India moves toward MSC certification for 10 marine species

INDIA – India is working toward securing Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for 10 marine species, a process that officials say could reshape the country’s seafood export profile.

The first certification is expected by 2026, with industry experts noting that some species may receive approval as early as next year.

The update was shared during a technical session at World Food India, organized by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), the Sustainable Seafood Network India (SSNI), and the Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI).

According to MSC India’s Dr. Ranjit Suseelan, assessments for shrimp, squid, cuttlefish, and octopus are already at advanced stages, placing them among the first in line for certification.

Why certification matters

Globally, seafood carrying the MSC eco-label can sell for up to 30 percent more, based on MSC figures.

Such recognition also helps exporters meet requirements in markets like the United States, the European Union, and Japan, where environmental standards are increasingly tied to trade.

SEAI representative Abraham Tharakan said eco-labels increase buyer confidence and provide leverage for exporters in negotiations with international buyers.

Institutional and government backing

The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and the Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT) are playing a leading role in the technical groundwork.

The Department of Fisheries is also weighing financial support through the upcoming Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) 2.0 scheme.

Senior department official Dr. Nilesh Pawar confirmed that allocations for stock research, assessments, and traceability measures are under consideration.

CMFRI Director D. Grinson George added that the institute is aligning its monitoring systems with international fisheries management standards.

Broader impact on fisheries

Supporters of the initiative argue that the move could deliver benefits beyond exports, particularly for small-scale fishing communities and marine ecosystems.

MSC Programme Director Michael Marriott pointed to global data showing that 37.7 percent of fish stocks are overexploited, compared to healthier populations in certified fisheries.

Industry stakeholders also stressed that certification could help safeguard long-term fishing livelihoods, create more equitable market opportunities, and ensure resources are used responsibly.

With assessments nearing completion and government participation increasing, India is positioning itself to expand its role in the global sustainable seafood trade.

If the first species receives certification by 2026, it could set a precedent for more approvals across different regions and fisheries in the country.

For exporters, certification is becoming less of an option and more of a requirement as sustainability standards gain weight in international trade agreements.

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