What are the CEC Taj Mahal curbs?

They are proposed restrictions based on pollution-score thresholds in the Taj Trapezium Zone, including a 10 km radius around the Taj Mahal. The measures could bar or tightly regulate many small units, especially leather-footwear and inlay craft facilities, until they meet stricter norms or obtain new permits.

How could this affect Canadian retailers and importers?

Canadian buyers sourcing from Agra may face production pauses, longer lead times, and documentation checks. Some SKUs could shift to other Indian clusters or to non-leather materials to meet audits. Expect tighter vendor selection, possible cost pressure, and the need for modest safety stock on seasonal assortments.

What is the CPCB pollution score and why is it important?

The CPCB pollution score classifies factories by environmental impact. Higher scores can limit operations or expansions. Under the CEC Taj Mahal curbs, stricter thresholds could move units into riskier categories, raising compliance costs and delays. Buyers use the score to assess supplier risk and decide on re-sourcing or dual-sourcing.

What should investors watch next?

Track India’s Supreme Court hearing on the CEC report, any transition windows, and final thresholds for the Taj Trapezium Zone. Watch supplier communications about audits and permitting. Early clarity helps forecast lead times, inventory needs, and margin effects for companies with exposure to Agra-linked footwear and craft supply chains.

Global Market Insights

February 18: CEC Taj Trapezium Curbs Threaten Agra MSMEs, Jobs

ByDanny Kontos February 18, 2026

The CEC Taj Mahal curbs could reshape manufacturing inside the Taj Trapezium Zone and stress Agra MSME jobs. India’s Supreme Court will soon hear a report proposing tighter pollution-score thresholds within a 10 km radius of the Taj. Thousands of leather-footwear and inlay craft units may face closures or new controls. For Canadian importers and investors, the issue raises supply risk, longer lead times, and ESG questions tied to CPCB pollution score classifications and compliance upgrades.