India's seafood exports get major boost as EU lists 102 new fishery units

In a boost for India's seafood industry, the European Union (EU) has listed 102 new Indian fishery establishments for export from India to EU member countries, thus marking a major step forward in enhancing market access for Indian seafood products, especially aquaculture shrimps and Cephalopods (squid, cuttle fish and octopus). The development is expected to enhance India's seafood exports to the EU, one of the most lucrative and quality-sensitive markets globally.

With the inclusion of these new establishments, exporters across various coastal states and UTs will now have greater opportunities to tap into EU demand, diversify their product offerings, and strengthen trade relationships, said the ministry.

The decision was taken after many meetings between EU members and the central government, in which Commerce Minister Shri Piyush Goyal and senior ministry officials participated. The decision comes as a result of confidence over India's robust official control mechanisms implemented by the Export Inspection Council (EIC). "Indian seafood exports meet stringent international standards, particularly those laid down by the EU," said the ministry.

Key highlights of the EU's latest decision:

1. In 2025, 102 new establishments added to the EU-approved list for fishery exports.

2. The latest decision reflects India's commitment to food safety, traceability, and compliance with EU regulations.

3. It strengthens India's position as a trusted supplier of high-quality seafood.

4. It is expected to boost export volumes, generate employment, and enhance foreign exchange earnings.

The Department of Commerce has also reiterated its commitment to supporting exporters through policy facilitation, infrastructure development, and capacity building.

India's annual fish production has witnessed a significant growth of 104%, rising from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY2013-14 to 195 lakh tonnes in FY 2024-25. Inland fisheries and aquaculture have emerged as key contributors, accounting for over 75% of the total production.

India exported 17.81 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of seafood during the financial year 2023–24. The total value of these exports was ₹60,523.89 crore, which is equivalent to $7.38 billion. This represents a slight increase in export volume compared to 17.35 lakh MT in 2022–23.

Frozen shrimp continued to be the most significant item in India’s seafood export basket. It earned ₹40,013.54 crore (US$4.88 billion), accounting for 40.19% of the total export quantity and 66.12% of the total earnings in dollar terms. In 2023–24, India exported 7.16 lakh MT of frozen shrimp.