Tripura traders get sanction to import 150 MT Hilsa this season from Bangladesh

The importers of Tripura have been sanctioned to trade at least 150 MT of Hilsa fish this year for the state ahead of the Sharad festival next month, sources in the state's Import-Export Association (IEA) said here on Friday.

Tripura gets its supply of Hilsa almost throughout the year from Bangladesh, even in the off-season.

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 the report, the first consignment of Hilsa, the king of fish, is expected to arrive at Akhaura Land Custom Station in 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 the supply of quality fish at an affordable price as well.

“At present, Hilsa fish is being sold at Rs 1200–1800 per kilogram at a retail market that includes silver Hilsa of Chandpur, the confluence of the River Padma and Meghna in south-central Bangladesh. The fishing activities of Hilsa are going to be closed by next fortnight, and thereafter, fresh Hilsa will dominate the markets, and obviously, the price will reduce,” stated an official of the IEA.

Despite an increase in commercial production of a few varieties of fish, Tripura is largely dependent on the fish found in the natural streams and rivers of Bangladesh during the monsoon and winter, besides Hilsa.

However, due to trade restrictions, the formal trade of fish between Tripura and Bangladesh is very limited, fishery officials said.

*Agency Report.