Minimum Export Price For Raw Human Hair Fixed At USD 65/Kg To Curb Illicit Trade

New Delhi, Feb 11 (KNN) The Indian government has instituted a comprehensive ban on the export of raw human hair priced below USD 65 per kilogram, according to a notification issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) on Monday. 

This measure represents a significant escalation from the export restrictions previously implemented in January 2022.

The policy revision comes in response to concerns regarding the illicit trafficking of raw human hair to neighboring countries, particularly Myanmar and China, which has adversely affected domestic industries and legitimate export channels. 

Under the new regulations, exports will be permitted only when the Free on Board (FOB) value meets or exceeds USD 65 per kilogram.

India's raw human hair industry maintains substantial operations across several states, with West Bengal serving as the primary hub, followed by significant activities in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. 

The sector faces robust competition from regional players including China, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Myanmar in the global market.

The industry sources its raw materials through two primary channels: religious establishments and household collections. 

Premium-grade remy hair, typically obtained from temple donations where devotees offer their hair as part of religious practices, is predominantly utilised in the production of high-quality hairpieces and wigs. 

Non-remy hair, collected as household waste by local aggregators in rural and urban areas, represents the secondary quality tier in the market.

Recent trade data indicates that the sector has maintained stable export performance, with shipments valued at USD 123.96 million during the April-November period of the current fiscal year, comparable to the previous year's total exports of USD 124 million. 

Myanmar continues to be the primary destination for these exports, highlighting the strategic importance of the new regulatory measures in maintaining market stability and protecting domestic industry interests.

(KNN Bureau)