India’s Seafood Exports Surge 11.2% to $8.28 Billion in FY 2025-26

India’s seafood sector has delivered a stellar performance in FY 2025-26, with exports surging by 11.2% to reach an all-time high of $8.28 billion. This remarkable growth was driven by robust demand for frozen shrimp in key international markets such as China, the European Union, and Southeast Asia. However, a decline in exports to the United States provided a sobering reminder of the challenges in navigating global trade dynamics.

Frozen shrimp has once again cemented its position as India’s top seafood export, contributing the lion’s share to the sector’s remarkable growth. Known for its high quality and competitive pricing, Indian shrimp has gained significant traction among global buyers, especially as the post-pandemic recovery boosts the demand for high-protein foods worldwide.

China and Southeast Asia Drive Growth

China and Southeast Asia emerged as powerhouse markets for Indian seafood, accounting for a large portion of the growth. This surge can be attributed to eased trade barriers, rising disposable incomes, and increasing consumer preference for seafood in these regions. Many Indian exporters also benefited from direct access to these dynamic markets through strategic trade routes and agreements.

The European Union: A Growing Market

Indian seafood exporters also made significant strides in the European Union, leveraging favorable trade agreements and a growing appetite for sustainable and traceable seafood. This region has become a critical growth driver, with demand for frozen shrimp leading the charge.

Despite the overall success, India’s seafood exports to the United States faced headwinds. The US, historically one of India’s largest seafood markets, saw a decline in import volumes due to stricter regulatory measures and shifting consumer preferences toward alternative protein sources. These trends underscore the need for Indian exporters to adapt their strategies to maintain a foothold in this crucial market.

Nonetheless, the sector’s ability to offset these declines with gains in other regions highlights its resilience and adaptability to global market dynamics.

The strong performance of India’s seafood sector presents unique opportunities for traders and investors to explore companies linked to aquaculture, cold-chain logistics, and seafood processing. By tracking the performance of these sectors, market participants can identify emerging trends and potential investment opportunities.