Seafood Markets Mixed As Tariffs Drive Import Costs

Producers and processors should watch trade policy closely as tariff impacts ripple through seafood markets.

CATHERINE_PUCKETT_19_06_06_US_RI_OYSTER_WENCH_0008.jpg

Catherine Puckett (FarmHER S4, E8)

FarmHer, Inc.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV)— U.S. seafood markets are showing a blend of stability and firmness this week, according to Urner Barry.

Domestic shrimp prices are steady to firm as production slowly increases, while domestic browns remain steady but with a less-than-adequate supply.

Imported shrimp markets continue to climb, especially black tigers and whites, as tariffs and replacement costs push prices higher. Mexican shrimp markets are steady ahead of the new season, while Argentine red shrimp remain stable.

Catfish, both domestic and imported, are holding steady, though imports face tighter supplies. Atlantic farmed salmon prices are steady, while mahi-mahi and pangasius are firm on limited production and tariff-related costs.

In the whitefish complex, cod, pollock, and haddock all face supply challenges with steady-to-firm pricing. Premium species show similar trends: red king crab and Alaskan snow crab are strengthening on short supplies, lobster tails are firm, and lobster meats are seeing price increases.

Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: Seafood buyers face rising costs on imported shrimp, crab, and some premium species due to tariffs and supply shortages, while domestic shrimp and catfish remain relatively stable. Producers and processors should watch trade policy closely as tariff impacts ripple through seafood markets.
Related Stories
Lawmakers from Texas and Tennessee outline priorities for USMCA renegotiations, focusing on tariffs, China trade concerns, beef prices, and stability for U.S. agriculture.
Slightly higher sales amid shrinking acreage and inventories point to tighter supplies supporting catfish prices.
Lower oil prices may trim input costs but pressure biofuel demand.
Cold-driven spikes in gas prices can quickly raise fertilizer and energy costs.
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller joins us to discuss the cattle herd rebuild, trade concerns, and how ranchers would define “America First” policy priorities.
Nitrogen and phosphate markets are tightening ahead of spring, keeping fertilizer costs elevated while crop prices lag.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Lane Howard and Adam Andrews with the National Corn Growers Association joined us in the studio discuss EPA’s approval of summer E15 sales, ongoing fuel market concerns, and the industry’s push for a long-term biofuels solution for farmers.
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation discusses how stewardship is driving efficiency, profitability, and competitiveness in the dairy industry.
Farm Bureau officials say the findings underscore mounting pressure on producers heading into the 2026 growing season, with input costs continuing to outpace farm income.
Corey Rosenbusch with The Fertilizer Institute joined us to discuss supply chain disruptions and what farmers should watch as global tensions impact fertilizer markets.
Labor supply may shift, but uncertainty remains for producers.
Spring Fieldwork Expands While Weather Challenges Persist Nationwide
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the availability of over $275 million in grant funding in FY2026 for the specialty crop industry in the United States through three USDA programs.