The Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI) has firmly refuted allegations of environmental pollution linked to fish processing units, following criticism from political leaders over the operations of fish meal plants. In a statement, SEAI clarified that there is only one fish meal plant in the Cuncolim Industrial Estate, while the other six facilities are fresh fish exporters. The association believes that authorities and political leaders are unfairly targeting the entire sector, despite the fact that the pollution concerns stem solely from the fish meal unit.
Ibrahim Maulana, President of SEAI for the Goa region, asserted that their fresh fish exporting operations comply with international hygiene and safety standards and operate under strict regulations. He expressed concern over the misinformation being spread, which has led to defamation and financial repercussions for the sector. “We want to categorically state that we are not fish meal units. Out of all the establishments here, only one is a fish meal unit, which has been identified as the source of pollution,” he said.
Maulana invited Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, and other officials to visit their facilities and see firsthand the efforts made to address environmental concerns. He urged leaders to engage in informed discussions instead of placing unjust blame on the fish exporters.
SEAI also criticised the Goa State Pollution Control Board, claiming that the board has not offered constructive solutions but has only taken action against alleged violations. “Several steel plants are also contributing to pollution, and the authorities should look into their affairs instead of solely targeting fish exporters,” he urged.
Maulana concluded by calling for recognition of the employment opportunities provided by fish processing plants and urged for a more balanced approach in addressing environmental issues in the area.
‘Seafood exporters hit by fish famine, lack of local export infra’
The Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI) has raised concerns about the challenges currently facing the fishing industry, particularly the significant reduction in fish yields this season. According to association president Ibrahim Maulana, a lack of local export infrastructure in Goa is compounding the issue. Fish caught in Goa must be sent to Mumbai for export, making the process more cumbersome and less efficient, particularly when yields are already low. The association is urging the Goa government to address this issue to support both fishermen and exporters