US Tariff Reduction to Revive India's Seafood Exports After Steep Decline
The seafood export industry in India is poised for a significant recovery as the United States has agreed to reduce tariffs on these products, according to the Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI). This development follows a challenging period marked by a sharp decline in shipments due to previously imposed high duties.
Impact of High Tariffs on Export Performance
India's seafood exports to the US, which is the largest export destination for this sector, faced substantial pressure in recent months. The imposition of sharply higher duties from August last year led to a notable downturn in trade figures.
- Exports to the US were valued at $2.7 billion in the 2024-25 financial year, highlighting the market's importance.
- During April to November of the current financial year, seafood exports to the US fell by approximately 6.3% in value terms.
- In volume terms, the decline was even more pronounced, with a drop of nearly 15% compared to the same period last year.
The SEAI attributed this decline directly to the steep increase in tariffs, which at one point soared to as high as 50%. This surge severely hurt the competitiveness of Indian seafood products in the US market, making them less attractive to American buyers.
Trade Deal Brings Relief and Recovery Prospects
With the conclusion of the India-US trade deal, tariffs have been reduced to 18%, offering a much-needed respite for exporters. The SEAI expressed confidence that this adjustment will lead to a rebound in shipments.
"We are confident that with the conclusion of the trade deal and lowering of tariffs to 18%, the quantum of export of seafood from India to the US will show an increase and soon reach back to the previous levels," the association stated.
This tariff rollback is expected to help stabilise trade flows and revive shipments to the US, which accounts for a significant share of India's marine exports. Exporters are optimistic that the reduced duties will restore the competitive edge of Indian seafood in the American market.
Government Support and Industry Gratitude
The SEAI welcomed the role played by the Indian government in finalising the trade agreement. The industry body noted that exporters have endured a difficult period since August 2025 and extended thanks to the finance ministry and officials from the department of financial services for their support during the downturn.
SEAI president G Pawan Kumar emphasised, "The efforts put in by them motivate us in our endeavours to take Indian seafood to the top position in global markets."
This collaborative effort between the government and the industry is seen as a crucial step towards not only recovering lost ground but also enhancing India's position in the global seafood export landscape. The anticipated recovery in US-bound shipments is expected to contribute positively to the overall health of India's marine export sector.
