Kolkata's markets are bustling with the highly anticipated arrival of the first consignment of Padma ilish from Bangladesh, just days before Durga Puja. The initial shipment of 37.46 tonnes crossed the Benapole-Petrapole land route late on Tuesday night, reaching city markets early on Thursday, where it sold out rapidly despite premium prices.
The export began late on Tuesday night after Bangladesh’s commerce ministry issued permits to 37 exporters to send hilsa to India. The total approved quantity for the period between September 16 and October 5 is 1,200 tonnes. The decision followed weeks of speculation over whether the hilsa would cross the border this year, given the political situation in Bangladesh and concerns over the declining catch in the Padma and Meghna rivers.
On Friday morning, hilsa weighing around one kilogram was, reportedly, being sold at roughly ₹1,800 per kilogram in Lake Market, Gariahat, and Manicktala markets. Larger fish, weighing more than 1.5 kilograms, were going for as much as ₹2,200 to ₹2,500 per kilogram.
This year, the export price of hilsa from Bangladesh has increased to $12.50 per kilogram from $10 last year. This hike, combined with transport costs, customs duties, and retailer margins, has pushed up the final consumer price in Kolkata.
Retailers believe that the peak buying will happen closer to Saptami and Ashtami as families begin planning their Puja feasts. "We are expecting lots of buyers during the weekend. Prices aren’t too high compared to last year, but it is still early in the season. The real rush starts a few days before Puja,” said a fish seller.
The arrival of Padma hilsa is also viewed as a gesture of trade diplomacy. Hilsa is a sensitive and prized commodity in Bangladesh, with exports often restricted to protect domestic supply. This year’s decision to allow exports, despite a lower catch, is being read as an attempt to maintain trade relations with India ahead of the festive season.
On the consumer side, the excitement was palpable. "Just like Durga Puja is an emotion for Bengalis, so is hilsa from the Padma. I had given up hope of getting Padma hilsa. But when I heard that hilsa would arrive before Puja, I was really happy. I’ll go to the market to buy one for pujas, said a buyer.
Also read: Hilsa diplomacy: B'desh to send 1,200 MT ahead of Durga puja
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