Indian Seafood Exports Surge Nearly 18% in April, Eyes $18 Billion Target by 2030

 India’s seafood industry has started the new fiscal year with remarkable strength, recording a sharp 17.81% increase in exports in April 2025, reaching a value of $0.58 billion. This robust performance builds on a record-breaking previous year and signals sustained momentum despite global trade uncertainties. According to data from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India solidified its position as the fourth-largest global producer of marine products in the financial year 2024-25. The country exported 1.685 million metric tonnes of seafood, valued at $7.2 billion. This represents a significant 60% increase in volume compared to the fiscal year 2014-15. The impressive growth trajectory continues even as the industry navigates concerns over potential tariff hikes in the United States, which remains India’s largest market. However, optimism is being buoyed by progress in a bilateral trade agreement between India and the US, which is aimed at strengthening trade flows. Frozen shrimp continues to be the star performer, accounting for over 40% of the total export quantity and a dominant 66.12% of the total export value. India’s seafood now reaches 130 countries, a significant expansion from 105 destinations a decade ago, with the US and China as the primary importers. This export boom is being significantly powered by government initiatives, particularly the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). This central scheme, with an investment of ₹20,050 crore over five years, has been instrumental in enhancing the entire fisheries value chain. A senior official noted that the scheme supports everything from improved fish quality and disease management to the infusion of modern technology and traceability. Furthermore, substantial investments in post-harvest infrastructure, including cold chains, fishing harbours, and landing centres, have been critical in boosting India’s production and export capabilities. Looking ahead, the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) has set an ambitious target in its “Vision Document – 2030,” aiming for an export turnover of $18 billion (₹1.57 lakh crore). With strong government backing and a resilient industry, India is charting a course to become an even more formidable player in the global seafood market.