The Hindu Business Line : Matsyafed mulls `tuna terminal'

In an effort to tap into the lucrative Japanese market for sashimi grade tuna, Kerala State Cooperative Federation for Fisheries Development (Matsyafed) is considering a proposal to set up a `tuna terminal' in Kochi.

The proposed `tuna terminal' will serve as a hub for processing and exporting sashimi grade tuna, said an official. Matsyafed has approached the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) for financial support for this venture.

A decision from MPEDA on supporting the project, which is expected to involve an investment of approximately Rs 1.35 crore is expected in the next few days.

JAPANESE DELICACY

Sashimi is a Japanese delicacy of very fresh, thinly sliced raw seafood, the official explained. Though growing, tuna exports from India over the past few years have not properly targeted this high-value segment where prices start at around Rs 700 a kg, he pointed out.

Instead, much of the focus has been on exporting tuna for the low-value reprocessing and canning markets where prices obtained are around Rs 50 a kg or lower. Earlier this month, Matsyafed itself exported one consignment of sashimi grade tuna and is all set to export another consignment, he added.

STRESS ON QUALITY

However, while exporting sashimi grade tuna can bring in significant returns, the quality and freshness of the tuna has to be maintained, the official emphasised. This in turn depends on the availability of appropriate technology, skilled human resources, proper infrastructure and a grasp of the auction markets in Japan.

The proposed `tuna terminal' at the Matsyafed ice and freezing plant in Kochi will provide the technology and infrastructure required to ensure the freshness and quality of the tuna exported from Kerala.

The `tuna terminal,' which will also be open to private exporters, will train fishermen in the skills required to catch tuna and process sashimi grade tuna onboard the boats, he explained.

Similarly, Matsyafed is also talking to companies to improve the efficiency and productivity of the fishing systems on boats that are used for catching sashimi grade tuna.

More Stories on : Aquaculture | Co-operatives | Kerala

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