Finance and Commerce Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed stated that, according to the decision of higher authorities, hilsa fish is being exported to India in the country's interest.
He mentioned that the quantity of hilsa being exported is not even equivalent to one day's supply at Chandpur Ghat. The decision has been made after careful consideration. "Emotional debates are pointless," he added.
He made these remarks in response to questions from reporters at the secretariat on Sunday. The government has decided to export 3,000 tonnes of hilsa to India on the occasion of the upcoming Durga Puja.
It has been confirmed that hilsa will be exported to India. The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock clarified that the decision was made by the Ministry of Commerce, despite their objections. When journalists raised this point, the Advisor stated that the export of 3,000 tonnes had already been agreed upon.
Dr Salehuddin said, "We have friendly relations with India. There are commercial benefits to exporting hilsa, as it brings in foreign currency. If we do not export, it will be smuggled. The export of hilsa to India has been successful, and there is increasing interest in it."
He further noted, "There are also advantages from a commercial standpoint. Exporting will bring in some foreign currency. In fact, smuggling is happening here and there, and you're not gaining anything from it. So, it's all right, let them say what they will. Decisions should be made inclusively, and this one was made after much consideration. I've faced criticism for it, but the decision has been praised in many quarters."
There have been varied opinions from responsible parties, with some saying hilsa should not be sent. When reporters asked about this, the Advisor responded that while one responsible group opposed the export, a higher authority had approved it.
When asked whether the price of hilsa would rise in the domestic market due to exports to India, Salehuddin Ahmed said, "The traders raise the prices. Why should they increase? In any case, I believe the decision is in the best interest overall. Yes, some people are facing challenges, but I don't think it's a major issue. We aim to maintain good relations with our neighbours."
He added, "Their (Indian) onions are not coming at cheap prices. If that's the case, then agree not to eat their onions. These are emotional arguments and are irrelevant. They have reduced the duty on onions, and onions are being imported."
