Insights from the 2025 Shrimp Summit: A Dive into Tariffs and Innovations

Catch the Current hosts Amanda Buckle and Lorin Castiglione welcomed Dan Gibson, the EMEA deputy editor of Undercurrent News, who was reporting live from the stunning backdrop of Bali. While at the 2025 Shrimp Summit, it became clear that he was grappling with pressing industry discussions, rather than lounging on the beach.

Key Topics and Tariffs

The summit was replete with significant discussions, particularly around US tariffs affecting the shrimp industry. Over the three days spent at the Grand Hyatt Bali Hotel, a strong consensus emerged: tariffs are the predominant concern among producers.

Dan shared that during a panel discussion, nearly every attendee indicated that the looming threat of US tariffs was their main worry. This sentiment was underscored by Robert DeHaan, general counsel of the National Fisheries Institute (NFI), who presented a grim outlook for Asian producers facing increasing tariffs in the US market.

The Path Forward: Adaptation and Redirection

In response to these challenges, shrimp exporters from India, Vietnam, and Indonesia are exploring alternative markets. Each country is contemplating strategies to redirect their shrimp supplies, targeting consumers within their domestic markets as well as regions like the EU and Japan.

Emerging Innovations in Shrimp Farming

The summit also highlighted a slew of innovative solutions aimed at combating diseases that have historically plagued shrimp farming. Diseases such as Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) and White Spot Syndrome remain prevalent, leading many farmers to seek new techniques.

Notably, advancements are underway including genetic selection and the development of antibiotics that do not leave harmful residues—an essential factor given the strict regulations in European markets. In a particularly exciting move, a company has developed a vaccine for shrimp that could dramatically impact the sector by 2028.

Market Trends and the Role of Consumption

Despite the gloomy forecasts surrounding tariffs, US retail shrimp sales have remained robust. Observers note an upsurge in consumption as importers frantically push supply before the tariffs take full effect. As Dan pointed out, shrimp often makes up a significant portion—usually about 20-30%—of seafood sales in the US, raising concerns on how consumers will react to potential price hikes.

Spotlight on Land-Based Aquaculture

Joining the discussion was Matt Craze, founder of Spheric Research, who provided insights into the upcoming fifth edition of the Land-Based Aquaculture Report (LBAR). He noted an increase in diverse species covered within the report, which now includes knowledge spanning across various aquaculture sectors—from salmon to eels.

Digital Modernization and Continued Growth

The report will not only include extensive data but also embrace a digital format for ongoing updates and insights. This modernization allows stakeholders to receive real-time information reflecting the rapid changes within the industry.

Conclusion

As the shrimp industry grapples with tariff-related challenges and strives for innovation amid turmoil, the discussions at the 2025 Shrimp Summit reveal a resilience and adaptability among stakeholders. With new strategies emerging, the shrimp sector remains a focal point for ongoing dialogue in seafood’s ever-evolving landscape.

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