Question : IMPORT OF SEAFOODS

(a) whether the ASEAN agreement includes import of seafoods;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the measures being taken by the Government to safeguard the interests of local fishing community and equip them with advanced technology?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) & (b) The India – ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement includes India’s offer for tariff concessions on certain fisheries products and no tariff concessions on certain fisheries products. Complete lists of India’s and ASEAN countries’ offers are available at http://commerce.gov.in/trade/international_ta_indasean.asp

(c);Many fisheries products are protected by India under the Trade in Goods Agreement. Key fisheries products such as Trout, Sole, Tuna, Herring, Cod, Sardine, Mackerel, Hilsa, Dara, Seer, Profret, Cuttlefish, Shrimp, Prawn, Crab, Lobster, processed Tuna, Caviar, etc. have been placed by India under the Exclusion (Negative) List where no tariff concessions are available to ASEAN countries. Under the Agreement, safeguard measures including imposition of safeguard duties and reversion to tariffs prevalent on 1st January 2010 can be invoked by India, when needed.

The following measures are being taken to equip the fishing community with advanced technology:

(i) Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme on “Development of Marine Fisheries, Infrastructure and Post Harvest Operations” Government of India provides financial assistance to the coastal fishermen for the motorized traditional crafts.

(ii) For safety of fishermen at sea, Government of India provides kit consisting of direction finder (GPS), communication equipment and depth finder (Echo sounder).

(iii) For intermediate class of fishing vessels (about 18 mts. Length), Government of India provides subsidy upto Rs. 6.00 lakh.

(iv) To promote fuel efficient and environment friendly fishing practices, Government of India provides 30% cost of LPG kit used for propulsion.