Bangladesh has decided to allow the export of 1,200 tonnes of hilsa fish, locally called ilish, to India ahead of Durga Puja, which is nearly half of what was permitted last year, according to Prothom Alo. In 2024, the country had cleared 2,420 tonnes for export, initially planned at 3,000 tonnes.

The Ministry of Commerce of Bangladesh has set the minimum export price at USD 12.50 per kilogram (around Rs 1,520). Exporters are required to submit fresh applications along with trade licenses, tax documents, and clearance from the Department of Fisheries by September 11. This year’s supply is capped at 1,200 tonnes, and exporters cannot transfer permits, exceed quotas, or subcontract shipments. Authorities also reserve the right to halt exports at any stage if necessary.

Hilsa is highly popular in West Bengal during the festive season. The wholesale price at the Howrah market is currently between Rs 1,400 and Rs 1,600 per kilogram. After crossing the Petrapole-Benapole border, the fish is distributed to various retail markets in and around Kolkata.

The export of hilsa has long been a gesture of goodwill between Bangladesh and India, often referred to as “hilsa diplomacy”, which aims to strengthen bilateral ties through cultural exchanges. The recent decision was made by Bangladesh's interim government, led by Mohammad Yunus, continuing the tradition initiated by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The move comes amid some tensions between New Delhi and Dhaka following Hasina’s ouster in August 2024.

Since July 2012, Bangladesh had banned the export of hilsa, but it has granted special permissions for exports to India during Durga Puja since 2019. Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, shared the news on X, saying, "Ilish coming! The Bangladesh Govt just decided to export the quintessential fish to India ahead of festival seasons, as a mark of enduring friendship."