India and Seychelles have agreed to deepen cooperation in fisheries, aquaculture and the blue economy, with a focus on technology, research, capacity building and sustainable marine resource management.
The discussions took place on 25 August during a high-level bilateral meeting hosted by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. The Seychelles delegation was led by Wallace Cosgrow, Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Blue Economy, while India was represented by Dr Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries.
Key areas identified for collaboration include mariculture, hatchery development, tuna fisheries, stock assessment, post-harvest technologies and marine conservation. Both sides also discussed fisheries data systems, monitoring, control and surveillance, and the potential use of Artificial Intelligence in fisheries management.
The two countries further explored cooperation in tuna processing and value-chain development, fish waste management, technical studies, laboratory access and joint pilot projects. Seychelles expressed interest in establishing a dedicated bilateral MoU on fisheries and aquaculture, supported by an annual work plan.
India highlighted its growing fisheries sector, with fish production reaching 19.7 million tonnes and seafood exports valued at USD 8.46 billion, while reaffirming its commitment to technical cooperation and capacity building in the Indian Ocean region.
Both sides agreed to strengthen institutional linkages through technical exchanges, exposure visits and collaboration among Centres of Excellence, with the aim of translating bilateral commitments into practical and sustainable outcomes.
