Surat Weavers Seek PM Modi’s Intervention Over Yarn Prices

SURAT: A sharp surge in polyester yarn prices has pushed Surat’s weaving sector deeper into distress, with the Sachin Weavers Welfare Association (Ring) writing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking urgent intervention against what it alleges is a yarn price cartel operated by a handful of spinners.

The association has demanded a probe into domestic polyester yarn prices and sought measures to make yarn available to thousands of weavers at international rates.

The association claimed polyester yarn prices have risen 35% to 40% since June 2026, while international prices remain significantly lower. It alleged that disrupted maritime routes and higher freight costs following the West Asia conflict are being exploited to keep domestic prices elevated.

For 50/36 Bright yarn, the association said the September international FOB price was around ₹141 per kg, against a domestic quote of about ₹152. However, imports become costlier after freight, customs duty and transportation, making domestic buyers dependent on local suppliers.

“The real issue lies hidden within the freight costs. A handful of spinners are exploiting the post-war surge in freight charges to artificially inflate local yarn prices,”  said Mayur Golwala, senior leader of the association in its representation.

The weavers have urged the Centre to investigate whether domestic manufacturers are maintaining unjustifiably high prices by taking advantage of reduced import competition.

The association also warned that the price disparity is hurting the competitiveness of Surat’s textile manufacturers and could undermine India’s textile export ambitions. The demand comes amid wider industry concerns over soaring yarn costs and production curbs in Surat.