But we really want an extension of the deadline and we wish the EU gives us more time,' Hashim said.

The EU guideline comes in the wake of another, from Russia, that says all shipments to that country must carry an inspection certificate issued by Russian authorities from Aug 1.

Hitherto all that was needed was what was applicable for shipments to the EU.

Alex K. Ninan, a leading seafood exporter, told IANS the new EU guideline was more problematic than meeting Russia's requirement as more agencies need to work together.

'We are not sure if our authorities will be able to complete all formalities and get the mechanism in place before the current deadline expires because so many agencies have to come together to issue the certificate,' Ninan said.

'For instance, even the boat owner and the harbour nearest to where the catch has been made also have to work together. We need more time and I hope the central government will intervene and get us an extension in complying with the new guideline,' he added.

'Russia accounts for just Rs.300 crore of our exports, but exports to the EU will now cross Rs.3,000 crore. We are hoping that authorities have a pragmatic approach when it comes to certification,' Hashim said.

India exported 602,000 tonnes of seafood products, valued at Rs.8,608 crore ($1.76 billion) in 2008-09, an increase of over 11 percent in volume and nearly 13 percent in value over that registered the previous fiscal.