Commercial Diversity and Market Dynamics of Dried Fish: Processing, Drying Duration, Pricing, and Marketing Systems in Cox’s Bazar’s Burmese Market, Bangladesh: Commercial Diversity and Market Dynamics of Dried Fish

Al Shahriar; Md. Khaled  Rahman; Md. Rakib  Hasan

doi:10.65869/sar.v5.i1.147

Authors

Al Shahriar Fisheries Management Officer, Nature ConservationManagement (NACOM), Cox`s Bazar, Bangladesh https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3370-6483
Md. Khaled Rahman Scientific Officer, Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI), Riverine Sub-station, Rangamati, Bangladesh https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8185-6366
Md. Rakib Hasan Senior Scientific Officer, Department of Fisheries (DoF), Ramna, Dhaka, Bangladesh https://orcid.org/0009-0004-9100-189X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65869/sar.v5.i1.147

Keywords:

Dried fish; market diversity; fish processing; price variation, marketing channel

Abstract

The Burmese dry fish market in Cox’s Bazar sadar is a traditional hub for a variety of dried fish products in coastal Bangladesh, playing a crucial role in local fisheries-based livelihoods and trade. This study offers a comprehensive review of commercial diversity, processing methods, drying times, pricing structures, and marketing channels based on a one-month field survey. Data were gathered from 15 retail shops through systematic observation and semi-structured interviews with experienced traders and shop owners. A total of 58 different dried fish products were documented, representing at least 24 scientifically identified taxa along with numerous market variants distinguished by size, processing level, and presentation form. Whole and near-whole products dominated the market, indicating limited post-harvest modification beyond initial preservation. Sun-drying was identified as the main processing technique, reflecting its low cost and reliance on suitable climatic conditions, while salt-curing was also widely employed to extend shelf life and improve product stability. Less common methods, including mechanical drying, premium processing, and fermentation, highlighted specialized products and higher value addition. Drying times varied significantly, from 1–2 days for quickly processed products to 120–150 days for fermented items such as puti shidol, illustrating species- and method-specific processing characteristics. Retail prices showed considerable variation (BDT 300–5,500 kg⁻¹), mainly determined by species type, product size, salting method, and perceived quality. The marketing system operated on multiple levels, involving fishermen, beparis, processors, wholesalers (aratdars), and retailers before reaching consumers, tourists, and regional traders. Overall, the market reflects a highly diverse, economically structured, and value-driven system influenced by biological, technological, and market factors. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for improving value chain efficiency, supporting sustainable fisheries-based livelihoods, and informing policy and market interventions to enhance the quality, profitability, and competitiveness of dried fish products in coastal Bangladesh.

Author Biography

Al Shahriar, Fisheries Management Officer, Nature ConservationManagement (NACOM), Cox`s Bazar, Bangladesh

Shahriar, Al is a Development Professional with 08 Years of Experience in Research and Development and Program/Project Management (Training, Communication, Knowledge Management, and Consulting Level Research) for Multiple Donor-Funded (Namely, European Union, USAID, Krishi Gobeshona Foundation, World Bank, etc.) Projects in Community Empowerment, Climate Change, Poverty, Microfinance, Women Empowerment, and Global Development. An Excellent Team Performer with The Capability of Delivering Under Tight Deadlines and Communicating with High-Level Stakeholders. Specializations Include Data Management, Training Delivery and Materials Development, Communication, Visibility and Knowledge Management, Training Need Analysis, Program Organization and Coordination, Conducting Assessments and Evaluations, Developing Frameworks, Performing Analysis, and Creating and Presenting Reports in a Stylized Manner.

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Commercial Diversity and Market Dynamics of Dried Fish: Processing, Drying Duration, Pricing, and Marketing Systems in Cox’s Bazar’s Burmese Market, Bangladesh