First Hilsa Consignment from Bangladesh Reaches India

Just ahead of Durga Puja 2025, Bangladesh has resumed its seasonal export of hilsa fish to India, but in its lowest volume since 2019. On September 17, 2025, the first consignment of around 32 tonnes arrived in West Bengal via the Petrapole border, marking the beginning of a restricted trade window approved by the Bangladesh government. Hilsa, often called the “Queen of Fish”, holds not only culinary but also cultural significance during Bengal’s biggest festival. However, this year’s reduced quota and tight shipment window have raised concerns among importers and consumers alike.

Bangladesh’s 2025 Hilsa Export Policy to India

The Bangladesh government recently approved the export of 1,200 metric tonnes (MT) of hilsa fish to India for the festive season. The consignment window has been fixed from September 16 to October 5, 2025, giving Indian importers less than three weeks to complete the trade.

• Total export allowed: 1,200 MT
• Shipment window: September 16 to October 5
• First consignment: ~32 tonnes (8 trucks)
• Entry point: Petrapole, North 24 Parganas
• Destination markets: Kolkata and nearby districts

According to Syed Anwar Maqsood, secretary of the Fish Importers Association in Kolkata, this is the lowest volume approved since 2019, raising doubts about availability and affordability in Indian markets.

Why Hilsa Is So Coveted

• Origin Matters: The Bangladeshi hilsa, especially from the Padma River, is widely considered superior in taste and texture compared to its Indian counterpart from the Hooghly River.
• Cultural Demand: In West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, hilsa is not just a delicacy but also part of ritualistic and celebratory meals, especially during Durga Puja.
• Limited Domestic Supply: Local production of premium-quality hilsa has declined, increasing dependence on imports.

Historical Context: India-Bangladesh Hilsa Diplomacy

• Since 2012, hilsa exports from Bangladesh to India have been seen as a goodwill gesture, often coinciding with major Indian festivals.
• The trade has been suspended and resumed intermittently depending on Bangladesh’s internal fish stock policies.
• In peak years, Bangladesh exported over 2,000 MT, making this year’s quota the lowest in at least six years.

Static Data

• First consignment arrival: September 17, 2025
• Entry point to India: Petrapole border, West Bengal
• Export quota for 2025: 1,200 metric tonnes
• Export window: September 16 – October 5, 2025
• Key origin river (Bangladesh): Padma River