Synopsis: India’s seafood exports hit ~Rs. 68,000 crore, driven by market diversification and value-added products, with the government targeting Rs. 1 lakh crore. Stocks like Avanti Feeds Ltd, Apex Frozen Foods Ltd, and others remain in focus.
The Indian seafood sector is experiencing a significant surge, with exports reaching a new milestone of approximately Rs. 68,000 crore this year, up from Rs. 62,000 crore last year. This growth trajectory has placed major industry players like Avanti Feeds, Apex Frozen Foods, and Kings Infra in the spotlight as the government sets an ambitious target to touch the Rs. 1 lakh crore mark. The momentum is driven by a 7% average annual growth rate over the last decade, with marine product exports more than doubling since 2013-14.
Government Push for Value-Added Exports
During the Seafood Exporters Meet 2026, the Union Ministry emphasised a strategic shift toward value-added seafood. Rather than relying solely on raw exports, the focus is now on ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook segments.
This transition is expected to benefit specialised processors like Apex Frozen Foods and Avanti Feeds, as higher margins in value-added products help buffer against global pricing pressures and fluctuating raw material costs.
Expansion into the EEZ and High Seas
To reduce over-dependence on traditional shrimp farming, India is tapping into the potential of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the high seas. This includes the exploration of high-value species like tuna from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Market Diversification and Compliance
While the United States remains the largest market (accounting for roughly 36% of exports), India is aggressively diversifying into China, the European Union, and Southeast Asia.
To maintain this expansion, the government is mandating strict adherence to antibiotic bans and strengthened traceability systems. Enhanced diplomatic engagement with nearly 40 countries is currently underway to lower trade barriers and promote Indian seafood as a premium, compliant global brand.
Infrastructure and Financial Support
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) continues to be the backbone of this growth, funding modern fishing harbors, cold-chain networks, and quality seed production. Financial institutions like NABARD and NCDC have been urged to provide robust support to exporters to scale up production.
This ecosystem of support is designed to empower fish-meal manufacturers and mariculture projects on the Western Coast, ensuring the supply chain can sustain the journey toward the Rs. 1 lakh crore goal.
Stocks that could benefit from the surge in India’s Seafood Exports are as follows
Kings Infra Ventures Ltd
Kings Infra is focused on aquaculture and value-added seafood products, can benefit from rising export demand and government support. Expansion into global markets and higher demand for premium shrimp and processed seafood can boost its revenues and improve capacity utilisation. With a market capitalisation of Rs. 316 cr, the shares of Kings Infra Ventures Ltd closed at Rs. 129.35 per share, up from its previous close of Rs. 125.75 per share.
Apex Frozen Foods Ltd
Apex Frozen Foods is a major exporter of ready-to-cook shrimp and stands to gain from diversified export markets beyond the US. Increased demand from Europe and Asia can support volume growth, while stable pricing and improved realisations may enhance margins. With a market capitalisation of Rs. 1,458 cr, the shares of Apex Frozen Foods Ltd closed at Rs. 466.75 per share, up from its previous close of Rs. 430.30 per share.
Avanti Feeds Ltd
Avanti Feeds benefits indirectly through higher shrimp farming activity, as export growth boosts demand for shrimp feed. Strong global demand and expansion into new markets can drive higher feed sales and improve overall profitability. With a market capitalisation of Rs. 20,090 cr, the shares of Avanti Feeds Ltd closed at Rs. 1474.55 per share, up from its previous close of Rs. 1392 per share.
Coastal Corporation Ltd
Coastal Corporation is engaged in processing and exporting marine products, can benefit from increased export volumes and government-led market expansion. Diversification into new geographies reduces dependence on the US and supports stable long-term growth. With a market capitalisation of Rs. 352 cr, the shares of Coastal Corporation Ltd closed at Rs. 52.59 per share, up from its previous close of Rs. 50.54 per share.
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