Ecuador Shrimp Exports to US Face 15 Percent Tariff $170 Million Extra Cost Threatens 300000 Jobs

Starting August 7, Ecuador’s white shrimp exports to the United States are subject to a 15% tariff, significantly lower than India’s 50% or Vietnam’s 20%, but still a heavy blow for the industry. According to Jose Antonio Camposano, president of Ecuador’s National Aquaculture Chamber, the new tariff will cost exporters nearly $20 million per month—adding up to $120 million in extra payments through December.

Ecuador is considered a relative winner under the latest US trade policy, yet the impact is still severe. In 2024, Ecuador shipped 412 million pounds of white shrimp to the US, worth $1.28 billion. For the first half of 2025, exports hit 29.8 million pounds, generating $867 million in revenue.

Year-to-date, Ecuadorian companies have already paid $45 million in tariffs. With the new 15% rate, extra annual costs could swell to $170 million. Adding a 3.78% countervailing duty brings the total tariff burden to 18.78%—a threat to 300,000 jobs across the sector.

Industry leaders are urging the government to negotiate a trade deal with the US to secure more favorable market access and reduce future tariff risks.