Shrimp exports: EU lists 102 new desi fishery units

NEW DELHI: In a significant development for the country's seafood industry, the European Union (EU) has listed 102 new Indian fishery units for export from India to EU member countries. The move comes amid the backdrop of stiff tariffs imposed by the US, which is expected to hurt the country's shrimp exports and lead to job losses.

The EU's decision is likely to offset some of that impact, with the new establishments finding new markets in EU, a move that is expected to help in the diversification of the country's seafood exports. "This significant expansion reflects the growing confidence in India's food safety and quality assurance systems, and marks a major step forward in enhancing market access for Indian seafood products, specially aquaculture shrimps and Cephalopods (Squid, Cuttle fish and Octopus)," said an official statement.

The decision follows a series of meetings in EU and New Delhi, in which commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal and senior officials of the commerce department participated, resulting in confidence in robust Indian official control mechanisms implemented by the Export Inspection Council (EIC).

Indian seafood exports meet stringent international standards, particularly those laid down by the EU and the move also reflects India's commitment to food safety, traceability, and compliance with EU regulations and strengthens India's position as a trusted supplier of high-quality seafood.

The commerce department is of the view that the decision will boost export volumes, generate employment, and enhance foreign exchange earnings. This development is also expected to significantly enhance India's seafood exports to the European Union, which is one of the most lucrative and quality-sensitive markets globally.