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India’s marine exports surge 16% as new markets offset decline in US demand
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Wednesday, 26 November, 2025, 13 : 00 PM [IST]
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Our Bureau, New Delhi
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India’s marine exports recorded a strong 16% growth, driven by robust demand from emerging global markets that helped compensate for a slowdown in shipments to the United States, traditionally the country’s largest seafood buyer. The latest export trends highlight a strategic diversification by Indian exporters who are tapping into newer regions, reducing dependence on any single market.
Despite muted demand and pricing pressure in the US—largely due to high inventories, inflationary consumer behaviour, and tightening import controls—India’s exporters have expanded their reach across West Asia, Europe, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa, where appetite for Indian frozen shrimp, tuna, cuttlefish, and value-added products continues to rise.
Industry analysts say Southeast Asia and West Asia have emerged as standout growth drivers, with increased institutional buying from hotels, quick-service restaurants, and processing units. Markets like Vietnam, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and South Korea have shown strong traction, offering new opportunities for Indian seafood processors. Europe, despite economic uncertainties, has also expanded its share, especially for cephalopods and ready-to-cook products.
The growth in overall exports comes at a crucial time for the industry, which has been navigating challenges such as fluctuating farm-gate prices, logistics costs, stricter global testing norms, and climatic disruptions affecting aquaculture.
Frozen shrimp—India’s flagship marine export—continues to dominate the basket, though exporters are increasingly pushing diversification into scampi, black tiger shrimp, high-value tuna and ready-to-eat seafood, which have shown higher acceptance in non-traditional markets. The shift toward value-added products is also helping Indian companies secure better margins and reduce vulnerability to commodity price swings.
Government initiatives, including expanded marine clusters, quality-certification support, market access negotiations, and export incentives, have further strengthened the sector’s global competitiveness.
With new markets offsetting the US dip, industry stakeholders remain optimistic that marine exports will maintain momentum, especially with improving demand in Asia and renewed interest from European buyers. The sector expects continued growth through 2026, buoyed by diversification, value addition, and rising global preference for Indian seafood.
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