Tripura to import 150 MT hilsa from B’desh in festive season

Agartala: Tripura fishmongers have got approval to import at least 150 metric tonnes (MT) of hilsa fish this year for the state ahead of Sharad festival next month, sources in the Import-Export Association (IEA) of Tripura said here on Friday.Tripura gets the supply of hilsa almost throughout the year from Bangladesh even in the off seasons. The breeding period of hilsa in six districts of Bangladesh — Barisal, Chandpur, Laxmipur, Bhola, Shariatpur and Patuakhali is identified twice a year — March and April, and October and November when fishing activity is suspended.According to IEA sources, the first consignment of hilsa — the king of fish — is expected to arrive at Akhaura land custom station of Agartala on Saturday. The fish traders have proposed to bring about 10 MT per consignment of fresh hilsa weekly to cater to the demand in the local markets at a stable price, which will ensure the profit margin of the sellers and supply of quality fish at an affordable price as well.“At present, hilsa is being sold for Rs 1,200-1,800 per kg at a retail market that includes silver hilsa of Chandpur — the confluence of Padma and Meghna rivers in south-central Bangladesh. Fishing for hilsa will close by next fortnight and thereafter, fresh hilsa will dominate the markets and obviously, the price will come down,” stated an official of IEA.Despite an increase in commercial production of a few varieties of fish, Tripura is largely dependent on the fish found in natural streams and rivers of Bangladesh during the monsoon and winter, besides hilsa. But due to restrictions, formal trade of fish between Tripura and Bangladesh is very limited, fishery officials said here.

Hilsa floods mkt but worry over Bdesh no-fishing period

The first lot of hilsa fish from Bangladesh has arrived in Kolkata, India, generating excitement among customers despite high prices. However, the trade period for hilsa fish is expected to be shortened due to a ban on fishing in Bangladesh from October 12 to November 2. Fish vendors in Kolkata are satisfied with the quality of the current lot and anticipate an increase in demand. Fish importers have requested an extension of the export period to ensure that the cleared amount is actually traded.

4,000 tonnes of Bangladesh hilsa to hit markets over 40 days

The Bangladesh government has allowed the export of nearly 4,000 tonnes of hilsa fish to India over a 40-day period. This is the longest period granted for hilsa export since the ban was imposed in 2012. The first consignment of 60 tonnes is expected to reach Kolkata on Thursday. The permitted quantity is higher than last year's, but lower than in 2021. The market is ready for more fish as stocks in cold storage are depleted and the local catch has declined.

West Bengal: Slump in local supply, festive demand make hilsa pricier, rates cross Rs 2,000

The demand for hilsa fish in Kolkata has led to a shortage in supply, causing prices to rise. The fish is in high demand ahead of the Viswakarma Puja and 'Ranna Puja' festivals. Challenging weather conditions have hindered fresh catch, leading to a scarcity of local supply. Vendors are selling inferior variants from Gujarat and smuggled fish from Bangladesh, but these are expensive and not preferred by customers. Efforts have been made to import hilsa from Bangladesh, but availability before the festivals is uncertain.

Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, Location Guesser and Mini Crossword. Spread love this holiday season with these Christmas wishes, messages, and quotes.