Bangladesh’s Hilsa Fish is Gaining International Popularity

Rubel Islam Tahdid, from Mawa (Munshiganj)

Due to the 65-day ban on fishing in the sea and the implementation of special programs for fish production, Bangladesh is now emerging as a global model. According to market stakeholders, Bangladesh ranks third globally in overall fish production and first in hilsa production.

Mawa, located on the banks of the Padma River in the Louhajong Upazila of Munshiganj, has become famous for its fish markets, particularly for hilsa. The area, which is also home to a ferry ghat, has gained popularity among tourists who come to enjoy river cruises and indulge in hilsa delicacies. Several restaurants line the banks, offering local dishes.

Mawa ghat has become a popular spot for one-day trips due to its scenic charm and proximity to Dhaka. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbank, watching the shimmering waters, or take a boat ride to witness the breathtaking sunset on the Padma River. The combination of warm rice and hilsa fish from the Padma is a delicacy that is hard to beat. For an added adventure, tourists can take a speedboat ride for just 150 BDT to cross the river.

The main product of the Mawa fish market is hilsa, and its demand continues to rise both locally and internationally. As hilsa fishing has become a lucrative business in the region, fishermen from areas like Louhajong, Shrinagar, Munshiganj, Shariatpur, Madaripur, and Chandpur are earning substantial incomes. The hilsa produced in the Padma-Megna river region is highly valued for its unique taste.

As the hilsa fishing ban ended on November 4th, after a 22-day hiatus, fishermen resumed their work. However, this year, they are facing challenges due to lower fish catch. As a result, hilsa is being sold at much higher prices than usual. The fish is being marketed across the country and exported internationally to countries like Singapore, Thailand, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Italy.

The Mawa fish market has been bustling with activity, especially between 5 AM and 8 AM. Established more than three decades ago, the market has become a wholesale hub for hilsa. Fish traders come from all over the country, as well as buyers from distant areas such as Dhaka. Moklessur Rahman, a local fish trader, mentions the high demand for Padma hilsa, but the supply is limited, leading to sky-high prices.

Fish traders and fishermen have also reported increased international orders for hilsa, although issues with the size and quality of the fish sometimes hinder fulfilling these orders. Despite the reduced catch this year, the export demand for hilsa is steadily growing.

According to fisheries officials, after the fishing ban was lifted, the fishermen are gradually seeing better catches. However, due to the spawning season, many hilsa have migrated to saltwater, resulting in a reduced catch in the Padma. Despite these challenges, the increased export demand for hilsa is keeping the industry profitable.

Experts confirm that Bangladesh is now the world leader in hilsa production, accounting for 75% of global output. With the growing demand and increasing production, experts believe that in the coming years, Bangladesh will be responsible for 80-90% of the world’s hilsa production. Over the past decade, hilsa production has nearly doubled, from 290,000 tons in 2007-08 to over 500,000 tons this year. As a result, Bangladesh is poised to become the top model for fish production globally.

In summary, the hilsa industry in Bangladesh is thriving, both domestically and internationally, with the country’s leading position in global hilsa production ensuring a bright future for the sector.

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