Visakhapatnam Port has emerged as the primary gateway for seafood exports in India, surpassing all other ports in fiscal 2023-24. According to a spokesperson from the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA), the port handled an impressive shipment of 314,000 tonnes of seafood valued at Rs 179.84 billion during this period. This achievement solidifies Visakhapatnam Port's position as the leading hub for marine product shipments in the country.

In comparison, Mumbai-based Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) managed over 2.040,000 tonnes of seafood valued at Rs 63.96 billion, securing the second position, while Cochin Port followed closely in third place with over 181,000 tonnes valued at Rs 61.20 billion.

"This fiscal year, Visakhapatnam Port has established itself as India's premier port for seafood exports, handling an unprecedented volume that underscores its pivotal role in the nation's seafood industry," stated VPA secretary T Venu Gopal in a press release.

The robust performance of Visakhapatnam Port is attributed to several factors, including Andhra Pradesh's thriving aquaculture sector, particularly in the production of 'vannamei' shrimp variety, which has significantly bolstered exports. Additionally, seafood exports from Odisha through the port have also contributed to its exceptional performance.

Despite global challenges in overseas demand, India achieved a record-high seafood export of nearly 1.8 million tonnes worth Rs 605.34 billion in the previous fiscal year. This remarkable feat highlights the resilience and competitiveness of India's seafood industry, with exports reaching 132 countries, prominently led by the US and China as major importers. Frozen shrimp remains the most exported commodity from the country.

Venu Gopal highlighted Visakhapatnam Port's strategic importance and operational efficiency in managing substantial volumes of seafood exports, reinforcing its critical role in supporting the growth trajectory of India's seafood sector.

(Source: ET)