**MARKET BRIEF: SEAFOOD SECTOR REBOUND** The Indian seafood industry is entering a high-velocity recovery phase following the landmark India-US trade deal finalized in early February 2026. This agreement effectively reverses the severe tariff shocks of 2025, which at their peak reached nearly 58% for shrimp exports. Under the new framework, the US has slashed reciprocal tariffs on Indian marine products to 18%, down from the previous 25% to 50% range. **Stock Market Reaction** The news triggered an immediate rally in seafood-linked equities. Major players like Avanti Feeds and Apex Frozen Foods surged 20% in single sessions following the announcement. Other notable gainers included Zeal Aqua, which jumped over 10.5%, and Kings Infra Ventures, rising 7.6%. This reflects renewed investor confidence after a period of intense caution and margin pressure. **Export Dynamics & Pricing** The US remains India’s primary seafood market, valued at approximately 2.78 billion USD. Despite a 6.3% value decline in early FY26 due to punitive duties, the volume of exports is expected to return to historical levels quickly. India now holds a competitive edge, with its 18% tariff placing it slightly ahead of regional rivals like Indonesia and Thailand (19%) and Vietnam (20%). Domestic shrimp prices in Andhra Pradesh are already seeing upward movement. Vannamei white shrimp prices rose by 5 rupees per kg recently, driven by tight off-season supply. Total shrimp production for 2026 is forecasted to exceed 1 million tons, with Monodon (black tiger shrimp) output expected to double to 150,000 tons. **Strategic Shifts** While the US deal is the primary catalyst, Indian exporters have successfully diversified to mitigate past risks. Non-US markets now account for 57% of total exports, with significant growth in China, Belgium, and Vietnam. The European Union has also bolstered the sector by approving 102 new Indian fisheries for export, validating improved food safety standards. **Outlook** The global seafood market is projected to reach 278 billion USD in 2026. India’s focus on value-added products and increased aquaculture capacity positions it to capture a significant share of this growth. However, exporters remain vigilant regarding ongoing US anti-dumping reviews, which recently assigned new duty rates between 2.7% and 5.1% for specific major exporters.