The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) is preparing to launch exports of fresh chilled fish to the United Kingdom, marking a significant step in expanding India’s seafood export portfolio under the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The initiative is expected to help Indian seafood exporters tap into the UK’s growing demand for premium-quality fresh fish while moving beyond the country’s traditional focus on frozen seafood exports.
The India–UK CETA is expected to improve market access for Indian marine products by reducing trade barriers and enhancing the competitiveness of Indian seafood in the British market. Industry stakeholders believe the agreement will create fresh opportunities for exporters to supply high-value chilled fish products to supermarkets, wholesalers, restaurants, and hospitality chains across the UK.
Unlike frozen seafood, fresh chilled fish requires a highly efficient cold-chain network, rapid transportation, and strict adherence to food safety standards to preserve freshness and quality throughout the supply chain. MPEDA is working closely with exporters, seafood processors, and logistics providers to strengthen infrastructure for handling, packaging, storage, and air cargo transportation while ensuring compliance with the UK’s stringent sanitary, phytosanitary, traceability, and quality certification requirements.
The authority is also encouraging exporters to adopt international best practices in processing and packaging to meet consumer expectations in premium overseas markets. Enhanced traceability systems and improved cold-chain logistics are expected to play a critical role in ensuring consistent product quality and reducing transit losses.
The UK remains an important destination for Indian seafood exports, and the launch of fresh chilled fish shipments is expected to diversify India’s export basket beyond frozen shrimp and other processed marine products. Industry experts believe the initiative will increase export earnings, create higher-value opportunities for seafood processors, and improve income for fishermen by enabling access to premium-priced international markets.
The initiative also aligns with India’s broader strategy of expanding value-added agricultural and marine exports through new trade agreements. By leveraging the benefits of the India–UK CETA, MPEDA aims to strengthen India’s position as a reliable supplier of high-quality seafood while enhancing bilateral trade and supporting the long-term growth of the country’s marine export sector.
