Tamil Nadu Sets $5 Billion Seafood Export Target: A Bold Step Towards Becoming a Global Seafood Hub

In a strategic push to strengthen its position in global trade, the Tamil Nadu government has set a $5 billion seafood export goal, unveiling an ambitious plan to transform the state into a global seafood export powerhouse.

The announcement was made at the Tamil Nadu Seafood - Business Connect 2025 event in Chennai, where Industries Minister T.R.B. Rajaa outlined the government’s vision to scale up value-added seafood processing along the state's 1,076-km coastline—the second longest in India.

From Raw Catch to Value-Added Exports

Tamil Nadu’s current seafood exports are primarily composed of raw and unprocessed catch. However, under the leadership of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, the state is now planning to shift its focus towards high-quality, processed seafood products that meet international standards.

“Tamil Nadu aims to become a global seafood export hub. We are no longer content with exporting just raw catch. Our vision is to build end-to-end infrastructure — from processing units to export-grade packaging and cold chain logistics,” said Industries Minister T.R.B. Rajaa.

Key Highlights of the Export Roadmap

The state's new seafood export strategy revolves around four key pillars:

1. Modern Seafood Processing Units

   • Setting up state-of-the-art processing facilities in key coastal districts.

   • Focus on producing export-ready, hygienic, and high-value seafood.

2. Efficient Cold Chain Logistics

   • Developing a robust cold chain network from catch points to ports.

   • Reducing post-harvest loss and improving product shelf-life.

3. Export-Grade Packaging Facilities

   • Establishing packaging units that meet international compliance standards.

   • Supporting branding and traceability of seafood products.

4. Private Sector Partnerships

   • Encouraging global and domestic investment.

   • Facilitating B2B networking through events like Seafood Business Connect.

Tamil Nadu’s Coastal Advantage

With a 1,076-km coastline, 13 coastal districts, and a vibrant marine population, Tamil Nadu is strategically positioned to become India’s seafood export leader. The state already has a strong presence in fisheries and aquaculture, and the government now seeks to capitalize on this by creating an integrated seafood value chain.

Business Connect Event Brings Stakeholders Together

The Tamil Nadu Seafood - Business Connect event served as a critical platform for interaction between:

• Global seafood importers

• Domestic processors and exporters

• Government officials

• Marine researchers and logistics providers

Discussions centered on investment opportunities, technological upgrades, and market expansion to help Tamil Nadu meet its $5 billion export target.

Government Support and Policy Push

To achieve this ambitious goal, the government promises:

• Strategic investments in coastal infrastructure

• Ease of doing business initiatives for seafood exporters

• Export incentives for high-value processed products

• Skill development programs for fisherfolk and seafood workers

A detailed project roadmap will be finalized soon, with a clear implementation timeline and district-wise action plan.

Why This Matters

Globally, the demand for processed and ready-to-cook seafood is growing rapidly. By transitioning from a raw seafood exporter to a value-added producer, Tamil Nadu can:

• Boost rural employment in coastal districts

• Increase foreign exchange earnings

• Strengthen India’s seafood trade competitiveness

• Improve standards in marine sustainability and food safety

Conclusion: A Sea of Opportunity

With the right mix of policy support, infrastructure, and private investment, Tamil Nadu’s $5 billion seafood export goal is not just a vision—it’s an achievable milestone that can elevate the state’s global trade status while empowering coastal communities.

As the state positions itself to lead India's blue economy, all eyes are on how this ambitious plan unfolds over the next few years.