How Are Seafood Exporters Adapting to Market Challenges from US Tariffs?
Synopsis
The seafood industry in India faces unprecedented challenges due to rising US tariffs. With calls for market diversification and innovation, stakeholders emphasize the need for urgent action to maintain export levels and competitiveness. Discover how the industry navigates these turbulent waters and strives for sustainable growth.
Key Takeaways
India's seafood exports to the US fell by nearly 6%.
Stakeholders are advocating for market diversification .
Technology integration is seen as vital for product innovation .
High-value seafood products like surimi are recommended for production.
Exclusive aquaculture zones could enhance competitiveness.
Kochi, Nov 5 (NationPress) The seafood sector in India is facing a significant challenge due to the recent increase in tariffs imposed by the US government. Stakeholders and policymakers are urgently advocating for market diversification, enhanced value addition, and innovation driven by technology to maintain export growth.
This critical issue was the focus of discussions at the Industry Meet, which took place alongside the fourth International Symposium on Marine Ecosystems (MECOS 4) hosted at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).
Dr. Ram Mohan, Director of the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), highlighted that India's seafood exports to the US, its primary market, experienced a decline of nearly 6 percent during the period of April to September 2025.
In contrast, exports to China, Vietnam, and Thailand have shown remarkable growth, indicating a gradual shift towards Asian markets. Dr. Mohan noted, “With the combination of anti-dumping and countervailing duties, the effective tariff has now reached 58.26 percent, significantly undermining India's competitiveness in its leading export market.”
Dr. George Ninan, Director of the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), stressed the necessity for innovation, stating that a technology-driven startup ecosystem that unites researchers, technologists, and industry leaders is essential for fostering product innovation and enhancing value.
The meeting recommended the reprocessing and manufacturing of high-value seafood items, such as breaded squid rings, surimi, and ready-to-eat fillets, to increase revenue. Currently, India's value-added seafood exports stand at $742 million, which is significantly lower than competitors like China, Thailand, Vietnam, Ecuador, and Indonesia.
Delegates emphasized the need for establishing exclusive aquaculture zones and expediting Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to restore global competitiveness.
A.J. Tharakan of the Seafood Exporters Association of India remarked, “The US has historically been India’s largest shrimp market, but the new tariff regime, combined with sustainability and traceability issues, has disrupted trade flows and negatively impacted export revenues.”
CMFRI Director Dr. Grinson George stated that the concerns raised by stakeholders, ranging from exporters to fish farmers and feed manufacturers, will be compiled into a policy roadmap resulting from the MECOS discussions.
The session was coordinated by Dr. Joe K. Kizhakudan.
Point of View
I believe the seafood industry's current challenges underscore the need for innovation and adaptation. The response from stakeholders reflects a proactive approach, prioritizing market diversification and value addition. This is crucial not just for economic stability but also for maintaining India's reputation in global seafood exports.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What impact do US tariffs have on India's seafood exports?
The recent hike in US tariffs has led to a nearly 6% decline in India's seafood exports to the US, prompting calls for market diversification and value addition.
Which markets are growing for Indian seafood?
Shipments to China, Vietnam, and Thailand have shown robust growth, indicating a shift in focus towards Asian markets.
What solutions are being proposed to tackle the challenges?
Recommendations include creating exclusive aquaculture zones, enhancing technology integration, and producing high-value seafood products.
How does India compare with other seafood exporting nations?
India's value-added seafood exports stand at $742 million, significantly lower than competitors like China, Thailand, and Vietnam.
What is the future outlook for India's seafood industry?
The industry is working towards regaining competitiveness through innovation and policy changes in response to tariff challenges.
