Indian Economy News

India’s Seafood Exports Cross US$ 7.68 billion, Reach All-Time High in the history of marine products exports from the country

India’s fisheries sector continues to play a crucial role in economic growth and livelihood generation, aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. The government has undertaken multiple initiatives to strengthen fisheries and boost seafood exports, including international round table conferences, investor meets in island regions, and the Seafood Exporters Meet 2026. These efforts have focused on value addition, sustainability, technology adoption, and expanding global market reach. Strategic steps such as approval of 211 new export establishments across markets like the EU, UK, China, Russia and Brazil, along with regulatory enhancements like the National Traceability Framework (2025), Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) compliance, and Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), have improved quality standards and export competitiveness. Continuous engagement with stakeholders and market diversification strategies has further strengthened India’s marine export ecosystem.

As a result, India’s seafood exports reached an all-time high of Rs. 72,325.82 crore (US$ 7.68 billion) in 2025-26, with export volumes touching 19.32 lakh metric tonnes. Frozen shrimp remained the dominant export category, contributing Rs. 47,973.13 crore (US$ 5.51 billion), accounting for over two-thirds of total export earnings. While the United States continued to be the largest importer with Rs. 21,750 crore (US$ 2.32 billion) in imports, exports to the US declined due to tariff impacts. However, this was offset by strong growth in alternative markets such as China, the European Union and Southeast Asia, which recorded significant increases in both value and volume. Other products like frozen fish, squid, cuttlefish and dried items also showed positive growth trends. Major ports including Vizag, JNPT, Kochi, Kolkata and Chennai contributed nearly 64% of total export value, highlighting their importance in the supply chain.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.