In a significant policy shift, the Government of India has lifted the moratorium on the registration of new fish meal and fish oil units after more than four years. This decision has been welcomed by manufacturers, exporters, and fisherfolk, who had been adversely affected by the moratorium.
Fish meal is a key protein source for aquaculture, poultry, and livestock, making it an essential component of food security. The industry primarily utilizes low-value, resistant fish species that are not preferred for human consumption but are abundant in Indian waters. These resources are converted into valuable protein products, supporting both the economy and sustainable food production. The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) took the decision to remove the moratorium following continuous appeals from trade and manufacturing bodies. During its 147th meeting, MPEDA reviewed the demands of the industry and decided to allow the registration of new fish meal and fish oil-producing units to increase the capacity of existing operations.
In addition to lifting the moratorium, MPEDA has announced the formation of a team to inspect the current capacity of units and establish uniform norms for future capacity enhancements.
The moratorium, which came into effect on January 1, 2020, was initially imposed to curb the over-exploitation of food fish resources. The decision was based on reports that excessive juvenile fishing for fishmeal and fish oil production was causing stagnation in the catches of commercially important species, posing a risk to the sustainability of food fish resources and threatening the livelihoods of fisherfolk. The industry had expressed concerns that the moratorium would severely impact India’s position as the world’s third-largest producer and exporter of fish meal. The Indian Marine Ingredients Association (IMIA) has since praised MPEDA’s decision to lift the moratorium, viewing it as a crucial step toward revitalizing the industry while balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.
“This pivotal move is set to revitalize the industry and ensure a sustainable future for India’s fishing and aquaculture sectors,” said Mohamed Dawood Sait, President of IMIA. He also noted that the decision would help address illegal production and regulate unethical practices within the fish meal and fish oil industry.
Source: The New Indian Express
