Raw jute prices have surged to an all-time high of Tk 4,000–4,300 per maund this harvesting season, driven by strong demand and stockpiling by middlemen. While farmers benefit from higher returns, over 180 jute factories face a raw material crisis.
Industry leaders warn that unsatisfactory production—estimated at 6.0 million bales against a demand of 6.5 million—and rising exports to India could push prices beyond the 2021 peak of Tk 6,200 per maund.
Bangladesh Jute Spinners Association (BJSA) has urged the government to consider an export ban to safeguard local mills. Exports of jute and jute goods have already been on a steady decline, falling to $820 million in FY25 from $1.16 billion in FY21.
