Bengal traders push to stop Bangladeshi fish imports, cite ample local supply

West Bengal traders have demanded a halt to fish imports from Bangladesh, stating that domestic fish production is sufficient to meet India’s needs. India currently imports approximately 18-20 metric tons of fish daily from Bangladesh. This includes hilsa, pabda, parshe, tengra, and vetki. Traders argue that local production and alternate import sources are enough to sustain the market without reliance on Bangladeshi fish.

India’s domestic fish industry produces a wide variety of freshwater and marine species. In addition to its local supply, India imports hilsa from Myanmar to meet demand, particularly in West Bengal, where the fish is a staple. Traders have noted that reducing imports could minimize costs and streamline domestic market operations.

Bangladesh, a major exporter of fish, earns substantial foreign revenue through this trade. Hilsa, a high-demand species, constitutes a significant portion of these exports. Along with other varieties like pabda and vetki, Bangladeshi fish exports to India generate millions annually for its economy. India, in turn, exports species like rohu, katla, and boal to Bangladesh, creating a mutual trade flow.

The volume of fish traded between the two countries underscores their economic interdependence. While Bangladeshi exports contribute to India’s fish supply, Indian exports help sustain markets in Bangladesh. The daily import and export of fish play a critical role in the economies of both nations, supporting millions involved in the fisheries and trade sectors.

Traders in West Bengal have emphasized that India’s fish markets can rely on domestic production and other import channels, such as Myanmar, without significantly affecting supply. The discussions around halting imports from Bangladesh have brought focus to the trade dynamics and the need for balanced market strategies in the fisheries sector.