Export essentials
Posted on Feb 28, 2025
Suppose you've established a good seafood business. Your prawns and fish are fresh, there are buyers from overseas, and all seems well for success. But the moment you plan to export, you're greeted by mountains of paperwork, compliance problems, and government clearance.
This is where MPEDA (Marine Products Export Development Authority) comes in. A VIP pass, you might say, to the international seafood market. It's your key to getting your business legally established, gaining access to subsidies, and simplifying exports with fewer obstacles.
And if you are not leveraging it to the fullest, you are not only losing money—you're losing huge opportunities.
Let's simplify it and understand how you can derive the most from MPEDA.
What is MPEDA & Why is it Important?
MPEDA Full Form: Marine Products Export Development Authority
What does it do? It serves as the controlling body of seafood exports, making Indian marine products marketable in foreign countries and assisting exporters in penetrating global markets.
Who requires it? If you are exporting fish, shrimp, prawns, or any other sea product, MPEDA registration is necessary. Without MPEDA registration, you just cannot export.
First-time exporter? Begin with checking out MPEDA’s official guidelines for more details.
How to Obtain MPEDA Registration in India (Step-by-Step)
Let’s get you registered!
Step 1: Find Out If You're Eligible
MPEDA registration is applicable to:
Fisheries and aquaculture companies
Seafood exporters and processing facilities
Cold storage and marine product suppliers
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You will require:
Business PAN card
GST Registration Certificate
Bank Certificate and IEC Code
Processing Unit/Farm Details (if relevant)
Need to know about GST on exports? Check our Ultimate GST on Exports Guide for more details.
Step 3: Apply Online
Go to the MPEDA registration portal
Complete the application form
Upload the documents
Pay the application fee
Get your MPEDA certificate in approximately 30 days.
Want to get the best forex rates on your export payments? Use our Currency Converter for live exchange rates.
MPEDA Subsidies & Benefits – Don't Leave Free Money on the Table
Are you an exporter who isn't availing yourself of MPEDA subsidies? You're leaving money on the table in the form of financial assistance that can increase your bottom line. Here's what you can claim:
1. Cold Storage & Processing Plant Subsidies
MPEDA grants financial assistance for exporters to invest in state-of-the-art freezing units and seafood processing factories.
2. Market Development Assistance (MDA) for Export Development
Planning to exhibit your products at overseas trade fairs? MPEDA refunds 50 percent of your expenditure, making export outreach easier.
3. Free Lab Testing & Export Quality Certification
Have your seafood batch analyzed and certified for free, cutting the risk of customs clearance hang-ups.
Most exporters are missing out on these subsidies because they don't even know they are available. Stay informed and take advantage of these subsidies.
Common MPEDA Registration Roadblocks (And How to Fix Them)
Issue: Registration Approval Delays
Solution: Ensure that all documents are properly uploaded and follow up through MPEDA's official contact portal.
Issue: Unawareness of Subsidies
Solution: Subscribe to MPEDA's news feed and participate in exporter forums to stay aware.
Final Thoughts – Is MPEDA Worth It for Exporters?
If you’re serious about scaling your seafood export business, MPEDA registration isn’t just a formality—it’s your gateway to global markets, subsidies, and smoother trade operations.
But let’s be honest, dealing with registrations, understanding subsidies, and managing international payments can feel overwhelming.
That’s where Infinity comes in.
From streamlining your MPEDA registration process to assisting you in getting the best forex rates and making international transactions with ease, we simplify exports.
Rather than getting bogged down in paperwork and financial woes, you can concentrate on expanding your business and connecting with more buyers globally.
Take charge of your export journey now. Discover Infinity's solutions and make global seafood trade easy.
Next Steps: Streamline your export payments with our Guide to Receiving International Payments.
FAQs: Everything Indian Exporters Ask About MPEDA
Q:Is MPEDA registration mandatory for all seafood exporters?
Yes, if you’re exporting marine products from India, MPEDA registration is legally required.
Q:How much does MPEDA registration cost?
It varies based on business type. Check the official MPEDA fee structure for details.
Q:Can small-scale fish farmers benefit from MPEDA?
Absolutely. MPEDA offers financial aid and export support for small fisheries and aquaculture businesses.
Q:Does MPEDA registration assist in acquiring international buyers?
Yes. MPEDA conducts seafood expos and international trade fairs, providing exporters with direct access to foreign buyers.
Q:How long is MPEDA registration valid?
The certificate is valid for five years and needs to be renewed thereafter.
