First Chilled Fish Consignment to Oman Under India–Oman CEPA Flagged Off From Chennai

Chennai:

Port Wings News Network:

In a significant boost to India’s seafood export sector, the first chilled fish consignment destined for Oman under the India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was officially flagged off on 1 June,2026 at the Chennai Air Cargo Complex, Chennai Airport.

The historic consignment, exported by M/s. Aqua World Exports Pvt. Ltd., was ceremonially flagged off by Manimegalai Selvam, Assistant Commissioner of Customs, in the presence of A Jeyabal, Joint Director MPEDA, G. Jayapalan Joint Director, EIA Chennai, Subramanian, Assistant Manager, Airport Authority of India, Abhijith, Managing Partner, Aqua World Exports Pvt. Ltd., Chennai, and other officials from Air Customs.

The launch marks a timely, strategic milestone coinciding with the India–Oman CEPA entering into force on 1 June, 2026. The agreement provides an immediate competitive edge to Indian exporters by slashing import duties from 5% to 0% on major marine products like shrimp, fish, and cuttlefish. It also institutes a dedicated Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) framework to fast-track customs clearance for perishables, positioning Oman as a maritime gateway for re-exporting high-value seafood into the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and East African markets.

Tamil Nadu stands out as a prime beneficiary of this landmark agreement. Blessed with an extensive coastline, modern fishing harbors, and advanced processing infrastructure, the state has already established a strong trade footprint with Oman.

During 2024–25, Tamil Nadu exported 2,279 tonnes of seafood to Oman valued at Rs. 25 crore (USD 3.01 million), while provisional data for 2025–26 indicates an ongoing shift toward higher-value products with 647 tonnes exported at Rs.17.35 crore (USD 1.93 million).

The proximity of Chennai and other regional ports to Middle Eastern destinations ensures faster shipment of frozen, live, and chilled items, guaranteeing optimal quality retention and premium market value. The agreement is expected to encourage seafood exporters in Tamil Nadu to expand production, invest in value-added processing, strengthen cold-chain logistics, and explore new product segments tailored to Oman consumer preferences.

This will contribute to increased export earnings, employment generation, and overall growth of the state’s seafood industry. The successful export of the first chilled fish consignment to Oman reflects India’s commitment to expanding high-value seafood exports and strengthening its position in international seafood markets.

It also demonstrates the transformative potential of the India–Oman CEPA in unlocking new opportunities for seafood exporters, particularly those from Tamil Nadu, while further strengthening economic and trade relations between the two countries.