Gadre Marine Export Pvt., founded in 1994, has grown into a global leader in seafood innovation, specializing in high-quality crab products. The company celebrates two milestones this year: its 30th anniversary and 20 years of exporting its signature crab meat.
Led by Managing Director Arjun Gadre, Gadre has built a reputation for excellence in the seafood industry, with operations that span India, Japan and the U.S.
Japan holds a special place in the company’s operations.
“We initially supplied surimi (ground fish) to Japan in 1998. After finishing college in 1999, I joined the company as a sales representative and traveled extensively in Japan. Seeing how Japanese producers used our raw materials inspired me to start manufacturing imitation crab meat,” Gadre shared.
This journey eventually led to Gadre Marine’s first export of kanikama (imitation crab) in 2004, marking a new chapter in its expansion.
“Japan isn’t our largest market geographically; the U.S. holds that title. However, servicing Japanese-quality products has been instrumental in shaping our global business,” Gadre explained. The company’s commitment to the Japanese market is evident with partnerships dating to 2008, including one with the Co-operative Grocer Chain, a group of retail chains. Gadre’s product line has expanded to supply major Japanese retailers like Aeon and Ito-Yokado.
India, often overlooked in the global seafood industry, plays a vital role as a leader in kanikama production. Gadre Marine’s business is founded on stringent quality-control standards to meet Japan’s exacting demands, sourcing fresh fish blocks locally and using vertically integrated facilities to minimize processing time, ensuring premium freshness.
“We use a mix of natural extracts and nature-identical flavors, leveraging advancements in food technology,” Gadre said.
Though Japan remains foundational to its business, Gadre Marine’s reputation has also flourished in the U.S., where it supplies 75% to 80% of the imitation crab used in sushi kiosks and by the Japanese sector. The company’s success story extends beyond borders, with products like “Viral Snow Crab” gaining immense traction on TikTok and further solidifying its presence in global markets.
“We credit our Japanese experience for helping us maintain high quality and innovate successfully,” Gadre added.
The company remains committed to producing premium products that satisfy the discerning tastes of Japanese and global consumers alike.
“Our priority is ensuring high-quality production,” Gadre said. “We adapt to market dynamics while maintaining our focus on quality and innovation.”
