Bangla hilsa flop show in Bengal markets
Times of India | 26 September 2025Vendors are instead turning to hilsa from Gujarat and Myanmar to retail at Gariahat, Lake, Maniktala and other markets across the city.
Speaking to TOI, Fish Importer's Association secretary Syed Anwar Maqsood expressed deep disappointment over Bangladesh hilsa, pointing out that less than 80 tonnes had reached the market with average kilo-size fish selling for Rs 1,900-Rs 2,000/kg in the Howrah wholesale market and then sold at Rs 2,200-Rs 2,500/kg in retail markets.
The odd fish sized 1.5 kg commanded a wholesale price of Rs 3,000/kg.
"Since Sept 21, no hilsa consignment has arrived from Bangladesh. Given the high price and lack of enthusiasm among customers, we too are not too enthused. The exorbitant price has turned it into a flop show this year," said Maqsood, who was instrumental in getting the fish from Bangladesh.
According to Kartick Chakraborty, secretary of the Petrapole Clearing Agent Staff Welfare Association, imports will ultimately depend on Indian buyers.
"Bangladesh may have allowed 1,200 tonnes, but consignments depend on importers' demand. In Bangladesh, hilsa costs 1 lakh taka/mon (40 kg), which works out to Rs 2,652 per kg. After conversion and adding customs, procedural and transport charges, the Indian market price comes close to Rs 2,000 per kg.
At this rate, especially towards the end of the season, genuine traders are losing interest as profits are slim," he said.
Vendors in various markets said the initial rush over Padma hilsa imports had fizzled out. Amar Das, a fish trader at Lake Market, said: "The high price of Bangladesh hilsa has drained customer enthusiasm."
Romesh Das, a fish trader at Gariahat market, added, "For the past three days, Bangla hilsa has completely disappeared from the markets. Instead, there is hilsa from Gujarat that is a lot more affordable."
