The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) has been instrumental in elevating India’s seafood industry on the global stage. Established in 1972 under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, MPEDA’s primary mission is to promote the export of marine products by ensuring quality, sustainability, and compliance with international standards. A cornerstone of this mission is its comprehensive training and skill development programs designed to equip stakeholders with the necessary skills for quality production and export processes.

Empowering Through Training: MPEDA’s Initiatives

Recognizing the dynamic nature of the global seafood market, MPEDA offers a range of training programs tailored to various stakeholders, including farmers, processors, and exporters. These programs focus on sustainable practices, quality assurance, and diversification to meet international demands.

Sustainable Shrimp Aquaculture Training

Shrimp farming is a significant contributor to India’s seafood exports. To promote sustainable practices, MPEDA organizes intensive 3 to 5-day training programs focusing on:

• Sustainable Farming Techniques: Educating farmers on methods that enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact.

• Better Management Practices (BMPs): Guidelines to optimize resources, manage risks, and maintain high product quality.

• Aquaculture Diversification: Introducing farmers to alternative species cultivation to mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations and diseases.

These programs have empowered numerous farmers to adopt eco-friendly practices, ensuring long-term productivity and environmental conservation. In the fiscal year 2023-24, India exported a record 1,781,602 metric tons of seafood, underscoring the impact of such initiatives.

HACCP Implementation Training

Ensuring the safety and quality of seafood is paramount for accessing international markets. MPEDA’s Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) training programs are designed to:

• Educate Industry Personnel: Providing a 4-day course on HACCP principles and audit processes to technical staff in the seafood industry.

• Assist in Manual Preparation: Guiding establishments in developing HACCP manuals and certifying compliance.

These efforts have been crucial in meeting the stringent quality standards of markets like the USA and the European Union. In 2023-24, the USA imported 329,192 metric tons of Indian seafood, highlighting the importance of rigorous quality assurance.

Community Empowerment Programs

MPEDA is committed to uplifting marginalized communities by offering specialized training to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). These 5-day programs focus on:

• Basics of Shrimp and Prawn Culture: Introducing participants to fundamental aquaculture practices.

• Sustainable Practices for Self-Employment: Equipping individuals with skills to start their own ventures or seek employment in established farms.

Such initiatives not only promote sustainable aquaculture but also provide livelihood opportunities, contributing to the socio-economic development of coastal regions.

Quality Assurance and Certification

To maintain India’s reputation in the global seafood market, MPEDA emphasizes quality assurance through:

• Regular Inspections: Ensuring compliance with international standards across the supply chain.

• Certification Programs: Offering certifications like the Shaphari scheme for aquaculture farms and hatcheries, which signifies disease-free and quality produce.

These measures have bolstered confidence among international buyers, leading to sustained demand for Indian seafood products.

Altus Exports: Facilitating Global Reach for Indian Manufacturers

While MPEDA lays the foundation for quality and compliance, exporting products to international markets requires strategic partnerships. Altus Exports specializes in bridging this gap, assisting Indian manufacturers in navigating the complexities of global trade.

How Altus Exports Supports Manufacturers

• Buyer Identification: Leveraging an extensive network and comprehensive databases, Altus Exports connects manufacturers with potential buyers worldwide.

• Marketing Expertise: A skilled marketing team promotes products effectively in international markets, enhancing visibility and demand.

• Documentation Assistance: Ensuring all necessary certifications and compliance documents are in place for seamless export operations.

Partnering with Altus Exports

Manufacturers aiming to expand their global footprint can benefit from a partnership with Altus Exports. Ideal partners are those who:

• Produce Export-Quality Products: Adhering to international quality standards.

• Aspire for Global Expansion: Eager to enter and establish themselves in international markets.

• Hold Necessary Certifications: Possessing essential documentation and compliance certificates.

By collaborating with Altus Exports, manufacturers can focus on production while the complexities of export processes are managed by experts. To explore partnership opportunities, visit their Manufacturer Partnership page.

Conclusion

MPEDA’s dedication to training and skill development has been pivotal in enhancing the quality and sustainability of India’s seafood exports. Coupled with strategic partnerships facilitated by entities like Altus Exports, Indian manufacturers are well-positioned to thrive in the global marketplace, ensuring that the rich and diverse marine products of India reach consumers worldwide.