India Counters Allegations of Abuses in Shrimp Industry

Recently, India, the leading supplier of shrimps to the U.S., dismissed allegations of human rights and environmental violations.

Key Points

Refutation of Allegations: Indian officials rejected claims made by a Chicago-based human rights group, asserting the integrity of the shrimp export value chain certified by MPEDA.
Growing Importance of Shrimp Exports: Shrimp exports contribute significantly to India's seafood industry, with exports reaching $5.6 billion in 2022-23, making India a key player in the global market.
Efforts to Uphold Reputation: Commerce Ministry officials planned to engage with seafood exporters to address concerns and safeguard India's standing in international markets.
Focus on Working Conditions: Authorities aim to commission independent studies on working conditions in shrimp farms, emphasizing transparency and accountability.
Importance of Regulatory Compliance: India highlighted its adherence to international regulations, with regular monitoring by regulatory agencies and audits from entities like USFDA and European Commission.
Response to CAL Report: Indian officials challenged the credibility of the Corporate Accountability Lab report, citing selective highlighting of isolated incidents and lack of verification.