Can India Achieve Rs 1 Lakh Crore in Seafood Exports by 2030?
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Synopsis
India sets an ambitious target of reaching Rs 1 lakh crore in seafood exports by 2030. This determination comes with a robust framework for traceability and modernization in the fisheries sector, aiming to enhance competitiveness and sustainability.
Key Takeaways
- India's seafood export target of Rs 1 lakh crore by 2030.
- Introduction of traceability framework for better market access.
- Significant increase in fish production over the last decade.
- Focus on high-value seafood products for future exports.
- Sector supports millions of livelihoods and economic growth.
New Delhi, Nov 21 (NationPress) India has set a bold target to enhance seafood exports to Rs 1 lakh crore by 2030, as stated by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying on Friday.
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh addressed the World Fisheries Day 2025 celebration via a video message, with Ministers of State Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel and George Kurian attending the event in person.
The celebration highlighted a pivotal development for the sector with the unveiling of the National Framework on Traceability in Fisheries and Aquaculture 2025, alongside new guidelines and standard operating procedures designed to modernize and regulate the fisheries value chain.
In his speech, the Union Minister emphasized the significance of innovation, traceability, packaging, and brand-building in enhancing India’s competitiveness within global markets.
He called upon industry stakeholders to adopt certification standards and leverage Free Trade Agreements to penetrate new international markets.
The newly introduced traceability framework was described by him as a transformative reform that would enable fishers to secure better returns and elevate India's standing in the global seafood trade.
Minister of State George Kurian pointed out that India has doubled its fish production from 96 lakh tonnes to 195 lakh tonnes over the past decade, backed by investments of Rs 38,572 crores through initiatives like PMMSY.
In outlining the future strategy, he mentioned that by 2030, India aims for 30 percent of its seafood exports to originate from high-value and value-added products.
Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel stated that the fisheries sector supports the livelihoods of over 3 crore people and is pivotal for export-led growth.
He highlighted that GST reforms, digital advancements, and an increase in registered exporters have bolstered the ease of doing business and strengthened India’s seafood export ecosystem.
During the event, Fisheries Secretary Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi noted that India's seafood export volume reached 16.85 lakh tonnes in FY 2024–25, reflecting an 88 percent increase over the last decade.
He added that the government is prioritizing value addition, sustainability, regulatory compliance, and diversification to position India as a significant global seafood processing hub.
Moreover, he highlighted ecological sustainability initiatives, including studies on marine mammals and the implementation of Turtle Excluder Devices.
Point of View
I firmly believe that India’s strategic focus on increasing seafood exports not only promises economic growth but also elevates the livelihoods of millions, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and innovation in the fisheries sector.
NationPress
21/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the target for India's seafood exports by 2030?
India aims to achieve seafood exports worth Rs 1 lakh crore by the year 2030.
What initiatives have been introduced to support this goal?
The National Framework on Traceability in Fisheries and Aquaculture 2025 has been launched, along with new guidelines and standard operating procedures.
How much has India's fish production increased in the last decade?
India's fish production has increased from 96 lakh tonnes to 195 lakh tonnes over the past decade.
What percentage of seafood exports is targeted to be high-value products by 2030?
India aims for 30 percent of its seafood exports to come from high-value and value-added products by 2030.
How does the fisheries sector impact employment in India?
The fisheries sector supports the livelihoods of more than 3 crore people in India.
