India Targets $30 Billion Seafood Exports, Eyes Global Leadership in Marine Trade

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday urged the seafood industry to raise exports from the current USD 8.5 billion to USD 30 billion over the next five years , as India seeks to emerge as a global seafood export powerhouse .

Speaking at a national workshop on seafood exports, Goyal called for higher production, improved quality standards, and greater value addition to secure better prices in international markets. He stressed the need to reduce exports of raw shrimp, build global brands, and expand India's presence across overseas markets.

The minister noted that India's fisheries exports have grown by nearly 70 per cent , from USD 5 billion in 2013-14 to USD 8.5 billion in 2025-26. He added that nine free trade agreements signed with developed economies in recent years would provide greater market access for Indian seafood products.

India's marine product exports reached a record Rs 73,890.46 crore (USD 8.45 billion) in 2025-26, with export volumes of 19.72 lakh metric tonnes . Frozen shrimp remained the country's leading seafood export, while the United States and China continued to be the top destinations.

Fisheries Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh said efforts are underway to increase value addition and improve export infrastructure, particularly in inland states. He also indicated that the National Fisheries Board may soon open a regional office in Andhra Pradesh, India's largest seafood-producing state.

Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu said the government plans to expand the country's airport network to over 350 airports and strengthen cargo infrastructure to support exports.

The push reflects India's broader ambition to move up the global seafood value chain by exporting premium, processed, and branded marine products, positioning the country as a major player in international seafood trade.