Kochi

Union Minister of State for Fisheries, George Kurian, on Thursday said that India’s seaweed production has seen a near threefold increase over the past decade, rising from 18,890 tonnes in 2015 to 74,083 tonnes in 2024.

Kurian was speaking at the inauguration of the 7th India International Seaweed Expo and Summit held at the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). He highlighted the country’s potential for major expansion in seaweed cultivation and seaweed-based industries, describing the sector as a key driver of sustainable livelihoods and coastal development.

He added that government initiatives are being focused on scaling up cultivation, enhancing processing capabilities, and creating employment opportunities, particularly for fishers and women in coastal regions.

The minister also noted that seaweed has been included as a target output under the PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, which spans 100 aspirational districts. In Kerala, the districts of Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod have been selected for this initiative.

The two-day event is jointly organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce, CMFRI, and the Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI). Dr B K Behera, Chief Executive of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), stressed the importance of setting up large-scale processing units to support commercial production and urged greater collaboration among ministries and government bodies to accelerate the sector’s growth.

The summit showcased a wide range of seaweed species and products in wet and dried forms, highlighting the industrial potential of seaweeds. It also provided a platform for business networking, connecting scientists, investors, entrepreneurs, and diplomats.

ALSO READ: I received my wages for hard work of decades: Ghafruddin on Padma Shri

Over 10 countries, including the US, Russia, Australia, France, Scotland, Ireland, the Maldives, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania, are participating in the summit, underlining India’s growing international engagement in the seaweed industry.