Boosting Seafood Exports: A New PLI Scheme for MSMEs

The Fisheries Department is considering a PLI scheme for MSMEs in seafood to enhance international competitiveness. This initiative aims to increase valued-added seafood exports and expand exporters from 1,200 to 5,000. The government has emphasized infrastructure, research, and market strategies, alongside addressing safety and compliance in aquaculture.

The Fisheries Department is assessing the potential of establishing a production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme specifically for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) within the seafood sector, according to an official statement released on Thursday.

This initiative is designed to bolster international competitiveness by enhancing export-oriented infrastructure, encouraging technological advancement, supporting research, and promoting value addition, as per the statement. "The Department of Fisheries will examine the development of a dedicated PLI scheme targeting MSMEs in the seafood industry," the commerce ministry announced.

The proposed framework seeks to significantly increase the contribution of value-added seafood products to India's total seafood exports and aims to grow the exporter base from around 1,200 to 5,000 over the coming years. India's marine products exports have reached an unprecedented high of Rs 72,325.82 crore during the fiscal year 2025-26.