India, the largest supplier of shrimp to the US, has vehemently denied allegations of human rights and environmental abuses at its shrimp farms. The Commerce Ministry is taking steps to counter attempts to tarnish India’s global reputation in the seafood market.
Shrimps are a key component of India’s exports, with $5.6 billion worth of shipments in 2022-23. However, a report by the Corporate Accountability Lab (CAL) raised concerns about working conditions in shrimp hatcheries, ponds, and peeling sheds.
Senior officials have refuted these claims, highlighting that India’s entire shrimp export value chain is certified by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA). They assert that the allegations are driven by vested interests aiming to damage India’s aquaculture sector.
With nearly 70% of India’s shrimp output coming from Andhra Pradesh, the Ministry plans to boost seafood exports to ₹1 lakh crore by 2025-26. To address the allegations, exporters may commission independent studies on working conditions. Additionally, the Andhra Pradesh government has been urged to investigate the CAL report’s claims.
Officials argue that the CAL report selectively highlights isolated incidents without verifying their authenticity. They stress that India’s shrimp farming and processing sector complies with international regulations, monitored by regulatory agencies and auditors such as the USFDA, European Commission, and China’s GAC.
The Ministry’s proactive measures aim to safeguard India’s reputation in global markets and reassure consumers of the integrity of its shrimp exports. As India continues to dominate the US shrimp market, efforts to address concerns about working conditions are crucial for sustaining its leadership position.