Exporting hilsha fish will speed up country's economic growth

The interim government's Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has said that there is huge demand for hilsha fish in foreign countries. Farida Akhter further said that the government lays highest emphasis on fulfilling the domestic demand for hilsha fish as the first priority. If fishing Jatka trout can be stopped, a great deal of hilsha fish can be exported to foreign countries and Bangladesh thus can earn a lot of foreign currencies, according to Farida Akhter. The Adviser stated that strong initiatives have been taken to shut down factories that manufacture harmful fishing nets.

65.88% hilsha fish in Bangladesh is produced in Barishal division, Farida Akhter said. Bhola is the largest producer of hilsha fish in Barishal division, Farida Akhter informed on Tuesday (8 April 2025).

Farida Akhter said that the government is working on launching a specialized bank for the advancement of fisheries and livestock sectors. If a bank like this can be established, fisheries owners and cattle farmers will be able to borrow bank loans on flexible terms and conditions. Farida Akhter reminded everyone present at the event that Jatka Preservation Week will go on till 14 April 2025.  

Director General of Fisheries Division Dr. Md. Abdur Rauf presided over the program. Secretary to Fisheries and Livestock Ministry Md. Tofazzal Hossain spoke on the occasion as a special guest. Barishal Divisional Commissioner Md. Rayhan Kawser, Barishal Range Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Md. Monzur Morshed, Barishal Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md. Shafiqul Islam, Bangladesh Coast Guard Bhola Zonal Commander Captain Mohammad Imam Hasan and Chief Staff Officer of Bangladesh Navy in Khulna Region Captain M Zillur Rahman were present at the program.