Increase in India's Seafood Exports to the UK Following CETA

India's main seafood exports to the UK at present consist of Vannamei shrimp, frozen squid, lobsters, frozen pomfret, and black tiger shrimp.

These items were previously subject to tariffs between 0% and 21.5%, which have now been eliminated, greatly enhancing cost competitiveness in the UK market.

Indian seafood now stands on the same level as Vietnam and Singapore, which have existing FTAs with the UK.

India accounts for only 2.25% of the UK’s $5.4 billion seafood import market.

Now that CETA is operational, industry forecasts indicate a 70% increase in marine exports to the UK in the near future.

India's Marine Food Sector

India ranks as the third-largest producer of fish and aquaculture.

It represents 8% of the overall global fish output.

India primarily comprises eight key fish-producing states: Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.

In 2024–25, India’s overall seafood exports totaled $7.38 billion, equating to 1.78 million metric tonnes.

Frozen shrimp continued to be the leading export, making up 66% of revenues with $4.88 billion.

India's seafood sector

India shipped marine products to 132 nations, showcasing its broad presence in the international seafood industry. The leading five destinations are: United States, China, Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand.

exports-by-major-market-2023-24

Government Programs to Promote Seafood Exports:

Infrastructure Progress: The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) provides support for improving processing facilities, setting up quality testing labs, and joining international trade exhibitions.

This improves the quality and competitiveness of Indian seafood offerings in international markets.

Aquaculture Assistance: This assistance entails the sharing of cutting-edge technologies and optimal practices to enhance output and efficiency.

Duty Decrease: In Budget 2024-25, the government has lowered import duties on key ingredients utilized in seafood feed.

Key reductions consist of the total elimination of tariffs on fish lipid oil, algal prime, crude fish oil, and pre-dust breading powder.

Moreover, import tariffs on krill meal, mineral and vitamin premixes, as well as prawn/shrimp and fish feed have been greatly reduced.

Export Incentives: The government has improved the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products (RoDTEP) program.

The refund rate for different seafood items has risen from 2.5% to 3.1% of the export value, with an elevated ceiling of Rs. 69 for each kilogram.

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): This key initiative seeks to modernize the fisheries industry by enhancing cold chain facilities, minimizing post-harvest losses, and boosting overall productivity.

Obstacles and current problems

Overfishing: Unsustainable practices and excessive catch limits endanger marine biodiversity and compromise long-term productivity.

Climate Change and Pollution: Increasing ocean temperatures, acidification, and coastal contamination are disturbing breeding patterns and reducing catch quantities.

Infrastructure and Export Challenges – Insufficient cold chain facilities, inadequate handling procedures, and strict international quality regulations hinder seafood exports.

Final thoughts

India's seafood sector has shown strong growth and adaptability in the last five years, greatly improving its status in the international market.

India has not only boosted its production and export quantities but also broadened its market access to 132 nations.

India's extensive production capabilities, skilled workforce, and enhanced traceability systems allow CETA to help Indian exporters capture a greater portion of the UK market and expand beyond conventional partners such as the US and China.