Fishing Net Manufacturers in India: A Comprehensive Guide to the Industry
India is a global leader in fishing net production, leveraging centuries of traditional craftsmanship and modern technological advancements. With a vast coastline spanning 7,517 kilometers and over 1.4 million fishers engaged in the sector, the country contributes significantly to the global fishing equipment market. This guide explores the key players, regional hubs, challenges, and opportunities in India’s fishing net manufacturing industry.
1. Key Regional Hubs
Gujarat: The largest producer, accounting for ~35% of India’s output. Cities like Bhuj and Anand are famous for high-quality monofilament nets used in both commercial and recreational fishing.

Tamil Nadu: Known for hand-woven nets (e.g., "Thalassery nets") and circular nets for trawling, supported by coastal towns like Tuticorin and Rameswaram.
Kerala: Specializes in eco-friendly nets with coconut fiber and bamboo, popular in sustainable fishing communities.
West Bengal: Focuses on small-scale, affordable nets for marginal fishers in Sundarbans and other deltaic regions.
2. Major Manufacturers
Kishan Nets: A 50-year-old company offering custom nets for trawlers and aquaculture, exporting to 30+ countries.
Gujarat Net Works: produces UV-protected, high-density nets with a 50% market share in India’s trawling sector.
Sai Marine Solutions: Innovates in circular nets and IoT-enabled nets for real-time fish school tracking.
Coastal Craftsmen Co.: Preserves traditional methods while offering hand-woven nets certified by UNESCO.
3. Product Range
Material Types:
Monofilament: Durable, lightweight (used in 80% of commercial nets).
Twisted Polypropylene: Affordable and weather-resistant.
Coconut/Know Fiber: Biodegradable, favored for eco-sensitive zones.
Specialty Nets:
Fish aggregation devices (FADs) for deep-sea fishing.
Anti-piracy nets with GPS tracking (used by coastal defense forces).
Aquaculture nets with anti-microbial coatings.
4. Challenges Faced by the Industry
Raw Material Volatility: 40% cost increase in 2023 due to global polypropylene shortages.
Regulatory Hurdles: Complex certifications (e.g., ISO 9001, FAO guidelines) and environmental clearances.
Technological Gaps: Only 30% of SMEs use automated looms; many rely on manual labor.
Climate Impact: Rising sea temperatures and coral damage威胁 coastal net durability.
5. Government Initiatives
Make in India 2.0: Subsidies for automation (up to 25% of machinery cost).
Fishery Ministry’s “Green Nets” Campaign: Tax breaks for biodegradable net manufacturers.
Fishery Infrastructure Mission (FIM): Funds 500+ new net production units in 2024.
6. Global Market Reach
Exports: $400M annually (2023), with top destinations being:
Europe (35%): Spain, Portugal for trawling nets.
Asia-Pacific (30%): Vietnam, Philippines for aquaculture.
Africa (25%): Kenya, Mozambique for coastal fisheries.
Key export certifications: CE, JIS, and FAO standards.
7. Choosing the Right Manufacturer
Certifications: Verify ISO, GMP, or BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) compliance.
Customization: Look for firms offering tailored designs (e.g., mesh size, color, pocket placement).
Logistics: Confirm export documentation support and sea/air freight partnerships.
After-Sales: Check for maintenance services and spare part availability.
8. Future Trends
Smart Nets: Integration of sensors for temperature, salinity, and fish activity monitoring.
Circular Economy: Recycling programs for end-of-life nets (e.g., HPCL’s polyethylene recycling initiative).
E-Commerce Growth: 50% increase in online orders via platforms like Trade India and Alibaba.
Conclusion
India’s fishing net manufacturers are poised to capitalize on rising global demand, driven by sustainable practices and technological innovation. However, addressing raw material shortages and adopting automation will be critical to maintaining competitiveness. For international buyers, partnering with ISO-certified Indian firms offers cost efficiency and quality assurance in a diverse product portfolio.
Contact for Collaboration:
For sourcing queries, visit Indian渔网制造商协会 or connect with suppliers via Trade India.
Data Source: India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), 2023; FAO Statistical Yearbook.
This guide provides actionable insights for buyers, investors, and policymakers, highlighting India’s role as a global fishing net hub while addressing industry-specific challenges.
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