(e)

There is a need to increase awareness of consumers regarding the advantage of jute over synthetics. A market promotion programme needs to be taken up in major consuming markets focusing on specific market segments. A proper interface needs to be built between consumers, traders and producers of jute products.

(f)

The PSCB decided to form a sub-committee with representatives from BJA, BJMA, BJRI, BJSA, IJIRA, IJMA and PJMA, to review and modify the existing standards and prepare draft international standards for raw jute, jute yarn, jute fabrics and jute geotextiles for wider consultations.

The PSCB decided to form a sub-committee with representative from IJMA as convenor and representatives of BJA, BJMA, BJMC, BJSA and PJMA as members to increase cooperation with buyers’/consumers’ organisations. Consumer associations from other countries could also be invited to strengthen such cooperation.

The PSCB decided to take necessary steps to compile a database of tariffs on Jute and Jute products and non-tariff barriers as well as logistic barriers relating to jute and jute products in different producing and importing countries. PSCB recommended to the Council to appeal to all importing countries to suitably remove /-and/or reduce tariffs and to remove non-tariff barriers on jute, jute products, jute machinery and spares.

The PSCB decided that Technical Textiles with particular focus on Geotextiles, should be the priority. Importance has to be given to formulate specifications of Geotextiles in consultation with consumers and workout a strategy for promotion and marketing of Jute Geotextiles in areas of soil erosion control, ago-plant mulching and rural road pavement construction. In addition, low cost packaging (jute bags) and agro-textiles should also get attention.