The recently signed India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), officially known as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), has marked a historic milestone for India’s seafood export industry. With the introduction of zero-duty access for 99% of Indian seafood exports to the UK, the agreement offers a significant competitive edge to Indian exporters and unlocks massive growth potential in one of the world’s most valuable seafood markets.
0% Duty: A Game-Changer for Indian Seafood
Under the new trade regime, Indian seafood products such as shrimp, tuna, fishmeal, and feed—which previously faced UK tariffs of up to 8.5%—will now enter the UK market completely duty-free. This not only reduces costs for importers but also makes Indian products more price-competitive and attractive, creating substantial export opportunities for Indian producers.
Tapping into the $5.4 Billion UK Marine Market
India currently holds a modest 2.25% share of the UK’s $5.4 billion seafood market. The FTA positions India to significantly expand its footprint by enabling easier access, lowering import costs, and increasing product affordability in the UK retail and food service sectors. This opens the door for diversification and premiumisation of India’s seafood portfolio in the UK.
Key Benefits for Indian Seafood Exporters
- Immediate duty-free access to 99% of seafood products
- Inclusion of major products: Shrimp, tuna, fishmeal, feeds
- Potential to increase market share in a high-value destination
- Support for exporters in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Kerala, Gujarat & West Bengal
- Boost for coastal livelihoods and export-linked employment
Empowering Coastal Economies
For India’s major seafood-producing states—Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Gujarat, and West Bengal—this agreement is a direct opportunity to enhance income for fishers, farmers, processors, and exporters. The duty relief enables more competitive pricing, improves supply chain efficiency, and encourages value addition at the source, leading to inclusive growth and sustainability.
A Step Towards Global Leadership in Seafood Exports
This strategic breakthrough not only strengthens India’s bilateral trade with the UK but also sets a precedent for future FTAs with other high-value markets. As MPEDA continues to promote quality standards, traceability, and product diversification, the India–UK FTA comes as a timely catalyst for the next phase of India’s seafood export journey.
MPEDA’s Call to Exporters
MPEDA urges all stakeholders—particularly exporters, processors, and aquaculture entrepreneurs—to make the most of this opportunity. The time is ripe to scale operations, expand market presence, and position Indian seafood as a global standard of excellence.
Together, let’s take Indian seafood to new shores.
