# Faridpur Jute's GI Recognition Poised to Enhance Bangladesh's Global Market Position *The recognition of 'Faridpur Jute' as a Geographical Indication (GI) product is poised to significantly enhance Bangladesh's jute industry in the global market.* July 15, 2026 ยท Economy The recognition of 'Faridpur Jute' as a Geographical Indication (GI) product is expected to significantly elevate Bangladesh's jute industry in the global market, according to Agriculture Secretary Dr Rafiqul I. Mohamed. Speaking in an interview, Dr Mohamed highlighted that the GI recognition would establish the unique identity of Bangladesh's jute, significantly enhancing its brand value in the international market as global demand for environmentally friendly natural fibres rises. Jute holds a special place in Bangladesh's history, heritage, and economy. Once known as the country's 'golden fibre', it was a leading source of foreign exchange earnings. Although its importance waned due to changes in the global market and the rise of synthetic fibres, new opportunities have emerged with growing concerns over climate change, plastic pollution, and the increasing demand for eco-friendly products. Bangladesh currently exports 282 types of products globally, with jute and jute goods contributing significantly to the country's export earnings. In the 2024-25 fiscal year, Bangladesh earned $820.16 million from jute and jute product exports. A significant share of global export earnings from the jute sector belongs to Bangladesh, a source of national pride. Dr Mohamed emphasized that the harmful impacts of plastic and polythene are growing worldwide, leading to increased demand for jute as a completely natural, eco-friendly, and biodegradable fibre. This presents a major economic opportunity for Bangladesh. Various policy measures have been adopted to expand jute production, research, processing, and diversified uses. To ensure environmentally friendly packaging, the law mandating the use of jute packaging for 17 products, including fertiliser, sugar, paddy, and rice, remains in force. Incentive and subsidy programmes for jute farmers are also ongoing. During the 2024-25 fiscal year, around 692,000 hectares of land were cultivated with jute, producing about 1.427 million metric tonnes of raw jute. Effective international branding of high-quality jute could significantly increase the country's export earnings. Bangladeshi scientists were the first to decode the jute genome, showcasing the country's scientific capability. The Bangladesh Jute Research Institute (BJRI) has secured GI recognition for 'Faridpur Jute', marking a significant milestone. This recognition will strengthen the distinct identity of Bangladesh's jute in the international market and reinforce legal protection against counterfeit products. Dr Mohamed noted that GI recognition is not merely a certificate but an economic identity. It provides international recognition to the heritage, quality, and production characteristics of a specific region. As a result, farmers receive fair prices, entrepreneurs gain access to new markets, and local economies become stronger. The current government is implementing a multidimensional action plan to revitalise the jute sector, including increasing the use of jute fabric in government institutions and introducing jute yarn school bags for students. A permanent exhibition and sales centre displaying around 250 types of diversified jute products is operating at the Jute Diversification Promotion Centre in Tejgaon, Dhaka. The government is also working to increase cash incentives for export-oriented jute products and expand exports to international markets, including Europe. As global demand for environmentally friendly alternative products continues to rise, the international market for jute and jute goods is expected to expand significantly over the next few years. Dr Mohamed stressed the importance of research institutions, the Department of Agricultural Extension, farmers, and the private sector working in a coordinated manner to make the agricultural sector more competitive and sustainable. He emphasized that bringing every inch of land under cultivation, diversifying agricultural products, and increasing exports are among the current government's top priorities. The recognition of Faridpur Jute as a GI product is a significant step towards achieving these goals and enhancing Bangladesh's economic prospects in the global jute market. ## Sources - BSS --- Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/economy/gi-recognition-faridpur-jute-boost-global-market-prospects