Indonesia shifts shrimp exports to China due to Trump tariffs

Leonardo planned to expand the farm from 150 to 250 acres this year, but had to postpone due to a sharp decline in orders from the U.S. after Mr. Trump threatened to impose tariffs starting in April. Although the 19% tariff agreed with Washington in July was lower than the initial 32% and took effect this week, Leonardo is still worried about the impact on the business. "With the U.S. putting pressure on Indonesia's exports, everyone wants to find new opportunities to diversify and reduce dependence on the U.S.," the 30-year-old shrimp farmer shared after the July tariff announcement. The impact of these tariffs is significant as the U.S. is the largest market for Indonesian shrimp, accounting for 60% of the country's total shrimp export value of $1.68 billion last year. Andi Tamsil, Chairman of the Indonesian Shrimp Farmers Association, estimates that the 19% tariff could reduce total exports by 30% this year compared to 2024, threatening the livelihoods of one million workers. ...