Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has secured its position as the foremost port for marine exports in India, boasting a commanding 26.36% share in the lucrative segment, according to recent data from the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA). In the fiscal year 2022-23, the port facilitated the smooth transit of 2.64 lakh metric tonnes of marine products valued at an impressive ₹16,877 crore.
Meanwhile, Krishnapatnam Port in Andhra Pradesh also made significant contributions, handling 18,832 metric tonnes of marine cargo valued at ₹1187.4 crores during the same period.
The success of Andhra Pradesh in seafood production and exports can be attributed to a confluence of factors, including robust government support, a steadfast commitment to quality products, adherence to stringent hygienic standards in packing areas, and proactive engagement through awareness campaigns and training sessions.
Central to Visakhapatnam’s prowess in marine exports is the concentration of a substantial number of marine product exporters, particularly those dealing in frozen shrimp. This strategic location has not only positioned the port as a preferred choice for exporters within Andhra Pradesh but has also garnered favour from neighbouring states such as Odisha.
Frozen shrimp continues to reign supreme as the leading item in India’s seafood export basket, commanding a significant share of 40.98% in quantity and a substantial 67.72% in total dollar earnings. Despite a marginal increase of 1.01% in rupee value, there was a slight downturn in Vannamei shrimp exports compared to the preceding year.
MPEDA Chairman D.V. Swamy underscored the resilience of India’s seafood export sector, noting that despite various challenges, the country managed to ship a staggering 17.36 lakh metric tons of seafood worth a formidable $8.09 billion during the fiscal year 2022-23.
The United States and China emerge as pivotal importers of India’s seafood, with frozen shrimp dominating the export landscape both in terms of quantity and value. This steadfast demand underscores the critical role layed by Visakhapatnam Port and other key players in sustaining India’s robust seafood export industry.
