Hilsa catches have increased in the Padma-Meghna confluence in Chandpur, with local fish markets seeing a higher supply in recent days. However, even in peak season, smaller fish dominate landings, while larger hilsa remain scarce. As a result, prices have eased slightly but remain beyond the reach of many consumers.
During a visit to the Chandpur fish market on Saturday, August 9, it was observed that over the past three days an average of 500 to 600 maunds of hilsa have been arriving daily, bringing a surge of activity to the docks. Hawkers, wholesalers, workers, and traders crowded the area, creating a bustling atmosphere.
Fish traders reported that most hilsa now weigh between 500 and 800 grams, with few exceeding one kilogram. This size shortage is keeping prices for larger fish high, while smaller fish are selling at lower but still elevated rates.
Despite being mid-season and supply improving, prices have not fallen significantly, drawing frustration from buyers. Many noted that increased supply should have led to more affordable prices. One customer said that while the price of one-kilogram hilsa had dropped from BDT 3,000 to BDT 2,500, it was still high. Smaller fish are selling for BDT 1,500 to BDT 2,000 per kilogram.
A local wholesaler said that although the season should bring more abundant catches, current arrivals remain limited. “Six hundred maunds a day is not much for this time of year, so prices are not dropping sharply,” he explained.
While hilsa are now coming in greater numbers, the market has yet to see full relief. Traders hope that if supply increases further in the coming week, prices will begin to stabilize.
