After a 58-day fishing ban enforced by the government in the Bay of Bengal, the supply of hilsa in the southern coastal areas of Bangladesh is experiencing a significant increase. However, despite increased catches, retail prices remain stubbornly high, frustrating both consumers and stakeholders. In Barishal’s Port Road wholesale market, traders reported an influx of medium to large hilsa this past week. A 1-kg hilsa now sells for around Tk 2,100–2,200 per kg, down from last week’s price of nearly Tk 3,000. Smaller hilsa (600–700 grams) are retailing at Tk 1,600–1,700 per kg, compared to Tk 2,400–2,500 before the supply rise. While wholesale prices are gradually declining, the drop has not yet translated to lower retail prices. In key fishing hubs like Mohipur in Patuakhali and Patharghata in Barguna, hilsa prices have started to adjust. At Mohipur, 1-kg hilsa is trading at Tk 50,000–55,000 per maund (~37 kg), down from Tk 75,000–95,000 during peak scarcity. Nevertheless, at the level of the consumer, this decrease is hardly noticeable. Traders and consumers alike suspect that syndicate control and excessive middlemen are keeping prices artificially high. Several local administrations, including Chandpur’s, have requested the Fisheries Ministry to introduce fixed pricing at both wholesale and retail levels to ensure market stability and consumer protection. Despite pricing issues, the increased catch is seen as a positive sign for the health of hilsa stocks, which many attribute to the effectiveness of coordinated fishing bans by Bangladesh and India. Local fisheries officers report strong catches near Kuakata, Bhola, and Barguna, and expect further increases as monsoon conditions stabilize. However, challenges persist. Many trawlers remain docked due to rough seas and high fuel costs, which limits the full potential of the fishing season. Additionally, the rising cost of ice, transportation, and labor is impacting the supply chain and narrowing profit margins for fishers. Experts suggest that improving cold chain logistics, cracking down on market manipulation, and offering subsidies on fuel and fishing gear could help stabilize hilsa prices and benefit both producers and consumers. As the peak hilsa season runs through November, ensuring fair pricing, efficient supply chains, and sustainable fishing practices will be critical to making the most of this national delicacy both culturally and economically.
