New Delhi pointed out that developed nations provide subsidies averaging $76,000 per fisher per year, while India allocates just $35 annually per fisher. India’s proposal aims to ensure fairer rules for fisheries subsidies by considering the per capita distribution rather than aggregate subsidy amounts. This approach, India argues, is crucial to protect the livelihoods of artisanal and small-scale fishers while promoting sustainable fishing practices.

The proposal will be discussed at the upcoming WTO General Council meeting next week. India contends that the current aggregate-level approach ignores the actual intensity of subsidies and their impact on sustainability, penalizing countries that provide essential, subsistence-level support.

India also invoked the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC), emphasizing that historical subsidizers owe a “subsidy debt” to developing and least-developed countries (LDCs). Developed nations, which have long exploited global fish resources, should therefore be held to stricter disciplines based on their per capita subsidy levels.

In parallel, India remains firm in its stance on agriculture talks at the WTO, prioritizing a permanent solution to public stockholding (PSH) to ensure food security. Indian officials criticized the facilitator-led process for lacking transparency, underscoring the need for member-driven decisions.

The debate comes as developed economies like the US and the EU provide substantial agricultural subsidies—$20 billion and $6 billion, respectively—compared to India’s $416 per capita support for its farmers.

New Delhi is actively building a coalition to oppose any proposals that undermine food security or the livelihoods of small fishers and farmers, asserting that these are “non-negotiable” red lines.

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This initiative forms part of India’s ambitious goal to reach 1.12 million metric tonnes of seaweed production by 2025, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Presently, the country grapples with limited access to quality seaweed seed stocks, particularly for Kappaphycus, the most widely cultivated seaweed species in India.

Additionally, the government has committed Rs 127.7 crore toward establishing a multipurpose seaweed park in Tamil Nadu, which will further stimulate the sector.

The guidelines prioritize environmental sustainability and include post-import monitoring and risk assessment measures to safeguard against potential biosecurity risks.

Beyond production, the initiative is expected to spur research, support downstream processing industries, and create employment in coastal communities.

The Ministry emphasized that the framework will not only enhance economic prospects but also bolster India’s position in the global seaweed market by expanding export potential.

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Andhra Pradesh, the leading producer of whiteleg shrimp, accounted for over 912,000 tonnes in 2023, far surpassing Odisha’s 46,000 tonnes. The budget’s provisions, including financial support for shrimp farming and reduced customs duties on inputs, reflect the growing importance of shrimp in both exports and domestic consumption.

The history of shrimp consumption has evolved over centuries. While shrimp have long been a staple in coastal communities, their fast decomposition and resemblance to insects limited their broader acceptance. However, advances in freezing technology, pioneered by Clarence Birdseye in the 1920s, revolutionized the shrimp industry by preserving their flavour and making them more accessible.

Despite its popularity, the shrimp industry faces challenges, including poor labour practices and environmental concerns, particularly in Asian countries that supply shrimp to markets like the U.S. The recent budget support for shrimp farming in India underscores the industry’s potential, but it also highlights the need for stricter labour and environmental standards.

As technology and financial backing continue to elevate shrimp farming, there is speculation about whether similar advancements could eventually lead to a broader acceptance of other sustainable protein sources, such as edible insects.

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The approved projects span a broad range of activities aimed at expanding the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. These include the development of 29,964 hectares of pond area for inland aquaculture, the establishment of 4,013 Biofloc units, and the installation of 11,995 Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS). Additionally, the plan includes the setup of 50,710 reservoir cages and 543.7 hectares of pens in reservoirs, along with 1,11,110 units of seaweed rafts and monoline units. There will be 1,489 bivalve cultivation units, 720 artificial reef units, and the creation of six Integrated Aquaparks, including a Seaweed Park. The development will also see the construction of 1,040 feed mill units, 54 fishing harbours and fish landing centers, 586 cold storages, 18 wholesale fish markets, 193 fish retail markets, 6,581 fish kiosks, 108 value-added enterprise units, and 26,188 post-harvest transportation units.

PMMSY is designed to promote inclusive development within the fisheries sector. It offers financial assistance up to 60% of the unit cost for SC/ST/Women beneficiaries, compared to 40% for general category beneficiaries. In line with its commitment to empowering women, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying has approved specific projects totalling Rs. 53.74 crore aimed at benefiting women in ornamental culture, seaweed cultivation, and bivalve farming. Notable activities include 499 bivalve cultivation projects, 20,655 seaweed culture rafts, and 631 ornamental units, which will directly benefit 9,392 women.

These approvals reflect the government’s robust commitment to advancing the fisheries sector through substantial investments and targeted support, particularly for marginalized and underrepresented groups.

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In the markets across the city, there has been a noticeable increase in the sale of these juvenile hilsa. Despite the presence of larger hilsa, weighing between 400 and 600 grams, their numbers remain low compared to the influx of smaller fish. Recently, an average of 130 trawlers have been bringing in hauls that are predominantly composed of juvenile hilsa, accounting for 80% of the catch. The remainder consists of larger hilsa and other fish. Although there has been a slight increase in the catch of larger hilsa recently, the overall trend is worrisome.

Ajed Ali Gaji, a local fisherman, shared his concerns, explaining that the economic pressures faced by fishermen, especially during the fishing ban period from April 15 to June 14, have driven them to resort to unsustainable practices. During the ban period, many fishermen were left without income, leading some to illegally fish in the India-Bangladesh river border areas during Eid, taking advantage of the relaxed patrols. According to Gaji, around 130 trawlers have been bringing in 2.5 to 3 quintals of juvenile hilsa daily, which are then distributed to various markets including Namkhana, Kakdwip, and Patharpratima, ultimately reaching Diamond Harbour’s Nagendra market and even other regions like Murshidabad, Nadia, and North 24 Parganas.

Bijon Maity, secretary of the Kakdwip Fishermen Association, has expressed strong opposition to the capture of juvenile fish. Despite warnings and discussions, some fishermen continue this practice in secret. Maity, along with Jagannath Sarkar, secretary of Diamond Harbour Hilsa Market, has called for stricter enforcement to stop the buying and selling of small fish. Sarkar emphasized the need for immediate action to address this issue.

Debasish De, principal scientist at the Kakdwip Research Centre of ICAR, the Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture, highlighted the importance of adhering to regulations, particularly the use of 90 cm or 90 mm net mesh, to prevent the capture of juvenile hilsa. He stressed the need for increased awareness and the enforcement of restrictions during key migration periods in Hilsa, which occur from October 15 to November 15 and from the end of February to the end of March. De pointed out that similar restrictions should be applied as those during the current fishing ban period to protect the Hilsa population during these critical times.

The continued use of bottom-trawling with fine mesh nets poses a persistent threat to the Hilsa population in the Ganga estuary. Unless sustainable fishing practices are adopted and enforced, the long-term viability of this important species remains in jeopardy.

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A Reuters report highlights that just ten countries—China, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, the Philippines, South Korea, Norway, Egypt, and Chile—account for nearly 90% of all aquaculture production. Aquaculture, or aquafarming, involves the cultivation of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic plants and algae in controlled environments.

The latest biennial report on the state of world fisheries, released by the Rome-based FAO, indicates that global fisheries and aquaculture production reached a record 223.2 million tonnes in 2022. Of this, aquaculture production alone accounted for an unprecedented 130.9 million tonnes, with 94.4 million tonnes being aquatic animals—51% of the total aquatic animal production.

“These numbers demonstrate the potential for aquaculture to feed the growing world population,” FAO Assistant Director-General Manuel Barange told Reuters. “It’s been the fastest-growing food production system in the world for the last five decades,” he added.

The FAO emphasizes the importance of developing the aquaculture industry in other regions, especially Africa, which is currently a net importer of fish. Critics, however, warn that aquafarming can harm the environment and introduce disease and invasive species into the wild. The FAO contends that proper regulation and monitoring can mitigate these risks.

The global per capita annual consumption of aquatic animal foods, a crucial protein source for millions worldwide, increased to 20.7 kg in 2022, up from 9.1 kg in 1961. This figure is expected to rise further in the coming years, according to the report.

The haul from captured fisheries has remained stable since the late 1980s, totaling 92.3 million tonnes in 2022. However, recent data shows that 37.7% of fish stocks in the world’s marine fisheries were classified as overfished in 2021, continuing an upward trend from 10% in 1974.

“The issue of sustainability is of great concern to us,” Barange said, noting that many larger commercial fisheries, including tuna stocks, are now approaching 90% levels of sustainability. “This is a remarkable improvement over the last decade,” he said. Barange added that 80% of the top 10 marine species consumed by humans are being sustainably exploited.

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The statement from the ministry comes amidst recent reports raising concerns about food safety and labour conditions within the Indian shrimp industry. It clarified that all seafood units are registered with key regulatory bodies such as the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), ensuring compliance with national laws.

The ministry also highlighted the registration of shrimp hatcheries and aquaculture farms with the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) and State Fisheries Departments, bolstering traceability systems, and adherence to international regulatory provisions like the Seafood Import Monitoring Programme (SIMP) of the US.

To promote safety, the ministry noted the ban on pharmacologically active substances in aquaculture since 2002 and the implementation of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)-based food safety management systems. Additionally, stringent monitoring measures, including the National Residue Control Plan and pre-export checks, ensure the exclusion of food safety hazards from the product value chain.

The ministry underscored its commitment to worker welfare through extensive training programs on sanitary practices and food safety hazards. Entities involved in seafood processing are obligated to follow labour welfare laws prescribed by union and state governments.

India’s steadfast commitment to producing quality seafood is evident in its record exports, reaching 17,35,286 tonnes worth Rs 63,969.14 crore (USD 8.09 billion) during the 2022–23 fiscal year. Frozen shrimp remains a significant export item, with the US and China emerging as major importers.

The ministry refuted allegations against the Indian shrimp farming and processing sector, highlighting India’s adherence to sustainable practices and stringent regulatory standards to meet domestic and international market demand for safe and high-quality seafood products.

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The study, analysing data from 2005–06 to 2019–21, revealed a significant increase in the proportion of fish eaters, rising from 66% to 72.1% during the period. Per capita fish consumption also witnessed a notable uptick, climbing from 4.9 kg to 8.9 kg between 2005 and 2020. Among fish consumers, individual consumption surged from 7.4 kg to 12.3 kg.

Notably, regions like Jammu and Kashmir experienced substantial increases in fish consumption, attributed to factors such as improved connectivity and the establishment of cold storage networks. Arunachal Pradesh and Karnataka also saw significant rises in consumption rates.

The study highlighted the growing frequency of fish consumption, with weekly intake showing an 11.3% increase. Kerala emerged as the state with the highest daily fish consumption, followed by Goa and West Bengal. Meanwhile, Assam and Tripura recorded the highest weekly consumption rates.

Gender disparities in fish consumption were observed, with men comprising a higher percentage of fish eaters compared to women, partly attributed to dining habits at hotels and restaurants. Urban areas exhibited greater fish consumption, though rural areas showcased faster growth rates.

Despite an overall increase in non-vegetarian food consumption, fish consumption still lags behind eggs and chicken, particularly in coastal states. However, the study noted a significant rise in weekly fish consumption among lower-income groups, reflecting improved accessibility and availability.

Government initiatives promoting fish farming have contributed to a surge in domestic fish production, yet fish imports have also risen substantially, primarily consisting of value-added products catering to high-end restaurants.

Looking ahead, the study forecasts a potential doubling of annual per capita fish consumption with concerted efforts from both the government and private sectors. India’s growth in fish consumption stands out globally, positioning it among the highest in the World Bank group of lower-middle-income countries.

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While the exact value of the deal remains undisclosed, Gowda revealed that Captain Fresh has fully acquired CenSea in a cash-and-stock transaction, with 90% of the consideration paid in cash. With its extensive presence across the United States, CenSea is poised to become the cornerstone of Captain Fresh’s operations in the US market.

Commenting on the acquisition, Gowda emphasized CenSea’s robust supply network, particularly in India and Southeast Asia, where it maintains longstanding relationships with over 100 factory partners. He expressed optimism about leveraging these partnerships to enhance supply capabilities and explore cross-selling opportunities with CenSea’s existing customer base.

The acquisition of CenSea aligns with Captain Fresh’s broader strategy to diversify its operations beyond seafood exportation into distribution in key markets such as the US and Europe. This move follows the recent acquisition of French shrimp distributor Senecrus, further solidifying Captain Fresh’s position as a global player in the seafood industry.

Gowda hinted at additional acquisition plans in the European market, emphasizing their potential to access North Atlantic supply markets. This expansion comes on the heels of Captain Fresh’s successful funding round, which saw the firm raise $25 million led by UK government-backed British International Investment (BII) and Andhra Pradesh-based Nekkanti Seafoods Group.

According to Gowda, the funding round, part of a larger $48 million extended funding initiative, valued Captain Fresh at $500 million. With a substantial portion of its business set to originate from the US market in the coming months, Captain Fresh anticipates a significant increase in its presence in both the European and US markets.

While a small fraction of its business currently comes from India, Gowda highlighted the higher earnings potential in international markets, citing earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) margins of 15-20%, compared to 3% in India.

Captain Fresh’s latest acquisition underscores its commitment to expansion and diversification, positioning the company for continued growth and success in the global seafood market.

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India’s submission to the WTO emphasizes the significance of special provisions to shield the interests of poor fishermen and address concerns related to food security. The proposal asserts that exemptions should apply regardless of geographical limitations or the specific activities undertaken by such fishermen. India argues that national authorities should be responsible for determining what qualifies as low-income, resource-poor, or livelihood fishing and related activities.

One key aspect of India’s proposal addresses government-to-government payments for access rights, suggesting that these transactions should be categorized as subsidies. India contends that scrutinizing such payments is crucial to ensuring fair practices in the fishing sector.

The proposal acknowledges that access arrangements can be advantageous for certain WTO members, particularly in developing countries and poorer nations. However, India raises concerns about excluding subsidies linked to the transfer of access rights to vessels, characterizing it as a “blank cheque” for distant water fishing nations operating in the exclusive economic zones or high seas of other countries.

As the WTO gears up for its ministerial meeting next month, India’s proposal adds a significant dimension to the ongoing discussions surrounding global trade policies, with a focus on promoting fairness and protecting the interests of vulnerable fishing communities.

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