Dhaka, Oct. 12 -- Even with the government's recent restrictions on export of raw jute, the commodity has almost disappeared from local markets, leaving mills struggling to find supplies.

After prices surged sharply in August and September, the government imposed limits on raw jute exports following the main trading season.

Farmers had previously received fair prices -- Tk 3,400-3,700 per maund from August to mid-September -- but rates have now soared to Tk 4,300-4,500 per maund, according to the Directorate of Jute (DoJ).

This sudden price spike and market shortage is alarming for jute mills, which are ready to start production. Many factory owners describe the situation as the worst in years, with raw materials drying up despite it b...