Hilsa fish prices in Bangladesh have soared as exports to India fell to a seven-year low, officials said Tuesday. Prices jumped 28 to 52 percent from last year, rising by about $1.80 to $9 per kilogram depending on size.
Large hilsa now sell for up to $27 per kilogram in Dhaka markets.
The government imposed a three-week ban on catching, transporting, and selling hilsa from Oct. 4 to 25 to protect breeding fish. Exports to India plunged to just 145 tons, down from 1,699 tons in 2020–21, despite approval for 1,200 tons this year.
Fishermen say catches dropped 33 to 47 percent in July and August compared to last year, as environmental damage, high fuel costs, and poor river conditions reduced supply.
Consumer advocates accuse middlemen of inflating prices amid weak government monitoring.