Hilsa (ilish) has made a limited return to markets in Khulna following the conclusion of the 22-day government-imposed fishing ban on October 25.
The ban was enforced to protect mother hilsa during their main breeding season and ensure sustainable production. While fishermen have resumed operations, the initial supply of the fish remains limited, resulting in high prices across wholesale markets, including Rupsa, Moylapota, and Khalishpur.
On Sunday, one-kilogram hilsa was selling for Tk 3,000–3,200, while medium-sized fish (700–900 grams) fetched Tk 1,800–2,000. Smaller hilsa, known as jakta, were priced at Tk 900–1,000 per kg. Retailers noted low customer traffic due to these prices but anticipate stabilization as fishing activity increases and supply improves.
Md Jahangir Alam, Khulna divisional director of the Department of Fisheries, confirmed the ban was strictly enforced across the division and expressed optimism that hilsa production this year will surpass last year’s output. Fishermen, having faced hardship during the month-long halt, are now back at sea hoping for a good catch.
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