Dakshina Kannada has officially been declared an export hub by the Central government, with seafood and cashew identified as high-potential products for global markets. The announcement was made following a reply by Union Minister Jitin Prasada to a question raised in Parliament by MP Brijesh Chowta on December 2.
As part of the Districts as Export Hubs (DEH) initiative, the recognition aims to accelerate sustainable economic development in the district. According to the minister, the move will strengthen local industries, expand value-addition opportunities, and enhance Dakshina Kannada’s connectivity to international markets.
To realise the district’s export potential, the government has emphasised the need for coordinated efforts involving state and district export promotion committees, customs authorities, logistics providers, MSMEs, testing facilities, common facility centres, warehouse capacity building, and the promotion of e-commerce-led exports.
The Union Minister confirmed that the district-level export action plan is already under implementation. Dakshina Kannada’s strong connectivity with New Mangalore Port and the formation of a dedicated district export promotion committee are expected to further support the initiative.