In reverse flow, India exports 500 tonnes of hilsa to Bangladesh in two months: Fish traders

Kolkata, India recently exported approximately 500 tonnes of hilsa to Bangladesh, marking a shift from the usual trade flow of the fish between the neighboring nations according to traders in the industry. Further shipments of between 150-200 tonnes are anticipated in the forthcoming weeks, they noted.It follows reports of reduced hilsa production in Bangladesh this year, which has led its traders to seek India's assistance in meeting local demand for the popular fish.

The shipments have primarily originated from Gujarat and been transported via the Bharuch port, while some have also passed through the Howrah wholesale fish market in West Bengal, traders revealed.Bangladesh has never before imported hilsa from India, usually sending other species like boal, rohu, parse and tangra to the neighboring country.

This year, however, there is a shortfall of hilsa in Bangladesh, reported Syed Anwar Maqsood, secretary of the Howrah Wholesale Fish Importers Association. About 500 tonnes have been exported in the last two months, with an additional 150-200 tonnes slated for shipment in the upcoming weeks, according to the association official.The hilsa from Gujarat has limited demand in India due to its high egg (roe) content.

But this very quality makes it highly desirable for Bangladeshi buyers, particularly in Chattogram and Sylhet, where roe-filled hilsa is in great demand. Gujarat hilsa has a high roe count, which is highly prized in Bangladesh. Some of the imported hilsa are also being processed for export to overseas markets, while others are being dried and sold as salted hilsa in Bangladesh's domestic market, Maqsood explained.Traditionally, Bangladesh has been one of the world's largest producers of hilsa, contributing significantly to global production.

The fish is also a vital part of Bengali cultural and culinary traditions on both sides of the border. India has previously received hilsa consignments from Bangladesh ahead of Durga Puja. However, the fate of Padma river hilsa exports to India during this festive season remains uncertain.Last year, the Bangladesh government authorized the export of 1,200 tonnes of hilsa to India ahead of the festivities.

The latest development represents a reversal of the conventional trade flow, with India exporting hilsa to Bangladesh to help alleviate a domestic supply shortfall.