Despite being peak season for Hilsa, the local markets in Barishal are experiencing a scarcity of Hilsa fish, resulting in both small and large Hilsa are being sold at high prices.
The consumers of the district, who are hopeful that the interim government's decision to stop Hilsa exports to India would lower prices, flocked to the markets, only to be disappointed by the steep prices. They alleged that a syndicate is manipulating the prices and calling on authorities to take swift action to control the price.
A market survey revealed that Hilsa weighing between 600 to 900 grams is being sold for Tk 1,500 to 1,525 per kg. Similarly, Hilsa weighing 1 kg is priced at Tk 1,650 per kg, 1,200 grams at Tk 1,800, and 500 grams at Tk 1,300.
However the consumers blamed the syndicates, wholesale and retail sellers claimed that there isn't enough Hilsa in the rivers and seas. This year, the fish landings are less than half of what they used to be, which is why prices haven't dropped significantly.
Barishal District Fish Wholesale Landing Center Owners' Association treasurer Md. Iyar Uddin Shikdar said, "For several days now, the number of Hilsa in river has been low, resulting in decreased supply. That's why prices are slightly higher than usual. Due to low pressure, the fishermen were idle for a while. But now, they’ve started going to the sea again. Once they return, the prices should drop significantly. However, he noted that the increased cost of fuel for the fishermen has also contributed to the high prices."
Amir Hossain, a fish and ice trader in Barishal, added, "Fishermen catch most of the fish, but the cost of fuel to bring them from Kuakata to Barishal is high. Due to the lower prices here, many fishermen have stopped coming, leading to higher fish prices and a significant decrease in ice sales."
Barishal District Fisheries Officer Ripon Kanti Ghosh assured that prices will drop once the sea fish arrive in the market. He also stated that market monitoring continues and strict action will be taken if anyone is found selling Hilsa at inflated prices.
