Export of Fish from India is as per the words of the Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Som Parkash, the government is doing
Over 50 million people around the world depend on fishing for their daily income, whereas an additional 150 million depend on fishing-related industries for their livelihood. Over 10 million individuals who work on around 2.5 million small-scale trawlers and fishing boats account for almost 50% of the world’s total catch. Aquaculture has also grown in popularity in recent years as a more sustainable option that helps increase the local fish supply.
India is a major exporter of fish with the fish export business bringing in over 476 billion INR in 2020. Overall the fish export business in India is the fourth largest in the world. The Indian government is doing all it can to promote the export of fish from India and grow India’s stature as a seafood exporter. This article will look at the fish export business in India, and how exporters can sell packaged fish legally to foreign nations.
Export of Fish from India
As per the words of the Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Som Parkash, the government is doing all it can to boost fish export in India. While talking at the International Seafood Show in India, Prakash mentioned how the government has committed to supporting the seafood industry. The fishing and seafood industry employs over 14.5 million people in India and has the potential to contribute a lot more to India’s economic development. The government has asked the Marine Products Export Development Authority, also known as the MPEDA to submit a memorandum regarding the industry’s requirements. Once they receive the memo, the government will address these shortcomings to raise the overall standard of the industry.
The government aims to increase India’s market share in the overall seafood market from 4.1% to 6.7% by 2030. The industry employs over 40.5 million people through additional sectors and other subsidiary ventures, contributing 1% to India’s gross domestic product. Several politicians have also asked for more foreign direct investment to enter the sector to power further innovation. To meet the goal set by the government, the industry will have to hit an INR 1 trillion valuation by 2025, which will be double what it was worth in 2019.
Fish Export from India: Government’s Commitment
The fisheries industry in India is deeply rooted in a diverse range of ecosystems, spanning from the pristine waters of the Himalayas to the expansive Indian Ocean. This biodiversity not only sustains millions of livelihoods but also contributes significantly to national income, exports, and food security.
Historical Perspective and Transformation:
India’s fisheries sector boasts a rich history dating back to the Harappan civilization, with formal recognition accorded through the enactment of the “Indian Fisheries Act” in 1897. Post-independence, the sector’s development varied across states until transformative reforms were introduced in 2014. The establishment of the Department of Fisheries in February 2019 and the subsequent creation of an independent Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying in June 2019 underscored the government’s commitment to holistic development.
Key Reforms and Initiatives:
The post-2014 period witnessed substantial financial investments and policy changes aimed at unlocking the sector’s full potential. The government introduced insurance coverage for fishing vessels, extended Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facilities to fishers and fish farmers, and launched schemes like the Blue Revolution, Fishery and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). This commitment is highlighted by the highest-ever investment of Rs. 30,572 crores in the fisheries sector (2015-2025).
Economic Impact and Achievements:
The sustained focus on the fisheries sector has yielded remarkable results, with fish production reaching an unprecedented 16.25 million metric tons during FY 2021-22. Marine exports soared to Rs. 57,586 crores, positioning India as a fish surplus country. PMMSY, in particular, has supported millions of farmers under insurance coverage and livelihood initiatives, contributing to the overall well-being of the sector.
Global Outreach and Health Impact:
India’s commitment to fish exports is evident in its emergence as the 4th largest exporter of fish and fisheries products globally. Beyond economic considerations, the fisheries sector plays a crucial role in addressing health and nutritional needs. Fish and aqua products serve as affordable and rich sources of protein, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by contributing to hunger alleviation and nutrient fulfilment.
Future Trajectory:
With a commitment to increasing fish production to 22 million metric tons by 2024-2025, the government envisions a sustainable and profitable future for the fisheries industry. Massive investments in schemes, infrastructure development, and the creation of modern fishing harbours align with the objective of fostering a blue economy.
Challenges Faced by the Fish Export Business in India
The Budget for 2020 has prioritised fishing, with the aim being to increase production to 20 million metric tons by 2023, which would amount to an increase of 50% from 2019. From 2017 to 2018, India’s fish production increased by nearly 6%, with the total fisheries production steadily increasing in recent years. When it comes to fish production, Andhra Pradesh tops the rankings with 3.99 million MT in 2018, followed by West Bengal, with 1.77 million MT. However, the fish export business in India has faced several challenges when it comes to reaching out to new markets, some of which are as follows;
- Japan – Limited growth due to additional inspections and requirement for certifications and audits implemented due to the food safety standards practised in Japan.
- European Union – Exports from India have to undergo extra testing for several antibiotic contaminants after a study discovered deficiencies within our food safety controls.
- United States of America – Though the USA is the biggest importer of shrimps from India, they recently banned the purchase of wild shrimp from India. This came to be as wild catching of shrimp does not make use of devices that exclude endangered turtles. However, Indian exporters have argued that such species of turtles are not found along the west coast where shrimp is caught.
- China – Applied stricter inspection norms and other control measures to fish exports from India.
How to Export Fish from India
The export of fish from India requires the completion of certain legal compliance norms and registrations, which are as follows;
- First and foremost, the exporting company must register with the Director-General of Foreign Trade and obtain an Import Export Code.
- Next, the business will have to obtain all the required export certificates and official assurances ensuring they comply with the Overseas Market Access Requirements. These are specific to the country of import and hence the company must go through the importing country’s General Requirements for Export to maintain statutory compliance.
- Since the fish export business is subject to stringent licensing and quality control protocols, the exporting company must ensure they comply with the guidelines. This will require them to obtain various certificates indicating that the product is free of toxic substances and is appropriately labelled.
- The exporting company must also pay special attention to labelling and packaging criteria as seafood is allergic to many and requires special packaging.
- The business must also ensure good hygienic practices while handling and transporting fish while also providing ample refrigeration along the way. Businesses can opt to follow the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point system to ensure food safety, hygiene and quality.
- The Indian government established the Indian Customs and Excise Gateway to fasten the process of customs clearance. Through this system, companies can apply for an export license by submitting the required application, supporting documents and processing fees online.
- Exporters can also take the help of Customs House Agents registered under the Commissioner of Customs to speed up the process of clearance.
Documents Required to Export Fish from India
- Importer/Exporter Code
- Directorate General of Foreign Trade registration
- Shipping bill
- Bill of export
- Business Identification Number from the Customs department
- Bill of lading
- Export General Manifest
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Certificate of origin from the MPEDA
- Health certificate from the Export Inspection Agency
- Catch certificates from the MPEDA
- Registration Cum Membership Certificate through the MPEDA
- Certificate of Incorporation of the business
- Valid ID and address proof of the applicant along with two passport-sized photographs
FAQ’s
How do I become a fish exporter?
To become a fish exporter, you need to follow several steps, including obtaining necessary licenses and registrations, establishing a strong supply chain, and complying with export regulations. It is advisable to consult with experts or government agencies for detailed guidance on the process.
Is fish export profitable?
Fish export can be profitable, but the profitability depends on various factors like:
1. Targeted fish species: High-value species like shrimp and salmon generally offer higher profit margins.
2. Export market: Different markets have varying demand, prices, and competition levels.
3. Operational efficiency: Minimizing costs through efficient sourcing, processing, and logistics is crucial.
Market access and marketing strategies: Building strong relationships with buyers and effective marketing strategies can increase profitability.
Which country sells most fish?
China is the largest fish producer and consumer of fish.
Which country buys the most fish?
Some of the top seafood importers include the United States, the European Union, and China.
Who is the largest importer of Indian seafood?
The largest importer of Indian seafood is the United States, followed by the European Union, China, and Japan.
Which is the largest fish company in India?
AVT Natural Products is considered the largest fish company in India based on revenue.
