New Delhi: Amid growing tensions with Bangladesh, India has imposed a ban on the import of specific jute products and woven fabrics from its neighbour through all land routes.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) announced that these items will now only be allowed entry through the Nhava Sheva seaport in Maharashtra.
The restricted items include jute products, flax tow and waste, single and multiple yarns of jute, bast fibres, and various woven fabrics made of jute.
The DGFT clarified that these restrictions do not affect Bangladeshi goods transiting through India to Nepal or Bhutan, though re-exports of these goods to India via these countries are prohibited.
This decision marks the third instance of trade curtailment with Bangladesh in recent months.
On May 17, India restricted imports of ready-made garments and processed food items from Bangladesh to specific ports.
Prior to that, on April 9, the government withdrew transshipment facilities previously granted to Bangladesh for exports to the Middle East and Europe, with exceptions for Nepal and Bhutan.
Rising Diplomatic Tensions
The latest trade curbs come amid strained relations following controversial comments by Bangladesh’s interim head of government, Muhammad Yunus, during a recent visit to China.
Yunus’ remarks, criticized by Indian political leaders, coupled with concerns over attacks on religious minorities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus, have further strained ties.
India has also voiced apprehensions about Bangladesh’s growing diplomatic closeness with China and Pakistan.
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A parliamentary committee recently discussed these issues, highlighting the implications for regional stability.
Trade Dynamics and Competition
Bangladesh is a key competitor to India in the textile industry. Despite bilateral trade between the two nations reaching $12.9 billion in 2023-24—with India exporting goods worth $11.46 billion and importing $2 billion—trade relations have been overshadowed by political and diplomatic challenges.
