For Bengali palates, it's about fish fulfillment
Kolkata-based importers are intensifying pressure on Bangladesh to relax its hilsa export ban, especially ahead of Durga Puja. Despite permissions, tight deadlines and late approvals have consistently hindered the full export of the prized fish, leading to significant shortfalls.
Kolkata's connoisseurs of hilsa eagerly await the annual influx of their prized catch from Bangladesh, as the fish's peak season aligns with Durga Puja celebrations in the region. However, the limited export of hilsa from Bangladesh since 2012 has frustrated Indian importers, who have been pushing for more flexible regulations to satisfy the demand.
The hilsa, a seasonal wild-caught fish, is only available during the monsoon months when the fish migrate upstream to breed, enhancing its flavor and texture. Despite repeated requests, the Bangladeshi government has been unable to grant timely export permissions, often offering only 15-20 days to complete shipments. In the past, Bangladesh has granted special limited exports during Durga Puja, but the actual exports have consistently fallen far short of the permitted quantities.
This year, Indian importers are urging the Bangladeshi commerce secretary to issue export permissions specifically for established fish exporters, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Written by urgent.news from The Economic Times - Economy's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
