According to sources, the Commerce Ministry would bring to the meeting a proposal to fix cotton exports to last year’s level. The textile industry wanted a complete export ban but the ministry was not in favour as it would go against the interests of farmers who are reaping better returns on high demand from exporters.

However, the apparel industry has claimed that it is losing out China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Vietnam and Cambodia on garment exports with domestic cotton prices rising to Rs 30,000 from Rs 19,000 a candy due to huge cotton exports.

Cotton is one of the four articles that contributed to the recent inflation growth with iron ore the other. On July 9, the CoS could not decide on ore export ban and authorised Revenue Secretary to examine the past trends and suggest a way out to improve iron ore availability.

The CoS will also consider a proposal to install conveyer belts and modern security scanning equipment for consignments on the Indian side at Attari Land Customs Station (LCS) to allow cement imports by road. Although Pakistan allows export of cement to India by road, Intelligence Bureau requirement for full scanning and technology limitation of scanners not being able to penetrate through dense cargo has blocked movement on trucks.

Two conveyer belts are proposed with truck parking and loading facility at zero point for quick disbursal, said sources.