The Indian government has prohibited the export of raw human hair priced below $65 per kilogram, according to a notification issued on Monday by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). The new policy revises the raw human hair exports from ‘restricted’ to ‘prohibited,’ unless the Free on Board (FOB) value meets or exceeds the stipulated price threshold.
The decision follows concerns over the rampant smuggling of raw human hair to countries like Myanmar and China, which has been negatively impacting domestic industries and export markets. Smuggling activities have reportedly led to price distortions and supply chain disruptions, prompting the government to take stricter measures.
India is one of the largest suppliers of raw human hair, with West Bengal serving as the key hub, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. The country competes with major hair-exporting nations such as China, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Myanmar in the global market.
Raw human hair in India is primarily sourced from households and temples, catering to the international beauty and hair extension industry. The collection process includes two primary types: remy and non-remy hair. Remy hair, considered the highest quality, is obtained from temple donations, where devotees offer their hair as part of religious rituals. This type is particularly valued for making high-end wigs and hairpieces. In contrast, non-remy hair is gathered from household waste by local collectors and later sorted and sold to dealers.
During April-November of the current fiscal year, India’s raw human hair exports stood at $123.96 million, closely matching the $124 million recorded in 2023-24. Myanmar remains the primary export destination for this commodity.
The new ban is expected to curb illegal trade while supporting regulated exports at competitive prices, benefiting legitimate businesses and preserving India’s position in the global human hair market.
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