November 13, 2008

India has decided to import vannamei seed from Hawaii, and the seafood industry is waiting to see a revolution in the shrimp sector.

The production of white shrimp is expected to gradually replace the black tiger shrimp that has been the dominant shrimp variety farmed by Indian farmers for years.

For some time, the government has delayed permission to import vannamei seed due to fears over safety of brood stock and TVS virus. However, the Hawaii seed is said to be 100 percent specific pathogen free.

The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) has given permission to Sarat Seafoods and BMR Hatcheries, Nellore to produce vannamei white shrimp. Some other companies have also sought permission from the Aquaculture Authority of India.

It is hoped that the decision to cultivate vannamei shrimp can help India to regain its overseas market share, said YGK Murthy, president of the Association of Indian Fishery Industries.

After a two-year experiment, Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) gave permission to Sarat Seafoods and BMR Hatcheries, Nellore to take up production. Some other firms have also sought clearance from Aquaculture Authority of India. "We are very much excited over the decision and hope that we can regain our hold over overseas market in record time," president, Association of Indian Fishery Industries YGK Murthy told The Hindu.

India may have joined the vannamei party late, but it is not seen to pose any severe problems as "there is heavy demand in overseas markets", according to former vice-chairman of MPEDA, K. Haribabu.