Jute Sector Awaits Crucial Meeting as Raw Material Shortage Deepens
India’s jute industry is bracing for a vital meeting of the Essential Commodities Jute (ECJ) panel scheduled for June 3, as it grapples with a severe raw jute shortage and surging prices. The sector, particularly in West Bengal—the country’s jute hub—is hoping for policy relief to stabilize supply and ensure operational continuity.
The sharp rise in raw jute prices in recent months has forced several mills to scale back or halt production. Industry stakeholders point to the Jute Commissioner’s stock restrictions as a contributing factor, claiming they are worsening the crisis rather than offering a solution.
Mill owners and traders are urging the government to relax current regulations and enhance raw jute availability through improved stock management. With the jute industry supporting thousands of livelihoods in eastern India, the outcome of the ECJ meeting will be critical for the sector’s stability and the broader regional economy.