New Delhi
The Ministry of Fisheries has announced new guidelines for the import of live seaweed on Friday, aiming to tackle seed shortages in India’s burgeoning seaweed industry and boost the coastal economy.
The regulatory framework establishes strict quarantine procedures and biosecurity measures, allowing importers to bring high-quality seaweed germplasm into the country with approval from the National Committee on Introduction of Exotic Aquatic Species. Following approval, the Department will issue an import permit within four weeks.
This initiative aligns with India’s ambitious target of producing 1.12 million tonnes of seaweed by 2025 under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Currently, India faces challenges in securing enough quality seed stock, particularly for Kappaphycus, the most commonly farmed seaweed species.
As part of its commitment to developing the seaweed sector, the government has invested Rs 127.7 crore in a Multipurpose Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu. The new guidelines are expected to promote research and development in seaweed cultivation while also enhancing downstream processing industries.
The Ministry stated that these measures could create additional job opportunities in coastal villages and boost exports. The guidelines include post-import monitoring protocols and risk assessment procedures to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases, thereby addressing biosecurity concerns in India’s expanding seaweed sector.
