Paradip: Odisha’s seafood industry is increasingly making its presence felt in international markets, with indigenous marine fish varieties from the state finding strong demand beyond the traditional export market for prawns.
Among the varieties gaining popularity, Borei or croaker fish from Paradip has emerged as a major export product, particularly in countries across the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Government data indicates that approximately 8.568 million kg of Borei fish has been exported from Paradip over the past eight years, highlighting the growing international demand for the indigenous variety.
Borei Fish Gains Popularity Overseas
Odisha’s coastal waters are home to several indigenous marine fish varieties, including Borei, Paniakhia and Kantia. These varieties are increasingly being shipped to overseas markets, with exporters reporting strong demand from countries in the Middle East and Asia.
The oily variety of Borei is particularly sought after in international markets. Its scales are also reportedly used in the preparation of traditional soups, adding to the commercial value of the fish.
A Paradip-based fisherman, Kambal P, said that several varieties of locally available fish are being exported to foreign countries.
“Various types of fish are being exported to foreign countries. There is no harm in consuming them. People here are consuming the fish available locally, while these healthy varieties are being sent abroad,” he said.
China and Middle East Among Key Markets
Seafood exporters from Paradip said Borei is being shipped to several international destinations, including China and countries in the Middle East.
Duryodhan Ray, a seafood exporter from Paradip, said there are three varieties of Borei that are commonly exported.
“There are three varieties of Borei, and we usually export all of them to China and countries in the Middle East,” he said.
He added that demand extends beyond Borei, with cuttlefish, jellyfish, ribbon fish and octopus also attracting buyers in overseas markets.
Paradip Emerges as Major Seafood Export Hub
The growing export of indigenous fish highlights the expanding role of Paradip Fish Harbour as an important fishing and seafood trading centre in India.
According to government data, around 8.568 million kg of Borei or croaker fish was exported from Paradip during the last eight years.
During the same period, the harbour also recorded exports of significant quantities of ribbon fish, sole fish, Paniakhia and Kantia.
The diversity of seafood exported from Paradip is even broader, with products from 81 marine species reportedly reaching international markets. These include commercially important varieties such as prawns, crabs, octopus, lobster and squid.
Boost for Odisha’s Marine Economy
The rising international demand for Odisha’s indigenous fish varieties could provide additional opportunities for the state’s fishing communities, seafood processors and exporters.
While prawns have traditionally dominated India’s seafood export industry, the growing popularity of lesser-known marine species demonstrates the potential for product diversification and greater value addition in Odisha’s fisheries sector.
With Paradip serving as a major gateway for seafood exports, the expanding overseas market for indigenous fish could further strengthen Odisha’s position in the global seafood supply chain.
