India sets its sights on scaling up seafood exports to ₹1 trillion within the next two years, aiming to enhance efficiency and diversify product offerings. Despite challenges, the nation has emerged as a leading shrimp exporter, securing a substantial 40% share in the US market, valued at $2.4 billion in 2022-23.
Addressing concerns raised by the Corporate Accountability Lab (CAL) regarding working conditions, a senior official asserts the adherence to world-class quality standards and regulatory compliance. All units are registered with regulatory bodies like the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), ensuring strict oversight.
Indian seafood production and processing systems undergo rigorous monitoring by regulatory agencies and international inspectors, including the US FDA and European Commission. Compliance with Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) standards ensures food safety, with a ban on pharmacologically active substances since 2002.
National regulations and monitoring mechanisms, such as the National Residue Control Plan and ELISA screening labs, are in place to prevent food safety hazards. The government has urged the Andhra Pradesh administration to investigate claims of poor working conditions, emphasizing the need to enhance local processing capabilities amidst approximately 100,000 shrimp farms in the state.
India’s commitment to upholding quality standards and ensuring worker welfare underscores its determination to bolster seafood exports while addressing challenges and fostering sustainable growth in the industry.
