India’s Seafood Exports Flat at $7.45 Billion In FY2024-25

India’s seafood export performance remained stable in FY2024–25, recording USD 7.45 billion in earnings, according to the Ministry of Commerce. While the export value marginally increased from USD 7.38 billion the previous year, the volume of shipments declined to 16,98,170 tonnes from 17,81,602 tonnes, reflecting challenges in international demand and supply chain dynamics. The United States and China continued to be India’s top destinations for marine exports.

Key Export Figures and Trends

Frozen Shrimp Leads Export Portfolio

Frozen shrimp maintained its dominance, contributing USD 5.17 billion to total export earnings. It accounted for,

• 43.67% of the total export quantity
• 69.46% of the total dollar earnings

This trend reinforces India’s position as a leading global supplier of shrimp, especially to the U.S. and Chinese markets.

Other Major Exported Seafood

Following frozen shrimp, the top seafood exports were,

• Frozen fish – USD 622.60 million
• Frozen squid – USD 367.68 million

These items reflect the diversification in India’s seafood basket, catering to multiple international tastes and requirements.

Major Export Destinations

United States: The Largest Buyer

The U.S. remained the top importer of Indian seafood, importing goods worth USD 2.71 billion in FY25, up from USD 2.55 billion in FY24. The U.S. accounts for a significant share of India’s high-value shrimp exports, driven by steady consumer demand and preference for Indian-origin seafood.

Other Key Markets

1. China: USD 1.27 billion
2. European Union: USD 1.12 billion
3. Southeast Asia: USD 974.99 million
4. Japan: USD 411.55 million
5. Middle East: USD 278.31 million

These figures highlight India’s broad export footprint across Asia, Europe, and the Gulf, despite global trade fluctuations.

Ports and Logistics

Leading Ports

The top two ports handling seafood exports were,

• Visakhapatnam (Vizag)
• Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT)

These ports play a critical logistical role in the smooth movement of refrigerated and processed marine products to global markets.

Sectoral Analysis and Challenges

Stable Revenue, But Falling Volume

Although export value remained flat, the drop in shipment volume points to,

• Weakening demand in some markets
• Rising compliance costs linked to food safety and traceability
• Global logistics and freight challenges
• Climate impacts on marine harvests

Resilience in Export Strategy

India’s focus on quality compliance, product diversification, and cold chain infrastructure has helped maintain value levels even amid global headwinds. Efforts to boost exports through certification schemes, digital traceability, and market expansion are underway.