Government Urges Seafood Exporters to Tap New Markets Amid Higher US Duties

The United States has raised tariffs on certain Indian goods, including seafood, from 25% to as high as 50%, as per the news reports. This is expected to affect exports of shrimp and other fish varieties to the US, one of India’s key seafood markets.

Government Direction to Exporters

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh has asked exporters to identify and expand into other markets. He said there are opportunities in the EU, Japan, South Korea, the UK, Russia, Australia, West Asia, Southeast Asia and other regions.

Before entering new markets, the government has advised exporters to focus on value addition and improve packaging standards. Exporters have been encouraged to use the Fishery Infrastructure Development Fund to strengthen processing and packaging facilities.

MPEDA’s Involvement

As per the reports, the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) will meet exporters in 4 major producing states. The discussions will focus on identifying suitable fish varieties for different markets, improving value addition, and upgrading processing capacity.

Industry Consultation

Over 50 exporters and representatives from major fish-producing states attended a meeting with the minister. Suggestions from the industry included proposals for the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to be considered by the 16th Finance Commission.

Read more: Imposing Tariffs Will Negatively Affect the US Economy More than India's: SBI Research!

High Seas Fishing Guidelines

The government has issued draft guidelines for fishing in high seas and Exclusive Economic Zones. Public comments have been invited within a month. The guidelines are aimed at expanding fishing activities, including tuna fishing in Lakshadweep and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Conclusion

The government is engaging with seafood exporters to address the impact of higher US tariffs by identifying new markets, improving processing standards, and expanding fishing activities under new guidelines.

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