US Senators Propose New Tariff on Indian Shrimp to Aid Louisiana Fisheries

US Senators Bill Cassidy and Cindy Hyde-Smith have introduced the India Shrimp Tariff Act in Congress. As per the news reports, the bill is aimed at imports of shrimp from India, which the senators say are being sold at low prices that hurt shrimp and catfish producers in Louisiana.

Stated Concerns

As per the news reports, Cassidy said the measure is to protect Louisiana seafood and the jobs tied to it. He pointed out that shrimpers and catfish farmers in the state maintain strict standards, while imported shrimp enters the market at cheaper rates. Hyde-Smith said the bill is meant to address losses faced by domestic shrimpers, processors, and consumers.

Committee Developments

As per the news reports, Cassidy raised the matter at a Senate Finance Committee hearing. He secured a commitment from Treasury nominee Jonathan Greenstein to support Louisiana shrimp producers and oppose practices that lawmakers called “unfair.”

Earlier Action on Imports

This is not the first attempt to curb agricultural imports. In February, Cassidy and other Republican senators introduced a bill aimed at Indian and Chinese rice exports. That measure also cited concerns of domestic producers losing out to cheaper foreign supplies.

Visa Proclamation

In a separate move, US President Donald Trump announced non-immigrant worker visas. The order, effective September 21, 2025, sets a fee of $100,000 on H-1B applications. The change has been presented as part of new rules governing the visa programme.

Likely Impact on India

As per the news reports, Indians account for 71-72% of H-1B visas each year. The higher cost is expected to affect professionals and companies in the technology sector. India’s remittance inflows, which stood at $125 billion in 2023, could also face pressure as a result.

Read more: Have US Tariffs Revived the Old Spirit of Swadeshi Among Indian Buyers and Businesses?

Conclusion

The shrimp tariff proposal and the visa fee hike point to stronger steps in the US on trade and labour. Both measures carry direct implications for Indian exporters and workers.

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