India’s shrimp export sector posted a pointy rebound within the first 5 months of FY26, logging an 18 per cent rise in export earnings to $2.43 billion, pushed by robust demand from non-US markets whilst American tariffs weighed on shipments.
Non-US markets energy export revival
Based on a brand new CareEdge Scores report, export volumes climbed 11 per cent to three.48 lakh metric tonnes, marking one of many strongest begins to a monetary yr for the seafood business. The surge got here as consumers in Vietnam, Belgium, China, Russia and the Center East broadened their sourcing, serving to India offset losses within the US – historically the largest marketplace for Indian shrimp.
The worth share of non-US locations expanded from 51 per cent final yr to 57 per cent, underscoring a decisive shift in India’s export footprint.
Tariff shock erodes competitiveness in US market
The report highlighted that India’s exports to the US got here below acute stress as a consequence of steep anti-dumping duties. Between April and August 2025, Indian shrimp confronted an efficient tariff of round 18 per cent, in contrast with 13–14 per cent for rivals similar to Ecuador and Indonesia.
After August, the tariff burden shot as much as 58 per cent, eroding India’s value competitiveness and triggering a 35 per cent fall in US-bound shipments in August alone. This compelled exporters to speed up diversification efforts.
Vietnam, Belgium, China emerge as new progress engines
Vietnam’s imports of Indian shrimp doubled to $ 0.18 billion, cementing its rise as a significant re-export hub for international seafood commerce. Belgium too noticed its imports double to $ 0.14 billion, supported by stronger EU demand and compliance enhancements by Indian exporters.
China already the biggest non-US purchaser registered a steady 16 per cent progress, whereas Japan’s re-processing business continued sourcing steadily from India. Rising curiosity from Russia and the Gulf area has additional broadened India’s market base.
