India Imposes Curbs On Jute Imports From Bangladesh—All About It

India has banned jute imports from Bangladesh through land ports, expanding earlier restrictions on apparel imports.

According to a notification issued on 27 June 2025 by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, the ban applies to all land and seaports except the Nhava Sheva port in Mumbai.

As per a report by The Hindu, the move follows India’s concerns over the impact of dumped and subsidised jute products, especially yarn, fibre, and bags, from Bangladesh on its domestic jute sector.

Though anti-dumping duties were imposed earlier, the continued subsidies by the Bangladesh government have kept import volumes high, undermining local industries.

India has repeatedly flagged the issue with Dhaka, but only minor adjustments were made.

Bangladesh continues to promote exports of value-added jute goods.

The Indian jute sector—employing around four lakh workers in states like West Bengal, Bihar, and Assam—has seen farmer incomes fall due to artificially depressed prices.

The ban covers a range of products including flax tow, jute fibre, yarn waste, and unbleached woven jute fabrics.

While Bangladesh can continue exporting jute to Nepal and Bhutan, re-exports of those goods to India are now prohibited.

This decision follows India's earlier restriction on apparel imports from Bangladesh via land ports, including those on the India–Northeast border.

Officials stressed that unfair trade practices must not harm the livelihood of Indian workers and farmers. India also plans to prevent any attempts by Bangladesh to route jute exports through third countries to bypass the new rules.

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