Bangladesh Suspends Hilsa Imports from India

Bangladesh has suspended imports of hilsa from India after its fisheries department revoked numerous no-objection certificates (NOCs) previously issued to importers. The decision followed a directive from the Department of Fisheries, which cited concerns about the potential mislabeling of Indian hilsa as local or Padma hilsa.

The fisheries department, in a letter signed by its acting director general, Md Khaled Kanak, stated that at least 103 NOCs were withdrawn, preventing shipments of Gujarat hilsa via the Benapole land port. This action has left Bangladeshi importers in a difficult position, as they had already purchased hilsa in India and now face the need to return it at a lower price.

Importers such as Syed Mahidul Haque Rubai and Ziaur Rahman reported significant financial losses due to the abrupt suspension. They noted that the imported hilsa, which was stored in warehouses across the border, would now have to be sold at reduced prices, with non-recoverable import costs adding to the burden.

Gujarati hilsa, which is leaner and has a higher roe content, is considered to have a more bitter taste than the Padma hilsa, which is prized for its fat content and distinctive oil. Despite Bangladesh being the world's largest producer of hilsa, including the Padma variant, its annual production has been declining for several years, leading to a rise in local hilsa prices.

The suspension of hilsa imports from India has also cast doubt on Bangladesh's potential exports of Padma hilsa to India. While the Padma hilsa is highly valued in West Bengal for its rich flavor and oil, exports to India have been limited to 'gift' shipments ahead of the Durga Puja, with no such shipment announced by the current government.