Illegal Fish Imports Cause Problems for Local Farmers in Kailali

Farmers Face Financial Struggles Due to Cheap Indian Fish

Local fish farmers in Kailali are facing difficulties because of illegally imported Indian fish entering through open border areas. The farmers say they cannot get fair prices for their locally produced fish due to the competition from cheaper Indian fish.

Lower Prices Hurt Local Business

Sanjay Chaudhary, a fish farmer from Kailari Rural Municipality-5 (Goberela), explained that even though there is a market for local fish, illegal imports from India have kept prices low. Local fish sell at wholesale prices of Rs 250 per kg and retail prices of Rs 300 per kg, while Indian fish are sold at Rs 220 (wholesale) and Rs 280 (retail). "Because imported fish are cheaper, we can't sell our fish at the rates we need," Chaudhary said. This has created financial and business challenges for local producers.

Long-Term Farmers Demand Stronger Border Controls

Naresh Shah, a fish farmer from Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City-2, complained that despite years of hard work, farmers are not getting fair returns on their investment. He stressed the need for stricter checks at border crossings to stop illegal fish imports. "We have been in this business for a long time, but without proper pricing, it’s becoming difficult to continue," Shah said.

Local Fish Farming Continues Despite Challenges

Chaudhary mentioned that he has built three ponds for fish farming, raising species like Common Carp, Grass Carp, Rohu, and Pangasius. However, without better price controls, sustaining the business remains tough. Farmers are urging authorities to take action against illegal imports to protect their livelihoods.