India’s seafood exports reached an all-time high volume in the fiscal year 2023-24, with 17,81,602 metric tonnes of marine products shipped, valued at ₹60,523 crore. Despite facing global market challenges, the country managed to export seafood worth $7.38 billion, demonstrating resilience and strong international demand. The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) attributes this success to the significant contributions from states like Andhra Pradesh.
MPEDA Chairman D.V. Swamy highlighted that frozen shrimp was the major export item, with 7,16,004 metric tonnes shipped during the fiscal year. The USA emerged as the largest importer of Indian seafood, accounting for 34.53% (worth $2,549.15 million), followed by China at 25.33% ($1,384.89 million) and Japan at 6.06%. Other key export items included frozen fish, squid, cuttlefish, octopus, lobster, and dried fish, which were shipped to countries like Japan, Canada, Thailand, Belgium, and Spain.
Andhra Pradesh played a pivotal role in this export boom, contributing approximately 32% of the total seafood exports. Farmers from Andhra Pradesh were instrumental in exporting to major markets such as the USA, China, the European Union, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. MPEDA Andhra Pradesh Region Joint Director A. Jeyabal emphasized that the state has been focusing on producing quality shrimp and value-added seafood products, which are in high demand overseas.
Training programs are being conducted for aqua farmers in Andhra Pradesh to enhance the quality and value of their products. Recently, experts from Vietnam provided training to young entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of quality and innovation in seafood production. These initiatives not only boost exports but also create employment opportunities and improve the livelihoods of local farmers.
Increasing seafood exports offers numerous benefits to India. It boosts foreign exchange earnings, supports the livelihoods of aqua farmers, and creates job opportunities in coastal regions. By focusing on value-added products, India can command higher prices in international markets, contributing to economic growth. Additionally, maintaining high standards in seafood production strengthens India’s reputation as a reliable exporter, potentially opening new markets and increasing demand.
With Andhra Pradesh leading the way, India is well-positioned to further enhance its seafood exports, benefiting both the local and national economies. By continuing to focus on quality, sustainability, and value addition, India can maintain its competitive edge in the global seafood market.
