Mohair outlook positive

Mohair South Africa achieved its highest income ever in 2000, achieved with production of over 50% less than in 1985, the 1980s boom year. Further details and comparisons are supplied. Predictions for 2001 were difficult with total mohair production on the decline through external factors. Expansion into new areas has been slow but efforts to influence small stock farmers to look at Angora goat farming will shortly be undertaken. Early signs during the 2001 summer selling season showed encouraging demand holding up. While the future remained positive the challenge would be to sustain this interest and improve the non-fashion use of mohair. The company is involved in pipeline partnerships and plans to extend these in the future. Closer co-operation between grower countries, South Africa and the USA will be explored. Heavy stock losses through inclement weather occurred in January 2001 which would have negative impacts on production but concentration would be on maintenance of production and fibre quality.