India’s Seafood Exporters Meet to Boost Global Trade
The Department of Fisheries, part of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, recently hosted the Seafood Exporters Meet 2026 at Ambedkar Bhawan in New Delhi. The event brought together key figures including Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, and Minister of State Shri George Kurian. This gathering aimed to create a constructive dialogue between the government and industry participants, addressing critical challenges such as market access, pricing, and compliance requirements while exploring opportunities for expanding marine exports.
Emphasis on Growth and Compliance
Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh praised exporters for their significant contributions to India’s seafood export growth, which remains robust despite global market uncertainties. He attributed this success to strong performance in markets outside the United States. Minister Singh underscored the need for continuous market diversification and regulatory adherence, particularly related to antibiotic policies and traceability systems. He noted that operationalizing the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Rules through Access Passes will enable cooperative societies to boost inclusive growth in the fisheries sector.
Potential and Strategic Improvements
The minister highlighted the export potential of lucrative species like tuna, especially from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the EEZ, and international waters. He called for advancements in onboard handling, enhanced cold-chain logistics, better packaging methods, and value-added products to minimize post-harvest losses. Exporters were encouraged to aim for the ambitious ₹1 lakh crore export target while adopting a broader market approach, supported by institutions such as the Export Inspection Council (EIC), National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), and others.
Aiming for Sustainable Growth
Minister of State Shri George Kurian echoed the need to position fisheries as a high-value sector in line with the post-Budget strategy for 2026. He commended current exporters for their dedication and reiterated that rigorous compliance and an improved logistics framework are essential for sustaining the momentum of export growth.
Collective Strategies and Challenges
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Union Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, highlighted the importance of a focused market diversification strategy. He shared that diplomatic efforts involving ambassadors from approximately forty nations have produced promising responses, allowing for targeted product development, particularly in ready-to-cook seafood. Additionally, stakeholders were encouraged to strengthen their compliance and operational capabilities to enhance competitiveness and readiness for global markets.
Addressing Key Challenges
The Seafood Exporters Meet recognized several obstacles hampering export growth, including regulatory challenges, high compliance costs, and limitations in processing and logistics capacity. Stakeholders urged the need for more streamlined procedures for issuing Catch Certificates and granting permits for seaweed cultivation in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. They also emphasized the importance of supporting inland fisheries and mariculture on the western coast and tackling tariff and non-tariff barriers affecting market access.
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