Markets and Trade

What are JACKS?

Jute, abaca, coir, kenaf and sisal (JACKS) are natural fibres that have multiple end uses. Their versatility and environmentally friendly characteristics are strong advantages over synthetic fibres. JACKS-based products are a sustainable alternative to plastics. 

Commodity in focus

Production and export of jute, abaca, coir, kenaf and sisal (JACKS) contribute to sustainable development by fostering social, environmental and economic development in some of the poorest rural areas in the world. The positive effects of using JACKS-based products can help offset some of the negative environmental impacts associated with plastic production and disposal. 
Publications
02/09/2024

The Food and Agricultural Markets Analysis Team (FAMA), provides economic data and analysis on major agricultural raw materials, horticultural and tropical products.

28/06/2023

The Market and Policy Analysis of Raw Materials, Horticulture and Tropical Products Team (RAMHOT), provides economic data and analysis on major agricultural raw materials and tropical products, including hard fibres (abaca, coir and sisal), jute, kenaf and allied fibres. The tables contained in this document bring together governments’ replies to the latest questionnaires, supplemented by other data available to the Secretariat at 31 December 2022.

26/09/2022

The Market and Policy Analysis of Raw Materials, Horticulture and Tropical Products Team (RAMHOT), provides economic data and analysis on major agricultural raw materials and tropical products, including hard fibres (abaca, coir and sisal), jute, kenaf and allied fibres. The tables contained in this document bring together governments’ replies to the latest questionnaires, supplemented by other data available to the Secretariat at 31 December 2021.

 

 

Products made from jute require less energy and have a low carbon footprint compared to plastic products. Jute can play a major role in achieving sustainable environmental objectives for countries that strive to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. 

 Products made from jute require less energy and have a low carbon footprint compared to plastic products. Jute can play a major role in achieving sustainable environmental objectives for countries that strive to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
 Abaca waste materials are used as organic fertilizer.
 Coir geotextiles are durable, absorb water, resist sunlight, facilitate seed germination, and are 100 percent biodegradable.

 

 

 

JACKS fibres contribute to a global sustainable economy.

 

Demand for these fibres remains strong owing to their wide range of uses, from traditional, to commercial and industrial applications (fabrics, cordage, ropes, geotextiles, carpets, buffing cloth, specialty paper, binding material, and soft applications in the automotive industry). Demand is also influenced by the increasing awareness of the environmentally friendly properties of natural fibres and by a shift in consumer preferences towards more sustainable, recyclable and biodegradable products.

 

The JACKS market is stimulated by an increasing demand for value-added products, and further growth is expected following diversification and improved policies.