Bangladesh hilsa glut drives down prices in Chandpur

Hilsa prices have fallen sharply in Chandpur as daily arrivals at Boro Station fish landing center climbed to about 200 to 250 maunds from 50 to 70 maunds in recent months.

Traders said 1-kilogram hilsa now sells for about Tk 2,500 (approximately $20.35), down from Tk 2,900-3,000 (approximately $23.61-$24.42) three days earlier. Prices have dropped by about Tk 400 (approximately $3.26) per kilogram. Conversions are based on a current rate of about Tk 122.85 per U.S. dollar.

Hilsa researcher Anisur Rahman said catches increased from Aug. 28 as fish entered peak season, adding that supplies could remain strong through October.

Despite recent glut, national production has declined. Department of Fisheries data show output fell to 512,000 metric tons in fiscal 2024-25 from 529,000 a year earlier and 571,000 in 2022-23.

Researchers cite rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, changing river flows, and degraded breeding grounds as growing threats.