Govt allows 2,450 tonnes of hilsa export to India for Durga Puja

The government has allowed the export of 2,450 tonnes of hilsa to India on the occasion of Durga Puja.

In all, 49 fish exporters from Bangladesh have been allowed to export up to 50 tonnes of hilsa each by September 30.

The first consignment is expected to cross the Benapole-Petrapole border on September 6-7.

The Ministry of Commerce issued an order in this regard on Monday.

The export permits cannot be transferred to other companies or any kind of sub-contract is not allowed, according to the order.

Last year, Bangladesh allowed the export of 4,600 tonnes of hilsa in two phases.

The export of hilsa from Bangladesh has remained banned since 2012.

However, every year before Durga Puja, the government allows shipments of hilsa fish as a friendly gesture.

Bangladeshi hilsa is considered a highly sought-after delicacy in Kolkata, India, with increased demand during Durga Puja.