New Delhi: India seafood exports have reached an all-time high of ₹72,000 crore in FY 2025–26, marking a major milestone for the country’s marine sector. According to official data released by the , India exported seafood worth ₹72,325.82 crore (USD 8.28 billion), with strong growth in volume and value.
This surge highlights India’s expanding global footprint and the growing demand for its marine products, especially frozen shrimp.
Details of India Seafood Exports Growth in FY 2025-26
India recorded its highest-ever seafood exports in FY 2025–26. The total export value stood at ₹72,325.82 crore, while export volume reached 19.32 lakh metric tonnes.
This growth reflects strong international demand and improved supply chain efficiency. The data was released by the , which monitors and promotes India’s seafood exports.
Frozen Shrimp Remains the Top Contributor
Frozen shrimp continued to dominate India’s seafood export basket.
- Export value: ₹47,973 crore (USD 5.51 billion)
- Contribution: Over two-thirds of total seafood exports
- Growth: 4.6% in volume and 6.35% in value
This shows that shrimp remains the backbone of India’s marine export industry, with strong global demand.
United States Still the Largest Market
The United States remained the top destination for Indian seafood exports.
- Imports value: USD 2.32 billion
- Decline: 19.8% in volume and 14.5% in value
The decline is mainly due to tariff-related challenges. However, India managed to offset this drop by expanding into other global markets.
India Seafood Exports: Strong Growth in Alternative Markets
India saw impressive growth in multiple international markets:
- China: +22.7% in value, +20.1% in volume
- European Union: +37.9% in value, +35.2% in volume
- Southeast Asia: +36.1% in value, +28.2% in volume
- Japan: +6.55% in value
- West Asia: Slight decline of 0.55%
This shift shows India’s success in diversifying export destinations and reducing dependence on a single market.
Product-Wise Export Performance
Several seafood categories performed well:
- Frozen fish, squid, and cuttlefish showed strong growth
- Dried items and live products gained momentum
- Chilled products saw a slight decline
- Surimi, fishmeal, and fish oil recorded improved performance
This balanced growth indicates a broader product demand across global markets.
Key Export Hubs Driving Growth
India’s seafood exports are supported by major ports:
- Visakhapatnam (Vizag)
- Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT)
- Kochi
- Kolkata
- Chennai
These ports together handled nearly 64% of total exports, highlighting their critical role in logistics and trade.
Read also: What Makes INS Arnala Special? Inside India’s First Home-Built Anti-Submarine Shallow Water Craft
