BJSA demands raw jute export ban, enforcement of mandatory jute packaging 

The Bangladesh Jute Spinners Association (BJSA) on Saturday called for a ban on raw jute exports and the full enforcement of the mandatory jute packaging law.

The association raised the demand as exports of jute and jute goods continue to decline in the international market.

The decision came at the 464th board meeting of the association, held at its conference room in the city, chaired by BJSA Chairman Tapas Pramanik.

The meeting noted that while global demand for jute goods is falling, raw jute exports are making it harder for local mill owners to purchase raw jute at fair prices. Middlemen are also exacerbating the problem by hoarding raw jute during the harvesting season, creating an artificial crisis.

In addition, suspension of exports through Indian land ports and the imposition of anti-dumping duties on jute goods have placed the sector under further strain.

The meeting emphasised that since the government has identified four promising sectors—leather goods, jute goods, agricultural products, and pharmaceuticals—for special priority after Bangladesh’s graduation from LDC status, the jute sector must be developed with the highest priority.

The association stressed the need for speedy implementation of the ongoing initiative to declare jute goods as agro-processed products and to increase export incentives.

It also recommended that the committee formed under the Jute Directorate ensure fair pricing, timely payment, and steady supply of jute sacks, while fully enforcing the Jute Packaging Act 2010 so that supply and demand remain stable.

To resolve the issue of exports through land ports, BJSA and the Bangladesh Jute Mills Association (BJMA) agreed to jointly appeal to the relevant government authorities.

The meeting further expressed support for a complete ban on raw jute exports in the current context.

Speakers at the meeting said that strict enforcement of the law and a halt to raw jute exports would revitalise the jute industry and help restore export growth.