The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) has proactively addressed the international community’s concerns over food safety and labor practices within the Indian shrimp industry. FIEO’s initiative underscores a commitment to stringent global standards, focusing on the critical import demands of the United States. Ajay Sahai, FIEO Director General, conveyed, “Our marine sector has been diligently complying and continuously enhancing its standards to meet US shrimp import criteria.”
Acknowledging a minority of exporters potentially deviating from established norms, Sahai clarified that such instances do not define the sector’s overall integrity. He also highlighted opposition from the Association of Shrimp Producers of America, advocating for heightened tariffs on Indian shrimp to restrict its market entry. Despite these obstacles, Sahai revealed the US’s significant reliance on imported shrimp, which fulfills 80% of its consumption due to domestic production constraints.
The fiscal year 2022-23 marked a milestone for India’s seafood industry, achieving record-breaking exports by both volume and value. The nation exported 1,735,286 tonnes of seafood, amassing $8.09 billion (Rs 63,969.14 crore) , signifying a 26.73% surge in quantity and a 4.31% increase in dollar valuation over the previous year.
Among the export portfolio, frozen shrimp was the standout, driving both volume and value gains. The primary markets for Indian seafood, the US and China, witnessed significant import activity, with frozen shrimp exports generating (5,481.63 million) (Rs 43,135.58 crore), accounting for a substantial share of India’s seafood export earnings.
The FIEO’s recent declarations, coupled with the sector’s impressive export performance, reflect India’s resolve to meet and surpass international standards in seafood quality and safety. As Indian shrimp secures a pivotal role in global markets, the industry’s allegiance to stringent safety and quality benchmarks is essential for fostering market growth and navigating the complexities of international trade and regulation.
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