Chandpur, Sep 13 (V7N) – Despite being the peak season for hilsa, the supply at Chandpur’s fish market has fallen short of expectations, with only 400 to 500 maunds arriving daily at the wharf. Prices have surged by Tk 300–400 per kg in just four days, leaving buyers frustrated as the popular fish slips further out of reach.

During a visit to the Chandpur market, wholesale traders from across the country were seen competing with local buyers, creating a bustling yet tense atmosphere. Depending on size, hilsa weighing 500–800 grams is now selling for Tk 1,500–1,800 per kg, while fish over one kilogram fetches Tk 2,500–2,600 per kg.

Buyers complained that even though the market looks stocked, the rapid price hikes are making hilsa unaffordable. “What was expensive yesterday has suddenly become more costly today,” said one customer. Another added, “Even though there is fish in the market, the price is skyrocketing, and we are struggling to buy.”

Retailers attributed the price surge to increasing demand across the country and the start of exports, saying wholesalers were purchasing large quantities. “The export process has started, so big fish prices have doubled,” one trader claimed.

However, business leaders rejected fears that exports would harm domestic availability, arguing that overall supply remains low. Abdul Bari Jamadar, president of the Fisheries Traders Association, said: “The supply of fish is very low. This may have some impact on prices, but I don’t think exports will affect the market significantly.”

END/SMA/AJ