India’s seafood sector received a significant boost after the European Union (EU) cleared 102 additional fishery establishments for exports, raising the number of EU-approved Indian units to 604. The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) announced the approvals on September 11, 2025, noting that the move will enhance India’s competitiveness in the European seafood market while offsetting trade challenges posed by US tariffs.
This achievement is the result of continued discussions between Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, senior ministry officials, and their EU counterparts. Agencies including MPEDA and the Export Inspection Council (EIC) have worked extensively to upgrade safety and hygiene standards across India’s seafood supply chain to meet Europe’s strict requirements.
MPEDA Chairman D.V. Swamy highlighted that the expansion of approved facilities will allow Indian exporters to raise product quality, diversify seafood offerings, and gain deeper access in key European markets such as Belgium, Spain, and Italy. He added that the upcoming India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade Agreement, set to take effect on October 1, 2025, will open new doors in Norway, Switzerland, and other EFTA countries.
During FY25, India exported nearly 1.7 million metric tonnes of seafood valued at $7.45 billion. Frozen shrimp remained the leading contributor both in terms of volume and revenue. Exports to the EU reached 215,080 metric tonnes worth about $1,125.6 million, with frozen shrimp, squid, and cuttlefish making up the bulk of shipments.
To ensure compliance with global standards, MPEDA has emphasized initiatives such as Good Management Practices, rigorous traceability systems, Pre-Harvest Testing, and adherence to Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) protocols. These measures have strengthened India’s reputation for food safety in international markets.
Industry leaders welcomed the EU’s decision. Dr. Manoj Sharma, Managing Director of Mayank Aquaculture Private Limited, and Santhosh Prabhu, Chairman of Island Exports, said the approvals will provide a major boost to India’s seafood exports, while creating opportunities for high-value and processed products in Europe.
The EU’s recognition of additional facilities is expected to further cement India’s role as a reliable supplier of quality seafood and support its ambitions to expand market share in Europe and beyond.
