New Delhi: European Union included India in its revised draft list for continued aquaculture exports to the European market from September 2026. The decision addressed concerns raised after India’s omission from an earlier regulation issued in October 2024. Officials said the revised draft recognised India’s compliance with updated EU food safety and antimicrobial rules.
The revised list followed measures implemented under European Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/905. The regulation requires exporting countries to ensure that animal products remain free from restricted antimicrobial substances. The European Commission stated that countries included in the updated list had provided necessary guarantees and compliance assurances under EU standards.
Officials said the proposed inclusion reflected confidence in India’s food safety systems and residue monitoring framework. Once the European Commission formally adopts the revised regulation, Indian exporters are expected to continue uninterrupted access to the EU market beyond September 2026. The decision is considered a major development for the seafood sector.
Aquaculture exports and EU seafood trade growth
The European Union emerged as India’s third-largest destination for seafood trade during 2025-26. Exports accounted for 18.94 per cent of the total export value and reached US$1.593 billion. Export value increased by 41.45 per cent, while export quantity rose by 38.29 per cent over the previous year. Farmed shrimp remained the leading product shipped to the region.
The government said organisations such as Marine Products Export Development Authority and Export Inspection Council played a major role in strengthening compliance systems. Authorities expanded the National Residue Control Programme, testing systems, and surveillance mechanisms for banned substances. They also conducted awareness and training programmes for stakeholders.
Officials stated that India improved traceability systems, veterinary monitoring, and quality assurance measures in seafood production. They added that continued technical engagement between India and the European Union supported the revised decision on aquaculture exports. The government expects the development to support export growth, employment generation, and foreign exchange earnings.
