Bangladesh has decided to allow the export of 1,200 tonnes of Hilsa fish to India ahead of the festive season, particularly Durga Puja. This decision comes with a set floor price of Rs 1,100 per kilogram. While this move is a gesture of goodwill and reflects the cultural ties between the two nations, it also represents a reduction in export volume compared to previous years.
In 2023, Bangladesh exported approximately 3,000 tonnes of Hilsa to India during the Durga Puja festival. This year's quota is almost half of what was permitted last year. Previously, in 2022, the initial clearance was for 3,000 tonnes, which was later revised to 2,420 tonnes. The reduction in export volume may be attributed to reduced Hilsa landings in Bangladesh this year.
The decision to permit Hilsa exports to India is conditional. The Bangladesh government has specified that interested exporters must submit their applications by September 11, 2025. These applications must include updated trade licenses, ERC certificates, income tax certificates, VAT certificates, sales contracts, licenses from the Department of Fisheries, and other pertinent documents. Furthermore, the government has set a minimum export price of $12.5 (Rs 1,100) per kilogram. Hilsa has been recognized as a geographical indication (GI) product of Bangladesh since 2017.
Bangladeshi Hilsa, especially that which is sourced from the Padma River, is highly sought after in West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat. The fish is integral to Bengali culture and cuisine, particularly during festivals like Durga Puja.
The export of Hilsa from Bangladesh to India has not always been consistent. There was a suspension of exports from 2012 to 2018. However, under the administration of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Hilsa exports were resumed as a gesture of goodwill, strengthening historical and commercial ties between the two countries. In 2023, nearly 3,950 tonnes of Hilsa were exported to India.
The recent reduction in Hilsa exports and the establishment of a floor price could have several implications. In India, particularly in West Bengal, where Hilsa is a cherished delicacy, the reduced supply may lead to higher prices. This could affect festive celebrations where Hilsa is traditionally consumed. To mitigate the impact of reduced imports from Bangladesh, Indian consumers and traders may explore alternative sources, such as Hilsa from Myanmar or other Indian states like Gujarat and Odisha. In fact, West Bengal is now reportedly receiving record supplies of Hilsa from Gujarat. Bharuch, Gujarat, has emerged as a significant Hilsa source, delivering a substantial quantity of the fish across India due to decreased production in West Bengal and absent imports from Bangladesh.
The decision to allow Hilsa exports also comes amidst other discussions between India and Bangladesh. A 14-member team from Bangladesh is in Delhi for a meeting of the Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) to discuss technical aspects of an agreement and joint flood forecasting systems. The Indo-Bangladesh Ganga Waters Agreement, signed in 1996, is also up for renewal next year.
