New Delhi: India’s seafood industry is poised for unprecedented growth following the historic signing of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
The agreement, finalized in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, grants Indian marine products 100% duty-free access to the UK market – eliminating import tariffs that previously ranged up to 21.5%.
Seafood Industry Products Get Zero-Duty Access
With zero-duty access extended to a wide range of seafood industry products including shrimp, frozen squid, pomfret, lobsters, fish oils, and value-added marine items, Indian exporters are expected to significantly enhance their competitiveness in the UK.
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The move is projected to boost marine exports to the UK by up to 70%, bolstering India’s presence in a market that currently imports seafood worth $5.4 billion annually.
In FY 2024–25, India’s seafood exports stood at $7.38 billion, with the UK market accounting for $104 million. Frozen shrimp led the pack with a 66% share.
Under CETA, key items under HS Codes 03, 05, 15, 1603, 1604, 1605, 23, and 95 will enjoy tariff-free entry, leveling the field for Indian exporters alongside competitors from Vietnam and Singapore, who already benefit from similar trade pacts with the UK.
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India’s fisheries sector sustains the livelihoods of 28 million people and contributes 8% of global fish production. With a robust track record of growth – 60% volume growth and 88% value growth over the past decade – the CETA agreement will further drive sectoral development, particularly in coastal states such as Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.
Sustained focus on quality, traceability, and compliance with UK sanitary and phytosanitary standards will be crucial to realizing CETA’s full potential.
This trade deal not only boosts India’s seafood industry but also aligns with national goals under Viksit Bharat 2047 and India’s ambition to become a global leader in sustainable marine exports.
