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TL;DR
- Bangladesh’s interim government has banned hilsa fish exports to India ahead of Durga Puja, ending a long-standing tradition of sending the prized fish as a goodwill gesture.
- The export ban has led to rising prices and potential shortages in Indian markets, with Bangladeshi hilsa now selling for 2,200 to 2,400 rupees per kg in Delhi, up from 1,800 to 2,000 rupees a few months ago.
- Despite the official ban, some Bangladeshi hilsa is still reaching Indian markets through alternative routes, such as via Myanmar, contributing to the price increase.
- The ban marks a shift from former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s “hilsa diplomacy” policy, which allowed exports to India during festivals to maintain good relations.
Bangladesh’s interim government has imposed a ban on hilsa fish exports to India ahead of the upcoming Durga Puja festival, ending a long-standing tradition of sending the prized fish as a goodwill gesture. This decision has led to rising prices and potential shortages in Indian markets, particularly in West Bengal.
Farida Akhter, advisor to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, stated:
“We cannot allow ilish to be exported while our own people cannot buy them. This year, I have instructed the Ministry of Commerce to prevent any ilish exports to India during Durga Puja.”
The export ban marks a significant shift from previous years when Bangladesh, under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, allowed exports of 3,000 to 5,000 tonnes of hilsa annually around Durga Puja as a gesture of goodwill.
Impact on Indian markets:
The ban has already begun to affect hilsa prices in India. In Delhi’s CR Park Market-1, a fish seller reported that Bangladeshi hilsa weighing 1-1.3 kg is now selling for 2,200 to 2,400 rupees per kg, up from 1,800 to 2,000 rupees a few months ago.
Despite the official ban, some Bangladeshi hilsa is still making its way to Indian markets through alternative routes. Traders in Delhi mentioned that fish from Bangladesh is now coming via Myanmar, contributing to the price increase.
Reasons for the ban:
The interim government cited the need to prioritize domestic demand and control local prices as the primary reasons for the export ban. Bangladesh has been facing a scarcity of hilsa in recent months, with fishermen reporting poor catches due to rough weather conditions and increased fishing costs.
Historical context:
Bangladesh had previously banned hilsa exports from 2012 to 2020 due to rising domestic prices. However, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina made exceptions for India, particularly West Bengal, during festivals as part of her “hilsa diplomacy” to maintain good relations with India.
The current export ban represents a departure from this policy by the new interim government, potentially signaling a shift in Bangladesh’s approach to its relationship with India.
As Durga Puja approaches in October, Bengali communities in India, especially in West Bengal, may face challenges in procuring their traditional festive delicacy. The situation highlights the intricate connections between food, culture, and international relations in the region.
News Source: kalerkantho
