Gujarat’s Fish Economy Surges with Record Production, Rising Exports and Major State Investment

Marine output averages 8.56 lakh MT; export value jumps nearly tenfold to ₹6,087 crore

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Gujarat’s fisheries sector is witnessing a powerful expansion, driven by rising marine output, rapid export growth, and sustained government support. With the longest coastline in India — 2,340 km — the State has cemented its position as the second-largest marine fish producer in the country.

Government data show a dramatic rise in export earnings: from ₹625 crore in 2001 to over ₹6,000 crore in 2023–24, reflecting nearly tenfold growth in two decades.

Marine Production Nears 8.56 Lakh MT

Over the last four years, Gujarat has maintained an average marine fish output of 8.56 lakh metric tonnes, supported by robust fishing infrastructure, deep-sea operations, and a vibrant coastal economy.

A major centre of this activity is the Dholai Port on the Ambika River in Navsari.

Dholai Port: Heart of the Marine Boom

Built in 1995 and operated by the Department of Fisheries since 2007, Dholai Port now receives hundreds of fishing boats daily. Fishermen report dramatically improved income stability as the sector expands.

Boat owner Narsibhai Tandel said that fishermen travel 100–125 nautical miles offshore to bring back fresh catch and sell it at the port or in local markets. The gains extend beyond boat owners: a large network of women traders rely on the daily landings for their livelihood, highlighting the sector’s broad social footprint.

₹1,622 Crore Fisheries Package Fuels Modernisation

The Gujarat government has rolled out a ₹1,622 crore fisheries development package aimed at upgrading the entire marine supply chain. Key components include:

• Expanded shrimp production
• Strengthened cold storage and freezing capacity
• Promotion of cage culture
• Support for by-product processing units
• Improved harbour and post-harvest infrastructure

The package is designed to modernise operations, reduce post-harvest loss, and enhance export competitiveness.

Port Economy Boosts Traders & Women Entrepreneurs

Local trader Sushilaben explained that traders buy fish directly from boats and sell them forward on commission, typically earning ₹5–₹10 per bundle. Many also purchase additional stock for personal resale to other traders in the region, reflecting the dynamic micro-economy that has grown around Gujarat’s ports.

Exports Continue Charting New Highs

Between 2001–02 and 2023–24:

• Export quantity increased from 1.32 lakh MT to 3.37 lakh MT
• Export value surged from ₹625.72 crore to ₹6,087 crore

This growth underscores Gujarat’s rising prominence in India’s global seafood trade, particularly in frozen shrimp, cuttlefish, squid, and value-added fish products.

Future-Ready Marine Economy

Gujarat’s fisheries sector today stands at the intersection of traditional skills and modern technology. With state-backed investment, improved infrastructure, and growing export opportunities, the coastal economy is generating new avenues for fishermen, women traders, processors, and exporters.

The State aims to deepen this momentum by building a resilient, technology-driven, globally competitive marine sector that empowers fishing communities while strengthening India’s seafood footprint worldwide.