Cheap Imports Threaten Louisiana’s $1.3B Shrimp Industry

DELCAMBRE, La. (KPEL News) - Louisiana’s shrimp industry, an essential part of the state’s economy and cultural identity, is under serious threat.

A flood of cheap imported shrimp is driving prices to record lows, leaving local shrimpers fighting to survive. Without swift action, this generations-old way of life could vanish, taking with it jobs, traditions, and a vital piece of Louisiana’s coastal economy.

Get our free mobile app

Why Louisiana’s Shrimp Industry Matters

Shrimping is more than just an industry in Louisiana—it’s a legacy. Every year, Louisiana shrimpers harvest approximately 70 million pounds of shrimp, feeding not just the state but the nation and international markets. The industry contributes $1.3 billion annually to the state’s economy and supports 15,000 jobs, many of which belong to multigenerational fishing families.

Beyond its economic significance, shrimping is woven into the fabric of Louisiana culture, influencing everything from food to festivals to family traditions. But this legacy is at risk.

Cheap Imports: The Biggest Threat

Imported shrimp, primarily from countries like India, Thailand, and Ecuador, now account for 80% of shrimp consumed in the United States. These shrimp are often farmed in industrial conditions that allow them to be sold far below the price of Louisiana’s wild-caught shrimp.

As a result, dockside prices for Louisiana shrimp have plummeted, dropping as low as $0.45 per pound in some cases—a dramatic decrease from just a few years ago. Meanwhile, rising fuel and operational costs are squeezing shrimpers even further, creating an unsustainable environment for local fishermen.

What This Means for Louisiana Families

For many Louisiana shrimpers, this is not just a job—it’s their heritage.

Family-owned shrimping businesses, often passed down through generations, are struggling to stay afloat. The combination of plummeting prices and rising costs is forcing many to consider leaving the industry altogether.

The potential collapse of the shrimping industry would devastate coastal towns like Grand Isle, Delcambre, and Pointe à la Hache, where much of the local economy depends on shrimping.

What’s Being Done to Protect Louisiana Shrimpers

Louisiana lawmakers and industry leaders are working to shield the state’s shrimp industry from the flood of imports. Key initiatives include:

Banning Imported Shrimp: State legislators are urging the federal government to prohibit shrimp and crawfish imports from outside the United States.
Stricter Testing Standards: Expanding testing requirements for imported shrimp to ensure safety and quality.
Country-of-Origin Labeling: Advocating for mandatory country-of-origin seafood labeling in restaurants to empower consumers to choose Louisiana products.

While these efforts offer hope, experts warn that immediate action is needed to save Louisiana’s shrimpers before it’s too late.

Get our free mobile app

How Louisiana Consumers Can Help

You don’t have to be a shrimper to support Louisiana’s shrimp industry. Here’s what you can do to make a difference:

Buy Local Shrimp: Look for Louisiana-caught shrimp when shopping at grocery stores or seafood markets.
Dine Local: Choose restaurants that prioritize locally sourced seafood.
Ask Questions: If you’re unsure where your shrimp comes from, ask. Supporting local shrimpers starts with informed choices.

“Every dollar spent on Louisiana shrimp is a vote for preserving our culture and keeping our families in business,” says Guidry.

Why This Matters Now

Louisiana’s shrimp industry is facing an existential crisis, but it’s not too late to turn the tide. By supporting local shrimpers, enforcing fair trade practices, and raising awareness, Louisiana residents can help preserve a cornerstone of the state’s economy and culture.

Shrimping in Louisiana is more than a business—it’s a way of life. And with the help of lawmakers, industry leaders, and local consumers, we can ensure that it continues to thrive for generations to come.