Wed Sep 17 09:23:10 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Bangladesh has begun exporting Hilsa fish to India in anticipation of the Durga Puja festival. The first shipment of 32 tonnes, transported in eight trucks, has arrived at the border and is headed to Kolkata markets. The export of 1,200 tonnes was approved by Bangladesh for the festive season, with shipments taking place between September 16 and October 5. The fish are from the Padma River, and a one-kg Padma Hilsa is expected to cost around ₹1,800 in Kolkata. The export must comply with Bangladesh’s Export Policy 2024-27, setting a minimum export price of USD 12.5 per kg.
**News Article:**
**Hilsa from Bangladesh Arrives in India Ahead of Durga Puja Festivities**
**Kolkata, India – September 17, 2025** – The first consignment of Hilsa fish from Bangladesh has crossed the border into India today, bringing a wave of delight to fish lovers in Kolkata ahead of the Durga Puja celebrations. Eight trucks carrying approximately 32 tonnes of the prized fish, sourced from the Padma River, have reached the India-Bangladesh border and are en route to Kolkata’s wholesale markets.
This shipment marks the start of a period of increased trade between the two nations, with Bangladesh recently approving the export of 1,200 tonnes of Hilsa to India specifically for the festive season. The approved shipment window runs from September 16 to October 5.
“The consignment will arrive in Kolkata’s wholesale markets by Wednesday night,” said Syed Anwar Maqsood, Secretary of the Fish Importers’ Association. He added that a one-kg “Padma Hilsa” is expected to retail for around ₹1,800. “Now, almost daily, fish from Bangladesh will arrive in Kolkata markets.”
The Bangladeshi government has mandated that all shipments adhere to its Export Policy 2024-27, which stipulates a minimum export price of USD 12.5 per kg. The move is expected to boost trade ties between the two countries while satisfying the high demand for Hilsa during the festive period.
First Piper 