Hilsa returns to Khulna markets after 22-day ban

After a 22-day government-imposed fishing ban, hilsa (ilish) has made its return to markets in Khulna, though supplies remain limited and prices high.

The ban, aimed at protecting mother hilsa and ensuring sustainable production, ended on October 25, after which fishermen resumed fishing and Khulna’s markets began receiving limited supplies, driving prices up.

On Sunday, modest quantities of hilsa arrived at several wholesale markets across the city, including Rupsa, Moylapota, Nirala, New Market, Khalishpur Chitrali, Daulatpur, Fulbari Gate, Shiromoni and Fultala.

Retailers reported that hilsa weighing around one kilogram was selling for Tk 3,000–3,200, while those weighing 700–900 grams were priced at Tk 1,800–2,000. Smaller hilsa, known as jakta, were selling for Tk 900–1,000 per kg.

Footfall remained low on the first day, largely due to high prices and limited availability. Retailers expect prices to stabilise once fishing activity increases and supply improves.

“Fishermen only resumed fishing on October 25. Once more hilsa are caught and transported, prices are expected to come down,” said a retailer at Rupsa market.

Sharing the hardship faced by fishermen during the ban, Hamidur Rahman, a local fisher, said the month-long halt had been very difficult, but they were now back at sea with hopes of a good catch.

Md Jahangir Alam, Khulna divisional director of the Department of Fisheries, said the ban had been strictly enforced across all four districts of the division to protect mother hilsa during the main breeding season.

Authorities remain optimistic that this year’s hilsa production will surpass that of last year, he added.