Prospects Uncertain

December 24, 1966 Focus on Cotton Imports AS MOST varieties of new crop cotton are available about the new ceiling prices, the textile industry has now turned its attention to the prospects of cotton imports. Although the Union Commerce Minister has indicated the Government's intention to import at least 9.25 lakh bales of foreign cotton, not much has been since heard as to how and when the imports are going to be effected. Much will depend on how quickly the Government negotiates with the U S Department of Agriculture for P L 480 cotton imports. Serious efforts in this direction are expected some time in January. At the moment longer staple cotton prices are ruling very firm.