Introduction – Current State of Play: The Pangasius Sector in India
India’s Pangasius market is shifting fast—and that’s putting it mildly. As of Q3 2025, the country is witnessing a wave of developments that are reshaping how Pangasius is produced, sold, and exported. From modest yet consistent production growth and shifting consumer demands to increasing competition from global players like Vietnam and Ecuador, India is stepping up in a sector long dominated by Southeast Asia.
Production is up, but challenges remain. Indian Pangasius is still mainly geared towards the domestic market due to smaller fish sizes, but cost advantages and lower logistics expenses are starting to make India a competitive sourcing destination. With projections of a 2% growth in India’s aquaculture sector in 2025, businesses that rely on Pangasius—processors, exporters, foodservice chains—need to stay sharp and informed.
And let’s not overlook the ripple effects of global events. Weather disruptions, feed cost volatility, and sudden shifts in demand due to trade strategies from other nations mean businesses in India must stay flexible and proactive.
In such a rapidly changing environment, platforms like Freshdi are becoming essential. They help buyers track supplier reliability, monitor RFQ trends, and stay alert to real-time market developments.
Deep Dive – Breaking News: Critical Updates & Their Effects
Let’s break down the biggest news shaping India’s Pangasius landscape:
India Gains Momentum in Global Production
India, alongside China and Bangladesh, now contributes between 15% and 21% of global Pangasius production, with Vietnam still leading at 42%. While Vietnam dominates exports, India’s production is largely focused on domestic consumption. However, this focus is beginning to shift as Indian producers improve quality and processing capabilities.
Domestic vs Export Balance
Most of India’s Pangasius remains on home soil. Why? The fish sizes are generally smaller, making them unsuitable for export markets like the US, where consumers prefer larger fillets. Still, the domestic market is booming, and producers are investing in processing infrastructure to eventually target exports.
Supply Chain Enhancements
Investments in hatcheries, disease-resistant broodstock, and feed production are helping Indian suppliers scale up. Automation and sustainable practices are slowly being introduced, although India still lags behind Vietnam in tech adoption.
Competitive Pressure is Heating Up
India is now viewed as a rising competitor in the Pangasius trade. Its lower production costs and growing infrastructure are squeezing margins for traditional exporters like Vietnam.
Future Outlook: Positive but Cautious
Rabobank projects a 7% global growth in Pangasius production in 2025. India is expected to contribute significantly, especially in the South Asia and Middle East markets where consumer preferences align more closely with Indian Pangasius products.
Top 4 Verified Pangasius Suppliers in India – Adapting to Today’s Market
Here are the Top 4 Pangasius Suppliers in India for Q3 of 2025, verified by buyer reviews, export history, and supply chain reliability on Freshdi.
1. BR Global Trade
- Product Focus: Frozen Pangasius Steak
- USP: BR Global Trade has carved a name for consistent quality and timely delivery.
- Certifications: FSSAI, ISO 22000
- Market Reach: Serves domestic buyers and is piloting exports to GCC countries.
- Freshdi Insight: High buyer satisfaction with responsiveness and product consistency.
2. K Star Exim Services
- Product Focus: Whole Pangasius, Fillets
- USP: Known for their competitive pricing and location advantage near key fisheries.
- Certifications: HACCP, FSSAI
- Market Reach: Strong in southern India, expanding into Bangladesh.
- Freshdi Insight: Frequently listed in “Suppliers of the Month” for responsiveness and fill rates.
3. Ocean Catch India Pvt. Ltd.
- Product Focus: IQF Pangasius Fillets
- USP: Premium processing standards with a sustainability-first approach.
- Certifications: ASC, BRC
- Market Reach: Catering to hotel chains and retail in India.
- Freshdi Insight: Positive ratings for traceability and sustainable sourcing.
4. AquaBlue Exports
- Product Focus: Frozen Pangasius Portions
- USP: Highly scalable operations and focus on ready-to-cook formats.
- Certifications: ISO 9001, FSSAI
- Market Reach: Domestic retail and Horeca.
- Freshdi Insight: High RFQ conversion rate indicates strong buyer trust.
Dynamic Ranking Note: Rankings may vary on platforms like Freshdi, which update listings based on supplier performance metrics such as responsiveness, on-time delivery, RFQ activity, and verified buyer reviews.
Market Navigation – Strategic Responses to The Current Pangasius Landscape in India
So, how should businesses respond to India’s Pangasius shake-up?
Rethink Export Expectations
If you’re looking to export Indian Pangasius, be mindful of the size and quality limitations. These fish are perfect for budget-conscious domestic consumers but may fall short in premium overseas markets—at least for now.
Capitalize on the Domestic Boom
India’s internal market is growing rapidly. Rising protein demand, health-conscious eating, and urbanization are fueling consumption. If you’re in retail, foodservice, or distribution, now’s the time to lock in supplier relationships.
Diversify Sourcing Regions
Focus on sourcing from states like Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal, where production is more established. These regions are also seeing increased investment in cold chain and processing infrastructure.
Invest in Processing Innovations
There’s a growing appetite for value-added products—think marinated fillets, ready-to-cook packs, and frozen meal kits. Suppliers who innovate in this space will lead the game.
Risk Management Tips
- Monitor Feed Prices: Volatile feed costs can impact supplier pricing. Consider locking in long-term contracts.
- Track Certifications: Exporters should work with suppliers pursuing international certifications like ASC or BRC.
- Stay Updated via Freshdi: Use Freshdi’s alert system to track spikes in RFQ activity tied to new trade developments.
Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Businesses in a Fast-Moving Market
Q3 of 2025 has proven to be a pivotal quarter for India’s Pangasius sector. The country is growing its share in global production, but it’s still navigating quality, size, and tech adoption hurdles. Suppliers are scaling up, and while most are still focused on domestic demand, export ambitions are clearly on the horizon.
For businesses, the message is clear: stay informed, be agile, and build relationships with verified suppliers who are adapting to the changing market.
Checklist for Pangasius Buyers in 2025
✅ Identify suppliers with scale and certifications
✅ Focus on domestic market alignment unless quality/export specs are met
✅ Monitor feed price trends and input costs
✅ Partner with suppliers investing in value-added formats
✅ Use Freshdi for real-time RFQ shifts and supplier performance analytics
How Freshdi Empowers Buyers in the Pangasius Sector
- Real-Time Alerts: Get instant updates when market changes affect RFQ volumes or pricing.
- Verified Suppliers: Work only with pre-vetted, high-performing suppliers based on reviews and fulfillment history.
- Trend Analysis: Understand buyer behavior, seasonal trends, and regional sourcing opportunities.
- Dynamic Rankings: Access quarterly supplier leaderboards to find top performers in real time.
FAQs
1. Why is Indian Pangasius mostly sold domestically?
Because the fish are generally smaller and not yet standardized for premium global markets. However, this makes them ideal for local consumption.
2. Can Indian Pangasius be exported to the US?
Currently, not on a large scale. Size and quality constraints limit India’s suitability for the US market, though this may change with investment in farming practices.
3. How can I find verified Pangasius suppliers in India?
Platforms like Freshdi provide verified supplier profiles, buyer reviews, and real-time RFQ data.
4. What certifications should I look for when sourcing Pangasius?
Look for FSSAI, HACCP, BRC, and ASC certifications depending on your target market and product use.
5. Is Pangasius farming sustainable in India?
It’s improving. Indian producers are beginning to adopt sustainable practices, but there’s still a way to go to match global leaders like Vietnam.
References
- https://van.nongnghiepmoitruong.vn/pangasius-exports-are-expected-to-grow-by-10-in-2025-d421746.html
- https://vietfishmagazine.com/aquaculture/pangasius/2025-promising-horizons-for-vietnams-pangasius-industry.html
- https://www.businessresearchinsights.com/market-reports/pangasius-market-118308
- https://www.fao.org/in-action/globefish/species-analysis/pangasius/en
- https://www.marketreportanalytics.com/reports/pangasius-257489
- https://wtocenter.vn/tin-tuc/27172-pangasius-exports-expected-to-grow-5-10
- https://www.cognitivemarketresearch.com/pangasius-market-report
- https://freshdi.com/?utm_source=blog
