Bangladesh’s domestic textile industry, particularly the spinning sector, is facing a severe crisis due to unequal import advantages, according to industry leaders.At a high-level meeting held on 26 January 2026, the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) expressed deep concern over the rapid influx of duty-free imported yarn produced in neighboring countries with heavy government subsidies. These imports are entering the local market at significantly lower prices, creating market distortion and weakening domestic spinning mills.
BTMA President Shawkat Aziz Russell warned that all textile mills will remain closed from 1 February 2026 unless immediate corrective measures are taken. He stated that imported yarn is priced 30–35 cents per kilogram lower than locally produced yarn, making domestic production unsustainable.Industry data revealed that yarn imports from India increased by 137% year-on-year, forcing around 50 spinning mills to shut down, while another 50 mills remain at risk. Nearly 200,000 workers have reportedly lost their jobs due to the ongoing crisis.
BTMA urged the government to swiftly implement the Ministry of Commerce’s recommendation to exclude 10–30 count yarn from bonded warehouse facilities. Industry leaders emphasized that timely policy intervention is crucial to protect local investment, preserve employment, and ensure the sustainability of Bangladesh’s textile value chain.
