Cosmetics Industry in 1999     I. II. Distribution: There is no data available on distribution or consumption figures. We know only about the powder detergents: Totally some 285,000 tons of various light powder detergents (98% of total production) including 237,000 tons of normal and 47,000 tons of washing machine powder was distributed in 1999, indicating 5% growth compared to a year earlier. The powder is distributed throughout the country depending on the population, culture, demand and other factors in each province, as no certain distribution network has been defined by the Ministry of Commerce for this purpose. However the price of such products as listed in its tariff is determined by the "Organization for Supervising & Inspecting Pricing of Goods & Services". However, as the total production volume exceeds the scheduled level, with an efficient distribution practice, no shortage has been witnessed around the country and the prices are according to the approved rate.   III. Export: There is no figures in hand of export of sanitary and cosmetics products. However the following include some of the items: Some 6,524, 304, and 5,721 tons of shampoo, toothpaste and soap, with a total value of $7,989, were respectively exported in 1999 mostly to the Central Asian and Caucasian nations and the Persian Gulf littoral states. Excluding "Pars International Products Co." every single powder manufacturer took measures to export its products. Their total earning was US $11,760 indicating one percent fall compared to a year earlier. This earning was for 19,087 tons (19,057 tons of normal and 30 tons of washing machine powder) indicating 20% increase in volume. The plummeting trend of price continued due to smuggling and other factors such as emergence of new rivals and lack of appropriate marketing techniques. The price of Iran-made powders in Central Asia in 1999 was 50% below the actual export value. Presently the abundance of raw material and existence of the huge domestic and foreign market (in the neighboring states) has prepared the grounds for expansion of this industry in Iran. Only 50% of our potential production capacity is being used now.