New Delhi
The Indian government has said the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (CETA) will open new doors for seafood exporters, allowing them to seize a larger share of the UK market and expand beyond traditional trade partners like the US and China.
Signed in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK PM Keir Starmer, the pact offers duty-free access to a premium market, boosts coastal livelihoods, and improves India’s image as a reliable supplier of high-quality, sustainable seafood.
“This is a unique opportunity for fisherfolk, processors, and exporters to step onto the global stage,” the Ministry of Fisheries said. “It supports India's goal of becoming a global leader in sustainable marine trade.”
Indian seafood now competes on equal terms with countries like Vietnam and Singapore, which already enjoy UK trade deals. Earlier, Indian exporters faced tariff disadvantages, especially on high-value items like shrimp and value-added marine products. With CETA offering zero-duty access on 99% of tariff lines, Indian products become more competitive.
In 2024–25, India’s seafood exports totaled $7.38 billion (₹60,523 crore), with frozen shrimp leading at $4.88 billion, or 66% of total earnings. Marine exports to the UK stood at $104 million, of which $80 million came from frozen shrimp.
Key exports to the UK include Vannamei shrimp, black tiger shrimp, squid, lobsters, and pomfret—all set to benefit under the new agreement. Sectors like textiles, leather, and gems and jewellery are also expected to gain from duty-free access.
CETA not only boosts revenues, officials said, but uplifts coastal communities and advances India’s place in global seafood trade.
