JAPAN: Import of fabrics increased but fibers decreased

TOKYO: In all major categories of fabrics, Japan’s import increased during the first six months of 2005.

Cotton fabric imports increased 1.9 percent from year ago levels to 250.9 million square meters. Woven fabric imports increased 6.6 percent to 13.75 million square meters. Silk fabric imports grew 11.8 percent to 7.66 million square meters. Synthetic fabric imports posted year-on-year growth of 8.2 percent, reaching 26.75 million square meters.

However, all major categories of fibers import decreased. Silk yarn imports decreased 2.3 percent to 1,381 tons. Cotton yarn imports declined by 1.7 percent to 46,130 tons while synthetic fiber import dropped by 1.9 percent to 80,930 tons.