The Trump-imposed 50 percent tariffs on shrimp imports to the US will take effect from Wednesday, August 27. Andhra Pradesh, India’s largest shrimp exporter to the US, is expected to be hit the hardest by this decision, leaving farmers worried.
Nearly 3 lakh farmers in the state depend on shrimp farming with heavy investments in saline ponds. With prices likely to fall sharply due to tariffs, shrimp farmers fear they will face huge losses despite their existing commitments and expenses.
Andhra Pradesh exports shrimp worth Rs 20,000 crore globally, out of which Rs 16,000 crore goes to the US. The new tariff threatens to severely affect this trade and could wipe out profits that usually range between 20 to 25 percent.
Shrimp farmers already struggle with high costs such as electricity, feed and land charges, along with loan repayments. The tariff impact has pushed many to consider switching to fish farming, vegetable retailing or small-scale businesses for survival.
Farmers’ unions have appealed to the state government to step in and provide relief. With the crisis deepening, they say only intervention and timely support can help safeguard the future of Andhra Pradesh’s shrimp industry.
