Shrimp feed manufacturers withdrew the proposed price increase after Andhra Pradesh Fisheries Minister K Atchannaidu warned
May 13, 2026: Andhra Pradesh Fisheries Minister K Atchannaidu on Wednesday warned shrimp feed manufacturing companies against increasing prices at the cost of aquaculture farmers, following which the companies agreed to suspend the proposed hike. The manufacturers had planned to raise shrimp feed prices by up to ₹10 per kg, triggering concerns among farmers already struggling with rising costs and shrinking profits in the aquaculture sector.
During a video conference with feed manufacturers, aquaculture farmers’ associations and officials, Atchannaidu said the government would not tolerate any unilateral decision that harms farmers’ livelihoods. He stressed that feed companies should not profit from farmers’ hardships and insisted that any pricing decision must consider the views of farmers. The minister also said protecting aquaculture farmers remains the coalition government’s top priority.
Following the meeting, the Shrimp Feed Manufacturers Association informed the government in writing that the proposed price hike had been suspended with immediate effect. The association stated that rising raw material costs had forced them to consider increasing prices, but they agreed to postpone the decision after the minister’s intervention. Atchannaidu also announced a joint meeting on May 15 involving farmers, manufacturers and officials to reach a balanced solution that protects both farmers and the industry.