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India Doubles Seafood Exports, Emerges as Global Fisheries Powerhouse

India has solidified its position as a major global player in fisheries and aquaculture, with the value of its seafood exports doubling over the past ten years. Government ministers outlined a strategy focused on sustainability, new regulations for traceability, and export-oriented growth, particularly in the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. The sector aims to boost exports to Rs 1 lakh crore, supported by strong recent growth of 21% in just seven months. The push was highlighted at an international conference attended by diplomats from 40 countries, emphasizing global partnerships.

Key Points: India's Global Fisheries Rise: Exports Double in a Decade

  • Seafood export values doubled in a decade
  • New National Traceability Framework for 2025
  • Focus on sustainable growth in island territories
  • Target to raise exports to Rs 1 lakh crore
2 min read

India emerges as major global fisheries and aquaculture player: Minister

India emerges as a top fisheries player, doubling seafood exports. Ministers highlight sustainable growth, new traceability rules, and a Rs 1 lakh crore export target.

"India has emerged as a major global fisheries and aquaculture player - Rajiv Ranjan Singh"

New Delhi, Jan 22

India has emerged as a major global fisheries and aquaculture player, backed by strong policies, processing capacity and logistics, with seafood export values doubling over the past decade, according to Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj.

He emphasised that India is strengthening compliance and transparency, through the National Framework on Traceability (2025), EEZ Rules (2025) and updated High Sea Fishing Guidelines (2025), with focus on sustainable, export‑oriented growth in the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands.

The minister also underlined cooperation opportunities in advanced aquaculture and mariculture technologies, processing, cold chains, vessel design, digital monitoring, joint R&D, technology transfer, climate resilience, sustainable fisheries management, trade expansion and private‑sector partnerships.

The minister was addressing a conference that witnessed participation from diplomats representing 40 countries, including Ambassadors, High Commissioners and other senior mission officials.

The event underscored the growing strength of India's international partnerships in the fisheries and seafood sector.

Climate change and ocean health, sustainability, responsible fisheries, technology transfer, green innovation, capacity building, supply‑chain development, and emerging domains such as ornamental fisheries and seaweed cultivation emerged as key pillars for enhanced collaboration.

According to Professor S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj, seafood is a vital source of nutrition, contributes significantly to global food security, generates large-scale employment, and strengthens national economies.

He underlined that the Department of Fisheries is adopting a comprehensive value-chain approach, from production to export to ensure the sector's sustainable development.

George Kurian, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Minority Affairs, highlighted India's rapid aquaculture growth, noting strong production gains and the Department's aspiration to raise seafood exports to Rs 1 lakh crore.

Kurian said that export values have risen by 21 per cent in the past seven months, reflecting robust sectoral momentum.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Great to see the focus on traceability and sustainability with the 2025 frameworks. Overfishing is a real concern. As a major player, India must lead by example in responsible fisheries management. The emphasis on climate resilience is also very timely.
R
Rohit P
Rs 1 lakh crore target for exports is ambitious but achievable! The 21% growth in 7 months is impressive. This sector can create so many jobs in coastal states. Need more cold chain infrastructure inland to reduce wastage.
S
Sarah B
Interesting read. The international partnerships with 40 countries are key. Technology transfer in mariculture and digital monitoring can be a game-changer. Hope the R&D leads to affordable tech for small-scale fishermen.
V
Vikram M
While the growth numbers are good, I hope the government ensures fair prices for the actual fishermen. Often the middlemen and exporters take the lion's share. The value-chain approach must include their welfare.
K
Kavya N
Seaweed cultivation and ornamental fisheries mentioned here are exciting new areas! Can be great for women's self-help groups in coastal villages. More power to our blue economy! 💪

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