India’s seafood exports reached a record high in the 2025–26 fiscal year, crossing ₹72,000 crore in value, according to official data. The country exported 19.32 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of marine products worth approximately ₹72,325 crore, marking a notable increase from 16,98,170 MT valued at ₹62,408 crore in 2024–25. The growth reflects a steady 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 continues to play a central role in India’s seafood sector, contributing more than 30% 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 United States, China, Japan, the European Union, 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% in volume during 2025–26. Exports to the European Union rose by 35.2%, while Southeast Asia registered a 28.2% 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 United States, and to sustain growth in the sector.
