In Bayou La Batre, Alabama, local shrimpers are urging the U.S. government to impose higher tariffs on imported shrimp. The influx of cheap imports has devastated the domestic shrimp market, with imports accounting for over 90% of shrimp consumed in the U.S. Mayor Henry Barnes wrote to President Trump requesting assistance, emphasizing the impact of low or nonexistent tariffs on the local economy. Despite relying heavily on the marine sector, the town has seen a 30% drop in tax revenue in recent years.
Shrimpers argue that tariffs could help level the playing field by raising the cost of foreign shrimp, allowing domestic producers to compete more effectively. Unlike other seafood industries, such as lobster, which depend on international trade, the U.S. shrimp industry primarily serves the domestic market, making it less concerned about potential retaliatory tariffs.
According to NOAA Fisheries, the total value of U.S. shrimpers’ catch has significantly decreased, from $522 million in 2021 to $268 million in 2023. Advocates like Rep. Clay Higgins have called for tariffs of up to 100% on shrimp imports to protect the industry. However, some in the broader seafood sector oppose tariffs, fearing they could lead to inflation and harm consumer spending on seafood.
While tariffs remain a contentious issue, the community may find relief through growth in another key industry—shipbuilding. A planned shipyard expansion is expected to create over 100 jobs in the coming years. For now, shrimpers like Barnes remain hopeful that tariffs will provide the support needed to sustain their livelihoods.
— new from NBC News