Govt, exporters discuss market access, diversification at Seafood Exporters Meet 2026

New Delhi: The Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying organised the Seafood Exporters Meet 2026 at Ambedkar Bhawan to deliberate on challenges and growth strategies for marine exports.

The meeting was attended by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Ministers of State Prof. S P Singh Baghel and George Kurian, and Union Fisheries Secretary Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi.

The platform enabled interaction between government and industry stakeholders on issues such as market access, pricing pressures, compliance requirements, value addition and export diversification, including expansion from island territories, the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and high seas.

Rajiv Ranjan Singh commended exporters for sustaining growth despite global uncertainties, noting that seafood exports have remained robust, driven largely by non-US markets. He stressed the need for continued diversification and strict adherence to regulatory norms, including antibiotic bans and traceability systems. He said EEZ Rules are being operationalised through access passes, with priority to cooperative societies.

Highlighting opportunities, Singh pointed to the export potential of high-value species like tuna from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and called for improved onboard handling, cold-chain infrastructure, packaging and value addition. He urged exporters to work towards the Rs 1 lakh crore export target, with support from institutions such as EIC, NCDC, NABARD and the Ministry of Food Processing Industries. Investments following a recent investors’ meet in the islands are expected to boost sea-cage culture, pearl farming and deep-sea fishing.

Minister of State George Kurian said efforts are underway to position fisheries as a high-value sector, emphasising compliance, certifications, logistics and value-chain development.

Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi said a focused market diversification strategy has been developed with MPEDA, EIC and the Department of Commerce, supported by diplomatic outreach to nearly 40 countries. He highlighted opportunities in ready-to-eat and value-added segments and said the Department will facilitate linkages between exporters and Indian Missions abroad.

Industry stakeholders flagged issues including tariff and non-tariff barriers, high compliance costs, processing gaps and logistics constraints, while seeking streamlined procedures and targeted support to boost exports.