India Tightens Border Trade Rules, Jute Imports From Bangladesh Restricted To Sea Route Only

New Delhi: India has added more jute products to its list of banned imports from Bangladesh via land routes. These new rules apply with immediate effect, further tightening trade between the two countries as relations remain tense.

The newly banned products include bleached and unbleached woven jute fabrics, jute twine, ropes, and jute sacks and bags.

However, these items can still be imported through Nhava Sheva Seaport in Maharashtra, according to a notification issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

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No Entry Through Land Borders

The DGFT clearly stated that these jute goods from Bangladesh cannot be brought in through any land ports along the India-Bangladesh border.

"Imports from Bangladesh shall not be allowed from any land port on the India-Bangladesh Border," the order said.

Previous Import Restrictions

This is not the first time India has put restrictions on imports from Bangladesh.

On June 27, India banned several jute-related products via land routes, but allowed them through Nhava Sheva port.

In April and May, similar curbs were placed on other goods, including ready-made garments and processed foods.

On April 9, India withdrew a special transhipment facility it had earlier given to Bangladesh to send goods to Europe, the Middle East, and other places (except Nepal and Bhutan).

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Rising Political Tensions

These trade restrictions come at a time when political relations between India and Bangladesh are tense. The situation worsened after controversial comments were made by Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, during a visit to China.

The Indian government was not happy with his remarks, especially since they came amid rising attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh.

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Trade Snapshot

India-Bangladesh trade was worth USD 12.9 billion in 2023-24.

India exported goods worth USD 11.46 billion and imported goods worth USD 2 billion from Bangladesh in 2024-25.

Bangladesh is a strong competitor to India in the textile sector, especially in jute and garments.