Indian Fisheries Set for MSC Certification

Summary of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Certification for Indian Marine and Saline Fish

Key Facts:

• Global Certification: Approximately 10 Indian marine and saline fish and shrimp varieties are set to receive the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification, with the first batch targeted for submission in 2026.
• Revenue Impact: Expected to increase fisheries sector revenue by 30%.
• Sustainable Practices: Certification aims to encourage ecologically sustainable fishing practices, ensuring steady incomes for fishing communities.

Government Support:

• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): The Union Government will subsidize the MSC certification process, which will be conducted by third-party auditors.

Market Opportunities:

• The certification provides access to affluent markets like Europe and Japan, which demand sustainably sourced seafood.
• MSC-certified products can fetch a price premium of up to 30% in international markets.

Key Fish Varieties Under Assessment:

1. Gillnet-caught blue swimming crab
2. Trawl-caught karikadi shrimp
3. Trawl-caught Indian nylon shrimp (Deep Sea Shrimp)
4. Trawl-caught Indian squid
5. Trawl-caught poovalan shrimp
6. Trawl-caught pharaoh cuttlefish
7. Trawl-caught webfoot octopus
8. Trawl-caught flower shrimp
9. Thread fin bream fishery

Additional Targeted Species:

• Grouper Fish from Kanyakumari
• Skipjack Tuna from Lakshadweep Islands
• Spiny Lobster from Kanyakumari
• Flower Shrimp from Gulf of Mannar
• Oil Sardine from Kollam, Kerala
• Ashtamudi Clam from Kerala (previously certified)
• Mud Crab and Scylla Serrata from Chilika Lake, Odisha

Technical and Regulatory Framework:

• The certification process is based on the FAO's Code of Conduct for Responsible Fishing and Guidelines for Eco-labeling of Fish and Fishery Products from Marine Capture Fisheries.
• Experts are currently addressing technical gaps, including stock assessments for various seafood/caught species.

Global Context:

• Currently, 20% of global fisheries are MSC certified.
• The Ashtamudi Clam, the first variety to receive MSC certification, is undergoing re-certification.

Economic Contribution:

• Fisheries certifications are expected to enhance India’s seafood export potential and help overcome trade barriers in global markets, boosting India’s bargaining power in seafood trade.

This initiative is projected to significantly bolster the Indian fisheries sector, providing long-term economic stability and promoting sustainable fishery practices in line with international standards.