Indian Traders Appeal to Bangladesh for Hilsa Exports
What Happened
A Kolkata-based Fish Importers' Association has urged Bangladesh to lift its long-standing ban on exporting Hilsa, the prized fish popular in eastern India, ahead of Durga Puja. The association says it has imported Hilsa from Bangladesh since 1996 and argues that the limited one-month export window allowed during festive seasons since 2019 is insufficient. Bangladesh is reportedly considering the request.
Key Takeaways
Hilsa is not just a trade item but a cultural symbol across Bengal. Any relaxation of Bangladesh's export restrictions could boost supplies and ease prices during the festive season, when demand for the fish surges in West Bengal and other eastern states.