Louisiana Rep. Clay Higgins Asks Trump to Put Tariffs on Foreign Seafood

Louisiana’s seafood industry is obviously a massive part of the state’s economy and culture, and now Rep. Clay Higgins is asking President Donald Trump to step in and help protect it.

In a letter sent earlier this week (Feb 11), Higgins urged President Trump to add tariffs (extra taxes) on seafood imported from countries like China, Ecuador, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Higgins says these countries use unfair practices, like government subsidies and illegal dumping, to make their seafood cheaper. That makes it tough for local fishermen, shrimpers, and crawfish farmers here in Louisiana to compete.

“Louisiana’s seafood producers are struggling to keep up with foreign industries that play by unfair rules,” Higgins said. “These bad trade practices hurt our fishermen and threaten the future of our local seafood industry.”

Seafood is a big deal in Louisiana. Not only does it taste amazing every which way we prepare it, but it also brings people together and supports thousands of jobs. It's no secret that many locals believe the state’s fresh seafood is way better than cheaper foreign options, and buying local keeps money in the community.

If the tariffs are approved, foreign seafood could become more expensive, making Louisiana seafood the more affordable choice for restaurants and vendors. While some worry it could raise prices overall, many people in Louisiana would support tariffs if it means protecting local fishermen and seafood businesses.

Higgins has some strong ideas for how to fix the problem. He’s asking for stricter testing on foreign seafood and even suggests destroying shipments that don’t meet U.S. health standards. He believes these actions are necessary to level the playing field and help keep Louisiana’s seafood industry strong.

Louisiana’s seafood industry has been the heart of its coastal communities for generations. Now, supporters hope Trump will take action to defend it.

Read Higgins’ full letter below.