India’s seafood exports reached an all-time high of ₹73,890.46 crore (USD 8.46 billion) in FY 2025–26, with export volumes touching a record 19.72 lakh metric tonnes (MT), according to data released by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA).
The achievement comes despite global trade challenges, tariff pressures, and economic slowdowns in several key markets. Industry experts attribute the record performance to successful market diversification strategies, strong demand for marine products, and continued efforts to strengthen India's seafood supply chain.
Frozen shrimp remained the backbone of India’s seafood export industry during FY26. The segment generated ₹49,037.93 crore (USD 5.62 billion) in export earnings, accounting for 40.19% of total export volume and 66.52% of total export value.
Frozen fish emerged as the second-largest export category, contributing ₹5,658.37 crore (USD 643.70 million). Meanwhile, dried seafood recorded exceptional growth, rising by 78.05% in value to reach ₹5,079.09 crore.
Other major export products included frozen squid, which earned ₹4,493.80 crore, and frozen cuttlefish, which witnessed a volume growth of 13.32% during the fiscal year.
While the United States remained India’s largest seafood market by value, generating ₹20,263.27 crore (USD 2.32 billion) in imports, exports to the country declined due to tariff-related challenges.
China emerged as the largest importer by volume, purchasing 4.90 lakh metric tonnes of Indian seafood worth USD 1.61 billion.
India also achieved significant success in diversifying its export destinations. Exports to the European Union recorded a 37.9% increase in value, while Southeast Asia and Japan registered strong double-digit growth rates, helping offset challenges in traditional markets.
India’s major ports handled record seafood export volumes during FY26.
Visakhapatnam Port (Vizag) retained its position as the country's leading seafood export gateway, handling 3.28 lakh tonnes of marine products valued at ₹20,217 crore.
Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) and Kochi Port also played a significant role in supporting the country's growing seafood trade, managing substantial export volumes throughout the year.
To sustain growth and strengthen competitiveness, the government and industry stakeholders are focusing on long-term structural improvements.
Key initiatives include:
India’s record seafood export performance in FY26 demonstrates the sector’s resilience and growing global competitiveness. With expanding market access, rising demand for value-added products, and continued investment in quality infrastructure, the seafood industry is expected to remain a key contributor to India’s export growth story in the years ahead.
The achievement further reinforces India's position as one of the world's leading seafood exporters and highlights the success of its market diversification strategy amid an evolving global trade environment.
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