Like lobster or prawn, crab fry is a delicacy that has won hearts for its rich, savory flavor and nutritional value. Over the past decade, crab dishes have gained immense popularity among locals and tourists alike in the upscale restaurants of Cox’s Bazar. As a result, the demand for crabs is skyrocketing every day in this coastal city.
A local crab seller shared insights: “Small crabs sell for Tk270 per kilogram, while larger ones fetch between Tk380 and Tk400 per kilogram. However, wholesale prices are relatively lower.”
Reports indicate that after hilsa, crabs are the second most exported seafood from Cox’s Bazar. The demand for soft-shell crabs is rising in international markets. To meet this growing demand, crab farming has become a flourishing enterprise in Cox’s Bazar. These soft-shell crabs are exported to various countries, generating hundreds of crores of Bangladeshi Taka annually.
Beyond foreign exchange earnings, the crab industry contributes significantly to employment generation, particularly for local youth. Inspired by the profitability of crab farming, more entrepreneurs are stepping into this sector.
As global demand continues to grow, Cox’s Bazar’s crabs are poised to play a pivotal role in the region’s economic development, securing its place as a major player in the seafood export industry.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
