Ca Mau races to protect shrimp supply chain amid U.S. tariff shock
As the U.S. moves forward with plans to impose a steep 46% tariff on Vietnamese goods, the government of Ca Mau has urged shrimp farmers and seafood processors to stay calm and avoid panic.
Exporters in the province have reported that U.S. buyers are requesting shipment delays, triggering fears of a drop in raw shrimp prices. In an official notice, the Ca Mau People’s Committee informed businesses and residents of the potential repercussions the U.S. tariff could have — not only on shrimp but on the province’s entire seafood sector.
Authorities have called on processors and exporters to continue purchasing shrimp from local farmers to maintain production stability. They emphasized the need to prevent panic-driven mass harvesting and production halts, which could break the shrimp supply chain and harm the province’s economy. Businesses are urged to take proactive measures to overcome operational challenges, report difficulties promptly to the government, and work closely with local authorities to ensure business continuity. Companies are also being asked to strengthen their sense of responsibility and unity with the provincial leadership during this turbulent time.
Earlier, Ca Mau held a series of meetings with businesses to discuss solutions for navigating the impact of the U.S. tariff policy.
Following the U.S. tariff announcement, many Vietnamese companies have stopped quoting prices, signing contracts, or shipping goods to U.S. buyers, fearing major losses.
Businesses warn that a large volume of goods, both produced and yet to be manufactured under existing contracts, remains in limbo. If the U.S. sticks to its proposed tariff rates, exports to the U.S. could become extremely difficult or even impossible, potentially causing a sharp decline in the province’s export revenue.
Meanwhile, raw shrimp prices have plunged sharply. In just two days, prices for white-leg shrimp farmed under intensive and super-intensive methods have fallen by 4,000 to 15,000 VND per kilogram.
Industry reports indicate that the drop is driven largely by farmers reacting to tariff news, fearing even greater price falls and choosing to harvest early.
VFM
