American food producers and trade associations are urging the government to grant exemptions from newly imposed tariffs, warning that essential products such as seafood, fruits, and vegetables cannot be supplied affordably from domestic sources.
The call for relief follows a wave of new duties on multiple trading partners, raising U.S. tariff levels to heights not seen in decades and sparking concerns over global trade disruptions.
Industry representatives stress that the food sector faces unique challenges. While the U.S. produces the majority of its food domestically, around 20% is imported — including items that cannot be grown locally in sufficient quantities. Seafood is especially vulnerable, with 85% of U.S. consumption relying on imports, primarily from Asia and Latin America. Shrimp imports, for example, come mostly from India, which could soon face sharply higher tariffs.
Fresh produce is another area under pressure. Mexico remains the largest supplier of fruits and vegetables to the U.S., while countries such as Peru and Canada play critical roles in meeting demand. Trade associations argue that raising tariffs on these imports could increase food prices and strain supply chains.
Although food groups are united in highlighting the risks, they are pursuing case-by-case exemptions rather than a broader challenge to the tariffs. However, observers note that without a clear relief process, securing exclusions could prove difficult.
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