Bangladesh has resumed its export of Hilsa fish to India, allowing for the shipment of 3,000 tonnes ahead of the festive season.
Recently, 45 tonnes of this prized white-fleshed fish arrived in Kolkata, drawing hundreds of locals to the Howrah wholesale fish market. This export comes in response to the heightened demand during the Durga puja celebrations, a major Hindu festival celebrated in Kolkata, where Hilsa holds cultural significance.
Earlier in September, the interim government in Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, imposed a ban on Hilsa exports due to political turmoil. However, after negotiations and requests from Indian fish traders, the government lifted the ban to meet local demand.
The decision to export 3,000 tonnes aims to stabilise prices, which had skyrocketed from Rs 1,200 to Rs 2,000 per kilogram in India due to the previous ban, causing a significant impact on consumers. Fish sellers had also voiced concerns over rising pressures.
Mohammad Zeeshan Alam, a fish seller, spoke to AFP and said, "The ban has had a huge impact on business. Earlier, when fish used to come in large quantities, the prices were lower, so customers would buy in slightly larger amounts. Now, with limited supply and higher prices, only a few people are able to purchase."
Hilsa fish is a culinary favourite and an essential part of cultural traditions on both sides of the India-Bangladesh border. The fish, known as the national fish of Bangladesh, plays a pivotal role in trade and diplomacy between the two nations.
Chandan Kumar Mandal, another fish seller, said, "Every year, there used to be a demand for Hilsa from Bangladesh. Bangladeshi Hilsa is famous because there is a difference in taste compared to Indian Hilsa. However, this year, we didn't get Hilsa from Bangladesh, and even in India, there hasn't been much Hilsa this year." — WION
