Vizag Port Emerges Top Port For India's Seafood Exports Of 3 Lakh Tonnes in FY24

Visakhapatnam, Jun 25 (KNN) In a significant development for India's maritime trade, Visakhapatnam Port has emerged as the country's premier seafood exporting gateway for the fiscal year 2023-24.

The port handled an impressive 3.14 lakh tonnes of seafood shipments, valued at Rs 17,984 crore, according to a statement released by port officials on Monday.

This achievement places Visakhapatnam Port at the forefront of India's seafood export sector, outperforming other major ports in the country.

The Mumbai-based Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) secured the second position, managing over 2.4 lakh tonnes of seafood exports valued at Rs 6,396 crore. Cochin Port rounded out the top three, handling more than 1.81 lakh tonnes worth Rs 6,120 crore.

Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) secretary T Venu Gopal highlighted the port's strategic importance, stating, "This achievement positions Visakhapatnam Port at the forefront of the nation's seafood export sector."

The success of Visakhapatnam Port is attributed in part to Andhra Pradesh's growing aquaculture ecosystem, particularly the production of the 'vannamei' shrimp variety. Additionally, seafood exports from neighboring Odisha routed through the port have contributed to its stellar performance.

On a national scale, India's seafood exports reached an all-time high of nearly 18 lakh tonnes in FY 2023-24, valued at Rs 60,534 crore.

This record was achieved despite challenges in overseas demand, with India successfully exporting seafood to 132 countries.

The United States and China emerged as the leading importers, with frozen shrimp being the most exported commodity.

The remarkable performance of Visakhapatnam Port not only underscores its efficiency in handling large volumes but also highlights its significant contribution to India's thriving seafood industry.

As the sector continues to grow, the port's role in facilitating exports is expected to remain crucial for the country's maritime trade.

(KNN Bureau)