Dhaka, Feb. 9 -- A festive-like environment is prevailing almost everywhere as the traditional dried fish processing season has begun along the Cox's Bazar coastline marking enthusiasm and busyness of the workers involved in the burgeoning industry.

Industry insiders said local processors produce dried fish worth about Tk 40 billion (Tk 4,000 crore) in the coastal district every year.

As it is very tasty and nutritious, the dried fish produced here is in high demand among tourists and local people.

In addition to meeting the domestic demand, Cox's Bazar's dried fish is also exported to Hong Kong, Singapore, India, South Korea, the United States and Thailand.

People involved in the industry said there is a possibility of exporting drie...