India seafood exports to UK get tariff-free access under CETA

The UK remains an important market for Indian seafood, driven by demand from the large Indian diaspora and a growing consumer preference for processed products, particularly shrimp, fish, and squid. Frozen shrimp accounted for 80.9% of total seafood exports to the UK, with an export value of $103.72 million. Frozen fish contributed 5.5% of exports, valued at $7.12 million during the same period.

Under CETA, 99% of tariff lines will enjoy zero-duty access. Key marine products such as Vannamei shrimp, black tiger shrimp, frozen squid, lobsters, and frozen pomfret will now benefit from duty-free market access. Indian exporters will see the elimination of tariffs ranging from 4.2% to 21.5% on a wide range of marine products.

The preferential access is expected to improve the competitiveness of Indian seafood in the UK, boost export volumes, and create new opportunities across the seafood value chain. D'Cruz said the agreement should also encourage investment in value-added products, promote skill development, and generate better employment prospects for coastal communities dependent on the fisheries sector.