Commerce Ministry warns of negative impact on marine exports from US Tariffs

NEW DELHI : The Ministry of Commerce and Industry on Monday told Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that marine exports are likely to be “negatively” impacted by the 50% US tariff, as it places India at a disadvantage compared to competitors like Ecuad…

India’s marine exports are likely to come under severe pressure following the United States’ decision to impose a steep 50% tariff on seafood and related products, the Commerce Ministry has cautioned.

According to ministry officials, the additional duty—announced recently as part of Washington’s trade measures—will significantly raise costs for Indian exporters, threatening their competitiveness in the world’s largest seafood market. India has been among the top suppliers of shrimp and other marine products to the US, with the sector contributing substantially to the country’s overall export basket.

“The new tariff will negatively impact export volumes and profitability for India’s marine sector, which is already grappling with rising input costs and global demand fluctuations,” a senior ministry official said.

Industry experts point out that the move could trigger a decline in India’s seafood shipments to the US, forcing exporters to seek alternative markets in Europe, East Asia, and the Middle East. The measure is also expected to have ripple effects on coastal economies, particularly in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Odisha, and Kerala, where a large number of livelihoods depend on marine exports.

The Commerce Ministry has indicated that it is closely monitoring the situation and exploring avenues for dialogue with the US trade authorities. “We are assessing the extent of the impact and will consider appropriate measures to safeguard the interests of Indian exporters,” the ministry noted in its statement.

India’s seafood exports had crossed USD 8 billion in FY25, with the US accounting for a significant share. The tariff hike, analysts warn, could reduce that growth trajectory and undermine India’s efforts to expand its share in global seafood markets.