The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) signed between India and the United Kingdom in July 2025 is set to significantly transform India’s seafood export landscape. With the elimination of the 8.9% export duty, Indian seafood is poised to become more competitive in the UK market, potentially tripling current export values within the next three years.
Key Highlights of the Deal
- Export Boost: India’s seafood exports to the UK, currently valued at ₹1,000 crore ($120 million), are projected to rise to ₹3,000 crore ($360 million) due to the removal of export duties.
- Pricing Advantage: Indian seafood will be about 8-9% cheaper, offering UK buyers better pricing and increasing Indian exporters’ edge over global competitors.
- Strategic Agreement: The India-UK CETA provides duty-free access to 99% of Indian exports, covering a wide range of sectors including marine products.
Why It Matters
The UK imports $5.4 billion worth of seafood annually, making it a key target market for India. The removal of export duties creates an enormous opportunity for Indian seafood exporters to capture a larger share of this market. The deal is also expected to support coastal economies, especially Gujarat, which with its 2,300 km coastline, plays a pivotal role in seafood production.
Economic and Social Impact
- Shrimp Focus: Shrimp dominates India’s seafood export portfolio, accounting for 70% of total marine exports. Increased UK demand is likely to benefit this segment significantly.
- Fishermen’s Welfare: Better export prices are expected to trickle down to the grassroots, enabling fishermen to receive improved returns for their catch.
- Rural Empowerment: As coastal economies thrive, the overall livelihood of fishing communities is expected to improve through increased income and employment.
Key Data Snapshot: India-UK Seafood Trade
| Metric | Current Value | Projected Value | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Exports to UK | ₹1,000 crore ($120 million) | ₹3,000 crore ($360 million) | Expected to triple in 3 years |
| Export Duty | 8.9% | 0% | Duty removal under CETA |
| UK Seafood Import Market | — | $5.4 billion | Major opportunity for Indian exporters |
| Price Competitiveness Gain | — | 8–9% cheaper | Due to removal of export duty |
| Share of Shrimp in Exports | 70% | — | Dominant product in India’s seafood exports |
| Gujarat’s Coastline Contribution | 2,300 km | Increasing | Significant source of export supply |
| Duty-Free Access for Indian Exports | — | 99% under CETA | Includes marine and processed food sectors |
Conclusion
India’s seafood sector is entering a phase of exponential growth, powered by favorable trade policies and increasing global demand. The India-UK trade deal is not only a strategic win for exporters but also a livelihood enhancer for thousands of coastal fishermen. As implementation progresses, India is set to emerge as a stronger player in the global seafood supply chain.
Glottis Limited 
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