Raw jute prices have risen sharply over the past few months, remaining well above the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 2025-26, raising concerns about availability among stakeholders. The Jute Commissioner has revised stock limits (originally notified on 20th March 2026) to ensure fair distribution, prevent hoarding and speculative practices, and stabilise jute supply across the industry.
Revised Raw Jute Stock Limits
- Raw Jute Balers with Baling Press (registered with Jute Commissioner Office): NIL– must sell entire quantity by 5th May 2026 with physical delivery completed by 15th May 2026.
- Other Stockists (unregistered balers, stockists without baling press): NIL
- Jute Mills/Processing Units: Maximum up to 45 days’ consumption equivalent as per current production rates.
Regulatory & Compliance Instructions
- All stocking entities must declare and update jute stock positions fortnightly on the Jute SMART portal (jutecomm.gov.in/JuteSmart.html)
- Entities holding excess stocks must sell by 5th May 2026 and physically deliver by 15th May 2026
- Officials are authorised to inspect premises and records and seize excess stocks
- State Governments requested to assist in enforcement action against hoarders
Penal Provisions (Essential Commodities Act, 1955)
- Penalty for contravention: Under Section 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955
- Confiscation provisions: Under Section 6
- Penalty for false statements: Under Section 9