India intensified negotiations with the European Union to expand market access for seafood exports after steep US tariffs disrupted shipments and hurt exporters, commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal said on Sunday.
Addressing reporters, Goyal said the government acted proactively to protect the interests of exporters and fishermen after the US imposed a 50% tariff on Indian seafood exports, creating uncertainty across the sector.
“When America imposed a 50% tariff on Indian seafood, exports suffered a major setback and fishermen became worried. The Centre immediately engaged with the EU and worked to resolve regulatory bottlenecks,” he said.
According to the minister, several Indian fishing establishments that had earlier been delisted by the EU have now regained access after India strengthened quality control mechanisms and compliance standards.
“We adopted a firm approach using quality control orders and standards. Today, more than 125 Indian fishery establishments have been registered,” Goyal said.
The renewed access to the European market helped India stabilise seafood exports, which recorded an estimated growth of 12-14% last year despite global trade uncertainties, he added.
Goyal said the EU’s large import demand and strategic importance made it a crucial market for India’s seafood industry and broader export ambitions.
Highlighting India’s long-term trade strategy, the minister said the government was focusing on expanding exports, strengthening manufacturing and generating employment through free trade agreements and global partnerships over the next two decades.