Fish availability, market conditions, and livelihood status of traders in a dry fish market in northern Bangladesh

Abstract

This study was conducted in a dry fish market (Saidpur City dry fish market) in northern Bangladesh from January 2023 to June 2023 to evaluate the marketing status, price variation of available dry fish species, and livelihood status of dry fish traders. A mixed-methods approach was used in this research, utilizing both qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys. Findings revealed that there were 17 different types of dry fish along with 5 types of semi-fermented and salted fish products in the market. The average price of dry fish in the market ranged from 3.67 to 4.59 USD/kg. Surma was the most expensive fish available in the Saidpur city dry fish market (4.59-9.17 USD/kg) while Baspata was the cheapest. The livelihood status of dry fish traders was found to be closely linked to market conditions. Their income levels varied significantly depending on the location and size of the market. It was found that 48% of the traders earned 1.83 to 4.59 USD/day, ¬ while 44% of retailers earned 4.59 to 9.17 USD per day. Only 8% of the traders had a daily income above 9.17 USD. In the present study, it was observed that 62% of retailers did not take any loans, while others borrowed from banks and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). About 58.33% of retailers did not have any alternative source of income and more than 50% of dry fish traders could not pass the primary level of education. This study identified both opportunities and challenges for the dry fish market. The major constraints faced by dry fish traders were a lack of credit facilities followed by high transportation costs and inadequate storage facilities.