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Summary
Marine exports from India have posted strong growth despite high US tariffs and multiple trade barriers. This success stems from strategic market diversification, expansion of product categories, and proactive government intervention. The Indian seafood sector’s ability to pivot to new markets offers valuable lessons for other export industries.
Marine Strategy Drives Growth Despite US Barriers
Marine exports from India rose 16% in the first half of the current financial year, even though the US imposed steep duties—including a 50% tariff, a 5.77% countervailing duty, and anti-dumping duties ranging from 2.49% to 3.96% depending on the exporting firm.
Marine sector experts attribute this resilience to a decisive shift from dependency on a single market to a broader, multi-market and multi-product approach.
Exports Expand as Market Diversification Gains Momentum
Exports have benefited significantly from the industry's move away from relying solely on the US, which traditionally took nearly 40% of India’s seafood shipments, particularly Vannamei shrimp.
Exports now show that 57% of shrimp exports go to non-US destinations, thanks to aggressive market exploration across Asia and Europe.
Tariffs Become Manageable with Broader Product Portfolios
Tariffs imposed by the US pushed Indian exporters to reduce dependence on one species and diversify across multiple seafood categories.
Tariffs no longer heavily dictate overall export performance because companies have widened their product baskets and embraced new species with rising global demand.
Diversification Unlocks New Opportunities Across Global Markets
Diversification efforts—supported by the Government of India—have opened doors to high-value destinations. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal played a key role by enabling 102 Indian fishery units to be approved for exports to the European Union.
Diversification has driven:
- 40% growth in exports to the EU
- Shipment expansion to China, Vietnam, Belgium, Japan, Russia, Canada and the UK
- 17% increase in shrimp and prawn exports
Overall marine exports increased from $4.20 billion to $4.87 billion during April–October 2025.
Growth Continues as New Market Approvals Are Pursued
Growth prospects remain strong as the Commerce Ministry is seeking approval for 20+ additional units, especially for Russia—a market showing increased appetite for Indian seafood.
Growth in these alternative destinations is expected to further elevate India’s overall export performance through 2025 and beyond.
Conclusion
India’s marine export success demonstrates a powerful lesson: overdependence on a single market or product is risky. By expanding both its destination markets and product categories, India has effectively reduced vulnerability to tariffs and trade barriers. Other export sectors can replicate this strategy by diversifying their product portfolios, scouting for new geographical opportunities, and building resilience into their supply chains.