2.5.11. LIGHT INDUSTRY PRODUCTS

Cloths from textile materials

In 2000, production increase in light industry indicated 39%, which is more than 6 times up from 1999. In 2000, production of suits increased by 29%, coats - by 26%, trousers – by 62%, and dresses and skirts – by 42%.

It should be mentioned that since production in garment industry is mainly based on the give-and-take raw materials, in 2000 export did exceed import. Nevertheless, this trend formed and strengthened in late 90s, and export/import money relationship in recent years steady indicated average weighted ratio of approximately 10. In 2000, over 90% of cloths were produced from give-and-take raw materials.

In 2000, total export turnover increased by 15% compared to 1999 and settled at some USD 305 mln. Export monthly dynamics in 1999-2000 is presented at figure 1.

Figure 1. Export dynamics, 1999-2000 (USD)

Regional export distribution of Ukrainian-made cloths from textile materials remained virtually the same. Like in 1999, in 2000 Germany was the largest partner of Ukraine. Its portion in export supplies of Ukrainian products made 50%. USA and France respectively contributed 14% and 9%. Like in previous years, UK, Italy, Netherlands, and Denmark were the most stable foreign trade partners of Ukraine.

In 2000, total import turnover reduced by 27% to some USD 24 mln. Monthly import dynamics of cloths from textile materials in 1999-2000 is presented at figure 2.

Fig. 2. Dynamics of import, 1999-2000 (USD)

Import distribution of cloths from textile materials somewhat wider compared to export distribution due to commodities of Chinese origin. The portion of Chinese commodities on the Ukrainian market id substantial and reached 15% in 2000. As well, Germany holds the leadership in import (25%). The portion of Italian-made products is 17%. Other regular importers to Ukraine are Russia, USA, Belgium, UK, France, Turkey, and Netherlands.

Knitwear

In 2000, knitwear industry reported increase both in production and export of domestically-made products. Export of knitwear increased by half compared to 1999 and accounted for about USD 55 mln. Export dynamics for 1999-2000 is presented at figure 3.

Fig.3 Export dynamics for knitwear in 1999-2000 (USD)

Export distribution in 2000 practically did not alter. Like in 1999, the largest foreign trade partners of Ukraine in export of knitwear are Germany (35%), Hungary (15%), and Denmark (15%). Italy and USA slightly weakened their presence.

Some 70% of Ukrainian production of knitwear is based on give-and-take raw materials. Increase in Ukrainian export of knitwear is foremost provided by enhanced competitiveness of the products.

In 2000, import of knitwear practically did not change compared to 1999 and ranged within USD 26-27 mln. Import dynamics for knitwear in 1999-2000 is shown at figure 4.

Fig.4. Import dynamic for knitwear (USD)

In 2000, import of knitwear from Hungary and Denmark increased to 28% and 16% respectively. Import from the USA did reduce (to 5%).