Katrina Devastates US Shrimp Industry, But Fuel Costs Were Already Killing It

摘要

Consumers may not feel the pinch right away, due to imports. But with boats and processing plants destroyed by the hurricane, the end may be near for many in the business. The Hurricane Katrina disaster that hit New Orleans in September also devastated the Gulf Coast shrimp industry in the United States, and there may be international implications since the United States has imposed punitive tariffs on imported shrimp to protect a domestic industry that was already in sad shape. Hurricane Katrina, with its 140-plus mph winds, churned through waters that are home to snapper, pampano, crabs, frogs and 40-50% of the domestic catch of shrimp. Chefs, distributors and retailers were left wondering whether the fish supply will be affected or if damage to boats and packaging plants will make shipping difficult, both of which could raise prices. Louisiana shrimp and oyster fisheries were wiped out by the storm and are expected to be out of commission for the foreseeable future, according to National Fisheries Institute President John Connelly. The region produces 10% of the shrimp consumed in the United States and 40% of the oysters.