U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and Cindy Hyde-Smith have introduced the India Shrimp Tariff Act in the Senate, seeking to impose tariffs on shrimp imports from India. The proposed law aims to protect Louisiana’s shrimp and catfish industries from what lawmakers call “dumped” low-cost Indian seafood, which has significantly impacted local producers.
The legislation intends to create a level playing field, safeguard thousands of jobs, and ensure fair competition for U.S. shrimpers and processors. It follows earlier trade protection measures, including restrictions on rice imports from India and China.
The move could escalate trade tensions between the two countries, with India likely to challenge the decision at the World Trade Organization (WTO). As one of the world’s largest shrimp exporters, India’s seafood industry could face significant market barriers if the Act becomes law.
Senator Cassidy stressed the need to defend local industries from unfair trade practices, while Hyde-Smith emphasized the bill’s importance in protecting Gulf Coast jobs and seafood culture.
