India’s marine products exports registered a robust growth in the first seven months of FY 2025-26, rising 16% in value and 12% in volume, despite higher tariffs imposed by the United States, official data showed.
Seafood exports climbed to $4.87 billion during April–October 2025, compared with $4.19 billion in the same period last year. In volume terms, shipments increased from 9.62 lakh metric tonnes to 10.73 lakh metric tonnes, reflecting a 12% expansion.
The growth comes at a time when the US — the largest buyer of India’s Vannamei shrimp — imposed steep tariffs, leading to a marginal decline in shipments to the American market. Exports to the US fell 4% in value to $1.49 billion and 11% in quantity, though the country continues to remain India’s top seafood export destination.
However, the impact of the US slowdown has been offset by a sharp surge in exports to alternative markets, particularly in Asia and Europe. Vietnam emerged as a standout destination, importing $359 million worth of Indian marine products, a 110% increase over the corresponding period last year. Belgium recorded a 90% rise, while exports also grew strongly to Malaysia and Germany.
China’s importance in India’s seafood export basket has also increased. Exports to China rose to $845.67 million during April–October 2025, up from $710.21 million a year earlier, marking a 19% growth in value and 11% growth in quantity.
Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh ‘Lalan’ said the government has intensified efforts to diversify export destinations. “The Fisheries Ministry, in coordination with the Commerce Ministry, has been holding regular reviews with exporters and MPEDA to expand India’s seafood footprint in alternative global markets,” he said.
Officials said the data reflects a clear eastward pivot in India’s marine exports. “India’s seafood sector has shown remarkable resilience despite the unprecedented 58% US tariff on shrimp,” a senior Fisheries Ministry official said, adding that market diversification has helped cushion the impact of trade barriers.
With demand strengthening in Asia and Europe, industry players remain optimistic about sustaining export momentum for the rest of the fiscal year.
