The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) has been instrumental in transforming India’s marine export landscape. Established in 1972 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, MPEDA’s primary mandate is to promote the export of marine products from India and ensure the sustained quality of seafood exports. Through strategic infrastructure development, including the modernization of processing plants and storage facilities, MPEDA has significantly enhanced the efficiency and quality of marine exports, positioning India as a leading player in the global seafood market.

Modernization of Processing Plants

Processing plants are the backbone of the seafood export industry, where raw marine products are transformed into export-ready goods. Recognizing the critical role of these facilities, MPEDA has undertaken several initiatives to modernize processing plants across the country:

• Upgradation of Technology: MPEDA has facilitated the adoption of advanced technologies in processing units, such as Individual Quick Freezing (IQF) machinery and modern plate freezers. These technologies ensure rapid freezing of seafood, preserving its freshness and extending shelf life, which is crucial for maintaining quality during transportation to international markets.

• Quality Control Laboratories: To adhere to international quality standards, MPEDA has established state-of-the-art quality control laboratories. These facilities conduct rigorous testing for contaminants and ensure that seafood products meet the stringent requirements of global consumers.

• Training and Capacity Building: MPEDA organizes regular training programs for workers and management in processing plants. These programs focus on best practices in hygiene, handling, and processing techniques, ensuring that the workforce is well-equipped to maintain high standards of quality.

Enhancement of Storage Facilities

Efficient storage solutions are vital to maintaining the quality of marine products from the point of harvest to the final consumer. MPEDA’s efforts in this domain include:

• Development of Cold Chain Infrastructure: MPEDA has invested in the establishment of a robust cold chain network, including the construction of modern cold storage units at major fishing harbors and processing centers. This infrastructure minimizes post-harvest losses and maintains the integrity of seafood products during transit.

• Insulated Fish Boxes and Ice Plants: To support small-scale fishermen, MPEDA has distributed insulated fish boxes and facilitated the setting up of ice-making plants. These measures ensure that fish remains fresh from the time of catch until it reaches processing units, thereby enhancing the overall quality of the final product.

Impact on Marine Exports

The concerted efforts by MPEDA in upgrading processing and storage infrastructure have yielded remarkable results:

• Record Export Volumes: In the financial year 2023-24, India’s export of marine products reached an all-time high volume of 1,781,602 metric tons, with a total value of ₹60,523.89 crore (USD 7,381.89 million).

• Diversification of Export Markets: While traditional markets like the USA and China continue to dominate, accounting for significant shares of exports, MPEDA’s initiatives have opened new markets. In 2024-25, six new destinations, including Guadeloupe, Mayotte, and Suriname, were identified, with an export target set at USD 8,000 million.

• Product Diversification: Frozen shrimp remains the largest exported marine product, contributing to more than 53% of the total quantity and about 75.11% of the total export value.

  Indian Trade Portal

  However, there has been a notable increase in the export of other products like frozen fish, cuttlefish, and squid, reflecting a broader product base and reduced dependency on a single commodity.

Government Initiatives Complementing MPEDA’s Efforts

The Indian government has launched several schemes to bolster the fisheries sector, complementing MPEDA’s infrastructure development initiatives:

• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): Launched in 2020 with an investment of ₹20,050 crore, PMMSY aims to enhance fish production, develop critical infrastructure, and promote exports. The scheme focuses on quality fish production, aquaculture diversification, and the development of modern post-harvest infrastructure, including cold chains.

• Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF): Initiated in 2018-19 with a corpus of ₹7,522.48 crore, FIDF provides concessional finance to develop essential infrastructure, such as fishing harbors, cold storage facilities, and fish processing units.

  Food Tech Biz

How Altus Exports Can Assist Indian Manufacturers

As Indian manufacturers strive to expand their presence in global markets, partnering with experienced export facilitators becomes crucial. Altus Exports offers comprehensive solutions to help manufacturers navigate the complexities of international trade:

• Expertise in Market Research: Altus Exports conducts in-depth market analysis to identify potential buyers and understand market trends, ensuring that products meet the preferences and standards of target markets.

• Robust Network: With an extensive network of international contacts, Altus Exports connects manufacturers with reliable distributors, agents, and retailers, facilitating seamless market entry and expansion.

• End-to-End Support: From handling documentation and compliance to logistics and marketing, Altus Exports provides end-to-end support, allowing manufacturers to focus on production while ensuring efficient export processes.

Manufacturers interested in exploring global opportunities can learn more about partnering with Altus Exports by visiting their Manufacturer Partnership page.