India's Hilsa Exports to Bangladesh Surge Amid Production Decline

Significant Hilsa Exports from India

Kolkata, Sep 14: In a notable shift, India has exported approximately 500 tonnes of hilsa to Bangladesh over the last two months, reversing the usual trade dynamics of this highly valued fish between the two nations.

This increase in exports is attributed to a reported decline in hilsa production in Bangladesh this year, leading local fish traders to seek supplies from India to satisfy the growing domestic demand.

A representative from the Howrah Wholesale Fish Importers' Association stated, "In the past two months, around 500 tonnes have been shipped, with an additional 150-200 tonnes expected in the upcoming weeks."

Historically, the trade has favored Bangladesh, which typically exports hilsa to India, especially before the Durga Puja festival.

The recent shipments have primarily originated from Gujarat, dispatched via Bharuch port, with some also passing through the Howrah wholesale fish market in West Bengal, according to traders.

Syed Anwar Maqsood, secretary of the Howrah Wholesale Fish Importers' Association, noted, "This is the first time Bangladesh is importing hilsa from India. We usually export fish varieties like boal, rohu, parse, and tangra to Bangladesh. This year, however, they are facing a hilsa shortage."

While hilsa from Gujarat has limited appeal in the Indian market due to its high roe content, this very characteristic makes it particularly desirable for Bangladeshi consumers, especially in regions like Chattogram and Sylhet, where roe-rich hilsa is highly sought after.

Maqsood added, "Gujarat hilsa is rich in roe, which is in high demand in Bangladesh. The roe is also being processed and re-exported to other countries."

Bangladeshi traders are processing some of the imported hilsa for international markets, while also drying and selling it as salted hilsa domestically, he explained.

Traditionally, Bangladesh is one of the largest producers of hilsa globally, contributing significantly to worldwide production.

Currently, there is uncertainty regarding the export of Padma river hilsa to India by Bangladesh during this festive season.

Last year, the Bangladeshi government authorized the export of 1,200 tonnes of hilsa to India ahead of the festive period.

This fish holds cultural and culinary significance for Bengali communities on both sides of the border.

The recent trade shift signifies a reversal in the traditional flow, with India stepping in to export hilsa to Bangladesh to help alleviate a domestic supply shortage.