Archive · 17 Jan 2026
IJMA Proposes Ban on Private Jute Trading
The Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA) has asked the government to stop private traders from selling raw jute after March 31, 2026.
They say prices have gone up too much, and there isn't enough jute for mills to use.
This has caused many mills to close or reduce production, leading to job losses for over 75,000 workers.
The IJMA wants traders to sell their jute to the government by March 31, so mills can get the jute they need.
This plan aims to stabilize prices and make sure there's enough jute for making bags for the next harvest season.
The Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA) has proposed a ban on private raw jute trading from April 1, 2026, to control prices and ensure availability.
Raw jute prices have surged to ₹13,000 per quintal, and stocks have declined by 1.25 lakh bales in December 2025 alone.
The crisis has led to mill shutdowns and job losses for over 75,000 workers.
The IJMA suggests that traders liquidate their stocks by March 31, 2026, and the remaining jute be tendered to the Jute Corporation of India (JCI).
The proposed framework aims to stabilize prices, ensure uninterrupted supply to mills, and secure jute bags for the Rabi Marketing Season 2026-27.
- Who
- Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA)
- What
- Proposed ban on private raw jute trading from April 1, 2026
- When
- Proposal made on January 17, 2026, with ban starting April 1, 2026
- Where
- India, primarily affecting jute mills and traders
- Why
- To control spiraling raw jute prices and ensure availability of the fiber for mills and the Rabi Marketing Season 2026-27
- Association
- Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA)
- Proposed Ban Start Date
- April 1, 2026
- Current Raw Jute Price
- ₹13,000 per quintal (South Bengal TDN-3 grade)
- Estimated Job Losses
- 75,000 workers
- Estimated Raw Jute Stocks with Traders
- 25-30 lakh bales (2025-26 crop)
- Proposed Stock Liquidation Deadline
- March 31, 2026
- Expected Mill Consumption by March 2026
- 12-15 lakh bales
- Expected Mill Stocks by March 2026
- 7 lakh bales
