Staff Reporter | Dhaka | Tuesday, September 9, 2025
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head of Durga Puja, Bangladesh has approved the export of hilsa fish to neighboring India. However, this year the export volume has been cut in half compared to last year, limited to 1,200 tonnes. At the same time, the minimum export price has been set at ₹1,100 per kg (around USD 12.5).
Over the past few years, this export process, popularly known as “Hilsa Diplomacy,” has been viewed as a gesture of friendship between Bangladesh and India. Particularly during Durga Puja, sending hilsa to West Bengal was seen as a symbol of bilateral goodwill. But this year’s cutback has significantly reduced that practice.
Government officials claim the decision was made mainly to address domestic supply shortages and price control. Currently, the high price of hilsa in Bangladesh’s local market has put pressure on consumers, prompting authorities to slash the export volume.
Experts note that while exports have still been approved, the reduced quantity slightly alters the diplomatic message. They argue that hilsa is not just an economic resource but also a strategic tool in regional diplomacy. Therefore, this cut reflects both the balancing act of Bangladesh’s internal economic pressures and its external relations with India.
