Seychelles delegation visits ICAR-CIFT, Discuss Opportunities for Fisheries and Blue Economy Cooperation

A seven-member delegation from the Republic of Seychelles, led by H.E. Wallace Cosgrow, Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and Blue Economy, visited the ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) today as part of an official visit to India from 24 to 28 August 2026.

The delegation had discussions with Director and senior scientists of the CIFT on fishing technology, fish processing and circular economy, and quality assurance. Speaking during the visit, H.E. Wallace Cosgrow, Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and Blue Economy of Seychelles said that fisheries is the second pillar of the Seychelles economy and the country is aiming for maximizing revenue from landed catches, mainly tuna, and post harvest management is crucial strategy, by achieving greater circularity and value. He observed that there is potential for collaboration especially for building capacities at various levels and can be a win-win situation for both countries.

Dr. George Ninan highlighted the expertise and technological capabilities of ICAR-CIFT in the design and development of responsible fishing systems, fisheries processing, value addition, waste utilisation, quality assurance and post-harvest management. He also emphasized the institute’s experience in developing technologies aimed at improving the efficiency, sustainability and value of fisheries resources.

The members of the Seychelles delegation expressed particular interest in the institute’s work in areas such as high value products from rest raw materials and seaweed, designs and standards of fishing vessels, and on-board training opportunities. The delegation also visited the facilities of the Institute.

The visit provided an opportunity to strengthen institutional linkages between Seychelles and ICAR-CIFT and to identify practical avenues for cooperation in fisheries technology, research, training and capacity building