The capture fish stakeholders of Kishorganj, Bangladesh, face significant challenges, including fish quality deterioration within hours of capture, small boats with low-power engines that delay market arrival, and increased operational costs due to leased fishing areas. Immediate improvements needed include extended market hours, well-equipped boats, access to loans for modern equipment, and alternative job opportunities during off-seasons.
Commission agents, who sell fish on a commission basis, also encounter difficulties. These include the challenge of recovering dadon (advance) loans from fishermen and maintaining fish quality before it reaches customers. Agents use salt or sugar for short-term preservation and cold water or ice for longer storage, but better infrastructure is essential. This includes improved roads, dam , drainage systems, and electricity, as well as enhanced storage facilities to maintain fish quality over extended periods.
Wholesalers, responsible for selling fish in local markets, deal with fluctuating prices due to supply and demand changes and must cover operating costs, including commissions and laborers’ fees. To support this vital sector, technological integration is crucial, such as modern boats, advanced transportation, and improved storage methods. Financial support through easy-term loans, training for better fishing and business practices, and emergency response systems can empower all stakeholders. By addressing these challenges and leveraging technology, Kishorganj’s fisheries sector can achieve sustainability and profitability, significantly contributing to Bangladesh’s economic growth.