Non-traditional fish scale is turning into a profitable export item. In recent times, the country has also witnessed a rise in fish scale export earnings.
Md. Abdur Rouf, chief scientific officer of the Department of Fisheries told Bangladesh Post that a rise in export earnings from non-traditional fish scales has been witnessed in recent fiscal years. Even, though there is no project related to this item, it has been a dependable medium for many people in rural areas.
As per his data, in the recently concluded 2022-2023 fiscal year, a total of 3022 tonnes of fish scales were exported to different global destinations which earned Tk 40 crore. In the seven months of this fiscal year, 2874 tonnes of fish scale have been exported and earnings from this stood at Tk 80 crore.
This surge in export earnings underscores the untapped potential of fish scales as a valuable commodity. However, he has also said that the success and sustainability of this industry heavily depend on the active participation of the private sector.
A visit to different fish markets in the capital revealed a diverse range of fish scales being exported to countries such as Japan, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, and South Korea. Remarkably, these scales are utilized in the production of batteries, electrical appliances, artificial corneas, artificial bones,
medicines, as well as fish and chicken food. Additionally, they are used in the cosmetic industry, contributing to the creation of nail
polish and lipstick. The transformation is not limited to large-scale industries; even fishmongers at various levels are now actively engaged in preserving fish scales. Unlike in the past when these scales were discarded, they are now carefully collected and sold for Tk 70 per kilogram. The process involves collecting and storing scales from fishes of various sizes, followed by sun-drying to eliminate humidity.
The dried fish fibres are then meticulously packed and exported to different global destinations. Approximately 5 kg of fish scales are obtained from every 20 kg of fish.
However, those who are engaged in this commodity processing sought government support to take the potential to the next level.
When asked, Md Abdur Rouf, chief scientific officer of the Department of Fisheries replied that at present they do not have any specific plan for the fish scale.
