US tariff hits Andhra's shrimp exports: Prices dip 10-15% as aqua farmers feel the pinch

VISAKHAPATNAM: April to July marks the peak harvesting season for aqua farming in Andhra Pradesh, which contributes about 33% of India's total seafood exports.

However, the industry is already feeling the pinch from the 26% tariff announced on seafood exports by the US govt, with prices of aqua products going down by 10-15%, according to farmers.



For instance, the 100-count (about 100 prawns per kilogram) Vannamei shrimp variety, which used to sell for around Rs 240, is now fetching about Rs 200.

Similarly, the 30-count variety has dropped from Rs 460 to Rs 410, and the 50-count variety is now selling for Rs 310 instead of Rs 350. Low-count varieties are the most preferred for exports.

Andhra Pradesh Aqua Farmers' Association secretary G Subba Raju said US tariffs have become an additional burden on the sector. "Following the tariff announcement, processing plants reduced prices by nearly Rs 40-50 per kilogram.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• April to July is the peak harvesting season for aqua farming in Andhra Pradesh, which accounts for approximately 33% of India's total seafood exports.
• The seafood export industry is adversely affected by a 26% tariff imposed by the United States government, resulting in a price decrease of 10-15% for aqua products.
• Processing plants have lowered prices by nearly Rs 40-50 per kilogram following the tariff announcement, significantly impacting farmers' earnings.