Kerala-EU Partnership Key to Boosting Trade and Market Access: Fisheries Minister

Speedy Summary:

• Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh addressed the Kerala-European Union Conclave, “Blue Tides,” in Kovalam.
• He emphasized the potential of Kerala-EU partnerships to expand trade and market access,specifically for shrimp exports,benefiting coastal communities and seafood processors.
• The Indian fisheries sector focuses on traceability and contaminant control to meet EU standards in food safety.
• Fisheries projects worth ₹1,346 crore have been approved under Pradhan Mantri Matsya sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in Kerala over five years. These include production enhancement,infrastructure growth,cold chain facilities,climate resilience initiatives,disease management measures,and livelihood security programs.
• Kerala has emerged as a model state for installing artificial reefs under PMMSY and adopting eco-kind practices.
• Fish production in India has increased from 9.6 million tonnes (2013-14) to 19.5 million tonnes (2024-25), making India the second-largest fish producer globally as well as a top aquaculture nation with exports valued at $7.45 billion annually.
• union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted India’s commitment to sustainable development through innovative blue economy schemes.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The conclave underscores India’s proactive approach toward leveraging its growing blue economy by fostering international partnerships like those with the EU. Trade expansion opportunities-particularly regarding shrimp exports-could bolster employment among coastal communities while generating considerable foreign exchange benefits. With projects exceeding ₹1,346 crore under PMMSY aiming at holistic fisheries sector growth-from modernized infrastructure to ecological sustainability-Kerala’s innovations set an example nationwide.

India’s surge in fish production aligns with its broader agenda of emerging as a global aquaculture leader-a testament to effective modernization efforts combined with sustainability-focused policies. However,ensuring continuous adherence to stringent food safety norms demanded by markets like the EU will remain critical for maximizing export potential going forward.

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