Bangladesh has halted imports of hilsa fish from India through the Benapole land port after authorities cancelled the required no-objection certificates (NOCs), disrupting shipments at one of the key India-Bangladesh trade gateways.
The suspension has stopped hilsa consignments from entering Bangladesh through Benapole, affecting exporters and traders involved in the seasonal fish trade. Importers are required to secure the necessary clearances before consignments can be processed.
The move comes amid increased attention on hilsa trade between the two countries, particularly around Bangladesh’s domestic supply and seasonal demand. Benapole is a major land-based trade route between India and Bangladesh and handles a wide range of food and other commodities.
The cancellation of NOCs has created uncertainty for Indian exporters that had planned shipments to Bangladesh. Traders may face delays and additional logistics costs if the restrictions remain in place.
Hilsa, a highly valued fish in Bangladesh, has traditionally been an important commodity in bilateral trade during permitted export periods. Any disruption to cross-border movement can affect prices, availability and supply chains on both sides of the border.
Trade stakeholders are now awaiting further instructions from the relevant Bangladeshi authorities on whether fresh NOCs will be issued and when hilsa imports through Benapole can resume.