Kerala charts course for sustainable seafood sector with new management plan

Kerala's seafood sector is moving to balance resource conservation with commercial growth through a newly launched sustainability programme that prioritises responsible fishing practices and global market expansion. The initiatives were unveiled at an annual stakeholder consultation organised by the Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI) on Willingdon Island, bringing together government officials, marine scientists, exporters and environmental organisations. Industry representatives said the coordinated approach signals the sector's commitment to long-term viability alongside environmental stewardship. A key component of the plan involves pursuing Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for Kerala's prominent shrimp and cephalopod fisheries, positioning the state's products as sustainably sourced in international markets. The certification pathway addresses growing consumer and retailer demands for traceable, responsibly harvested seafood. Scientists at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have prepared a draft state fisheries management plan featuring science-based harvest controls and gear restrictions. The measures target prevention of juvenile fish overfishing while enhancing the long-term productivity of marine stocks. Complementing these efforts, stakeholders agreed to implement a digital tracking framework to enhance supply chain transparency and demonstrate compliance with sustainability standards. The multi-stakeholder roadmap reflects Kerala's strategy to maintain its position as a major seafood exporter while addressing environmental concerns that increasingly influence international trade.