Local jute spinners have called on the Bangladesh government to take urgent action following India’s imposition of anti-dumping duties on jute products. They also demanded restrictions on raw jute exports to support local industry growth.
Bangladesh Jute Spinners Association (BJSA) raised these concerns at a stakeholder meeting with the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission (BTTC), attended by BTTC Chairman Dr. Mainul Khan and FBCCI Administrator Md. Hafizur Rahman. The discussion focused on India’s duties, recognition of jute products as agricultural goods, tax challenges, loan access difficulties, and the need for better jute seed supply.
India imposed anti-dumping duties in 2017, citing unfair pricing and market distortion. This move significantly impacted Bangladesh’s jute exports, reducing earnings and threatening thousands of jobs. Despite repeated diplomatic efforts, the restrictions remain in place, limiting trade and hurting regional economic cooperation.
Industry leaders urged policy reforms and diplomatic engagement with India to seek the removal of duties. They also called for comprehensive domestic reforms to support jute sector growth.
Bangladesh’s jute and jute goods exports have declined, dropping from $1.16 billion in FY’21 to $855 million in FY’24. Jute yarns account for 58% of these exports.
Dr. Mainul Khan emphasized the need for collective efforts from both government and private sectors to address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of the jute industry.
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