Why Has India Banned Jute Imports From Bangladesh? Rising Trade Tensions Explained

India on Monday announced an immediate ban on imports of select jute products and ropes from Bangladesh through all land border points, signaling increased trade restrictions amid worsening bilateral ties.

According to a notification issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), these imports will continue to be permitted only through the Nhava Sheva Seaport in Maharashtra.

The DGFT notification stated, “imports from Bangladesh shall not be allowed from any land port on the India-Bangladesh Border,” adding that “Import of certain goods from Bangladesh to India is regulated with immediate effect.”

Jute Products Affected With The Ban

The list of restricted items includes bleached and unbleached woven fabrics made of jute or other textile bast fibres, twine, cordage, rope of jute, as well as sacks and bags made of jute.

Also Reaad: When Will Bangladesh General Election Be Held? Poll Body Chief Provides Big Update

This move follows earlier restrictions imposed on June 27, when India prohibited imports of various jute products and woven fabrics from Bangladesh via land routes but allowed their entry solely through the Nhava Sheva port.

At that time, the restrictions covered items such as jute products, flax tow and waste, jute and other bast fibres, single flax yarn, single yarn of jute, multiple folded woven fabrics of flax, and unbleached woven jute fabrics.

Previous Trade Restrictions Against Bangladesh

India had announced similar trade curbs on imports from Bangladesh in April and May this year. On May 17, port restrictions were imposed on certain goods including ready-made garments and processed food products from Bangladesh.

Furthermore, on April 9, India revoked the transshipment facility it had earlier granted Bangladesh for exporting goods to the Middle East, Europe, and other regions, excluding Nepal and Bhutan.

India-Bangladesh Diplomatic Tensions

These escalating trade restrictions come amid strained diplomatic relations following controversial remarks by Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, during a visit to China. The comments triggered strong disapproval from New Delhi and drew sharp criticism across the Indian political spectrum.

Relations between the two countries have deteriorated significantly, especially due to perceived failures by Bangladesh to prevent attacks on minorities, notably Hindus.

In economic terms, Bangladesh remains a major competitor to India in the textile sector. Bilateral trade between the two nations reached USD 12.9 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24. During 2024-25, India’s exports to Bangladesh stood at USD 11.46 billion, while imports from Bangladesh amounted to USD 2 billion.

(With inputs from agencies)

Also Read: From Allies to Rivals? India Clamps Down on Bangladesh Imports