Shrimp farmers are once again facing growing concern over rising feed costs. The latest increase comes after a series of price revisions in recent weeks, adding further pressure on farmers who are already dealing with high production costs and an uncertain farming environment.
The issue had already surfaced at the end of August, when feed companies announced a price increase effective from September 1. At that time, Vannamei shrimp feed prices were increased by ₹3.85 per kg, while feed for Tiger shrimp was raised by ₹5.70 per kg. The companies reportedly attributed the increase to a sharp rise in the cost of key raw materials, including fishmeal and fish oil.
However, the latest price revision has created fresh concern among the shrimp farming community, with reports indicating a further increase in feed prices. According to the latest update, Vannamei feed prices have increased by ₹9 per kg, while Tiger shrimp feed prices have gone up by ₹12 per kg.
A Series of Feed Price Increases Raises Concerns
For shrimp farmers, feed is one of the most significant costs during a crop cycle. Even a small increase in the price per kilogram can have a substantial impact when large quantities of feed are required across multiple ponds.
The September 1 price hike had already raised concerns among farmers, particularly at a time when many were dealing with rising cultivation expenses. The additional increase now being reported has intensified those concerns.
Farmers have pointed out that shrimp farming economics are already under pressure from multiple factors. With input costs continuing to rise, any further increase in feed prices can directly affect the overall cost of production and, ultimately, farm profitability.
Why Feed Costs Matter So Much in Shrimp Farming
Feed is not a one-time expense. It remains a major operational cost throughout the culture period, with consumption increasing as shrimp grow. This means changes in feed prices can quickly add to the total expenditure of a farm.
The impact may vary depending on pond size, stocking density, shrimp size and feed consumption, but the concern remains the same: higher feed prices increase the financial pressure on farmers.
The situation has therefore become an important issue for the aquaculture sector, with farmers seeking greater discussion and engagement with feed companies regarding the repeated price increases.
Farmer Organisations Prepare for Action
The growing concern is now moving beyond individual farmers. Farmer organisations are reportedly preparing to take action against the continued feed price hikes, with discussions expected around how to collectively raise the issue with feed companies.
Farmers are demanding direct discussions with feed manufacturers to address the rising costs and find a solution that considers the current challenges facing the aquaculture sector. There is also growing discussion within sections of the farming community about stronger collective action if their concerns are not addressed.
Among the options reportedly being considered is a crop holiday, reflecting the level of concern over whether shrimp farming can remain economically viable if production costs continue to rise without adequate returns.
The coming days could therefore be crucial for the sector. The key question will be whether discussions between farmer organisations and feed companies can lead to a resolution or whether the growing dissatisfaction could develop into a larger collective movement.
For now, shrimp farmers will be closely watching the situation, as rising feed prices continue to add another layer of uncertainty to Vannamei and Tiger shrimp farming.
