128 THE RUBBER INDUSTRY 



achieved if improved methods of tapping, largely in- 

 creasing production without additional labour, can be 

 introduced ; by more systematic administration ; by 

 opening up the reserves of untouched trees ; by cheapen- 

 ing the price of living by a reduction in the charges on 

 imported foodstuffs ; and by diminution or abolition 

 of the export duties. 



By such means only is it possible for Brazil to meet 

 successfully the competition of the Orient in the world's 

 markets. That such reduced costs can be brought 

 about there is no doubt whatever, if the measures indi- 

 cated in detail elsewhere in this description of the 

 Brazilian rubber industry are adopted without undue 

 delay. 



