India’s seafood exports reached a record high in the 2025–26, crossing ₹72,000 crore in value, according to official data. The country exported 19.32 lakh MT of marine products worth ₹72,325 crore, reflecting an increase from 16,98,170 MT valued at ₹62,408 crore in 2024–25. The growth reflects an upward trend in recent years, despite fluctuations. In 2023–24, exports stood at 17,81,602 MT valued at ₹60,523 crore, while 2022–23 recorded 17,35,285 MT worth ₹63,969 crore. Andhra Pradesh (AP) continues to play a central role in India’s seafood sector, contributing 30 per cent of total exports. Aquaculture is spread across nearly 4 lakh acres in districts such as Konaseema, Nellore, West Godavari, Eluru, Guntur, Prakasam and Krishna. Around 1.4 lakh farmers are engaged in shrimp cultivation, particularly of Vannamei, Tiger and Scampi varieties. Among these, Vannamei shrimp remains in strong global demand. India exports a wide range of marine products, including shrimp, fish, dried items, squid, cuttlefish and live species to over 125 countries. Key markets include the USA, China, Japan, the EU, Southeast Asia, Vietnam, the Middle East, Italy and Russia. Recent data indicates diversification in export destinations. Shipments to China, the second-largest market, grew by 20.1 per cent in volume during 2025–26. Exports to the EU rose by 35.2 per cent, while Southeast Asia registered a 28.2 per cent increase. In addition to shrimp farming, aquaculture in Andhra Pradesh includes species such as seabass, grass carp, common carp, murrel and crabs. Amid rising exports, aqua farmers have called for expanded free trade agreements with more countries to reduce reliance on a few major markets, particularly the USA, and to sustain growth in the sector.
