Kochi, Feb 8 (IANS): The Central government will help the seafood sector in all possible ways to make India the number one exporter, Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Som Parkash, said on Saturday.

In his address at the 22nd India International Seafood Show, organised by the Marine Exports Development Authority (MPEDA) here, he said: "There is an urgent need to make India the prime producer of seafood, going up from the fourth position.

"The government is willing to address the problems faced by the sector in achieving production and export targets without compromising on quality and environment. When this happens, it would contribute to the country's overall economic development besides improving the employment opportunities. At present, the sector provides employment to about 14.5 million people," Prakash said.

The Minister asked the MPEDA to prepare and submit a memorandum, listing the sector's requirements.

Seafood Exporters Association of India President Jagdish V. Fofandi said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should take up the issue that seafood exporters face with the European Union, during his upcoming visit.

"The government should also ensure that the Chinese market remain open to India, particularly in view of the fact that the neighbouring country had become a net importer," Fofandi said.