The Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI) president, Pawan Kumar, emphasized the importance of strengthening trade relations between India and South Korea, particularly in the seafood sector.

Speaking during a workshop on Knowledge Building on Korean Best Practices in Aqua and Seafood processing and a bilateral partnership dialogue organized by the Federation of Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FAPCCI) in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), Kumar advocated for the inclusion of seafood products in the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between the two countries. This initiative aims to facilitate easier access to the South Korean market and significantly boost Indian seafood exports.

Dr. N Yuvaraj, Secretary, Commerce and Industries, Govt. of AP highlighted the state's potential in food processing and aquaculture, emphasizing their potential to contribute significantly to the national GDP. He stressed the importance of knowledge sharing and collaboration with South Korea, which boasts advanced technologies and expertise in seafood processing.

During a keynote address, Woochan Chang, the India Country Director at the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), highlighted the importance of maintaining stringent standards and regulations to ensure the sustainability of the marine ecosystem. He commended South Korea's seafood industry for its focus on efficiency, quality, and innovation, achieved through cutting-edge technologies and rigorous quality control measures.

CH Kishore Kumar, Member, Managing Committee, FAPCCI said the food processing industry, particularly the seafood processing sector, has been recognized as a key driver of industrial growth in Andhra Pradesh. This sector presents significant opportunities for small businesses.

Technical sessions featured presentations from South Korean experts on various best practices in aqua and seafood processing. These included discussions on fish feed, drying and salting techniques, shrimp breeding technology, disease prevention methods, and innovative fish waste utilization practices. Additionally, Korean standards for hygiene and safety in shrimp imports were addressed.

Ms. Sudipta Bhadra, Chief Technical Advisor, Promoting Sustainable Enterprises in India (PSEI) ILO said this workshop acknowledged the value of such collaborative sessions in facilitating knowledge sharing and promoting the adoption of best practices for the benefit of the global aqua and seafood processing sector.

This workshop served as a stepping stone towards strengthening India-South Korea collaboration and potentially unlocking new opportunities for Indian seafood exporters in the South Korean market.

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