Lakshadweep’s traditional tuna fisheries are gaining global attention, as a delegation of seafood traders and experts from the US, Thailand, South Korea, the Maldives, Vietnam, and Austria explores sourcing and export opportunities in the island chain. This visit signifies a potential breakthrough for the region’s marine economy, which has been historically limited by logistics and market access challenges. The delegation engaged with local fishers, fishermen cooperative societies, and seafood entrepreneurs on islands like Kavaratti, Agatti, Minicoy, and Androth.
Delegates focused on Lakshadweep’s pole-and-line tuna fishery, recognized worldwide as an eco-friendly fishing method. They praised the premium quality of tuna caught in the islands’ pristine waters and showed interest in both fresh and processed exports. In addition to raw tuna, the visitors investigated value-added products such as frozen loins, ready-to-cook formats, and masmin, a traditional dried tuna delicacy with niche demand in global markets.
The rising global preference for sustainably sourced seafood has boosted the commercial appeal of Lakshadweep tuna, especially in high-value markets across East Asia, Europe, and North America. A crucial aspect of the proposed business plan involves using mother vessels equipped with advanced cold storage and handling facilities. These vessels are expected to ensure export-grade quality through immediate chilling and hygienic handling at sea, addressing the islanders’ longstanding need for improved marine logistics.
The introduction of mother vessels is anticipated to decrease post-harvest losses, enhance price realization for fishers, and improve the overall efficiency of export operations. The delegation also engaged with the Lakshadweep Administration and the Department of Fisheries, focusing on regulatory support, infrastructure enhancement, and streamlined export processes. These discussions are viewed as an initial step towards establishing formal trade agreements and long-term collaborations with international buyers.
The visit was organized by the Androth Island Fishermen Cooperative Society (AIFCS) and led by Jayendran Muthusankar of NS Seafoods, a Thailand-based global seafood buyer. Muthusankar expressed optimism about Lakshadweep’s potential to become a hub for sustainable tuna fisheries and value addition, emphasizing responsible fishing practices and exceptional product quality. AIFCS President Mohammed Althaf Husain highlighted the positive impact of international partnerships on the island’s fishing community, expecting improved livelihoods, investments in processing infrastructure, and a stronger position in the global premium tuna value chain.
