Govt Issues Guidelines for Seaweed Imports to Boost Coastal Economies and Environmental Safety

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has introduced new ‘Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India,’ aiming to expand India’s seaweed industry and drive economic development in coastal villages. Designed to empower fisher communities and boost their livelihoods, the guidelines prioritize environmental and biosecurity standards.

These guidelines enable the import of high-quality seaweed seed material, providing domestic farmers with reliable access to premium seed stocks, a major hurdle in the industry, particularly with the commercially valuable Kappaphycus species. By addressing the seed shortage, the government hopes to foster a sustainable, thriving seaweed sector, positioning India competitively in the global market.

Through the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the government aims to elevate seaweed production to over 1.12 million tonnes by 2025. A Multipurpose Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu, funded with Rs 127.7 crore, is a major initiative under this scheme. Both the park and the new guidelines are expected to drive sustainable seaweed cultivation, support economic development, and encourage innovation within the industry.

Key components of the guidelines include thorough biosecurity checks, quarantine protocols, and risk assessments to prevent pest and disease introduction. These measures ensure transparency and accountability in the import process, aligning with India’s commitment to environmental protection.

Additionally, the introduction of new seaweed strains promises to diversify production, particularly of red, brown, and green algae varieties, creating further opportunities for downstream processing and value-added products. This move is expected to generate new income streams in coastal villages, supporting India’s push for higher exports and global seaweed industry participation.

Under the guidelines, importers must submit applications to the Department of Fisheries, with the National Committee on Exotic Aquatic Species overseeing review and approval. Permits are granted within four weeks, streamlining access to superior seaweed germplasm.

The Ministry is calling on researchers, entrepreneurs, and farmers to seize these opportunities, driving both economic progress and environmental sustainability in India’s growing seaweed sector.