Shrimp Export from India to the USA: Compliance Checklist

Specify species product form size count glaze net weight freezing method pack format and destination. HOSO HLSO peeled and deveined and cooked products are not interchangeable. Even the same count can produce a different landed yield when glaze and declared net weight differ.

For Vannamei shrimp confirm whether the count is per pound or per kilogram. State the tolerance and sampling method in the contract. Approve the carton marks and retail label before production begins.

Fish and fishery products entering the United States are subject to seafood HACCP requirements. The US importer must maintain the required verification controls for the foreign processor. FDA guidance covers hazard analysis and controls for pathogens aquaculture drugs environmental contaminants and temperature abuse.

Ask for the processor's HACCP plan relevant monitoring records corrective action procedure sanitation controls and lot traceability. The importer should review these with a qualified seafood HACCP professional rather than treating certificates as a substitute for verification.

Confirm that the exporter and processing establishment hold the registrations required for marine product exports from India. For shipments covered by the US shrimp program MPEDA states that the consignment must be accompanied by a DS 2031 certificate confirming the harvest method or aquaculture status.

Match the exporter plant product and shipment details across the health documents invoice packing list and bill of lading. Resolve differences before the container departs because post departure corrections can delay entry.

Agree the product core temperature at loading and require a continuous reefer setting appropriate to the frozen product. Use an independent temperature logger when the cargo value justifies it. Record seal numbers and loading photographs in the inspection report.

Pre shipment inspection should verify count size net weight glaze sensory condition packaging integrity metal detection records and label details. Laboratory testing should be selected from the hazard analysis and current destination requirements rather than copied from an old shipment.

Coordinate the FDA entry data customs documents importer verification records and any original certificates with the broker before arrival. Keep supplier approval records and shipment verification evidence in a file linked to the lot code.

Elijah Global Impex can coordinate the commercial specification plant documentation inspection plan and refrigerated freight for buyers sourcing Indian frozen shrimp.