Kerala Faces Crisis: U.S. Tariffs Threaten Traditional Industries

Kerala's traditional export industries are facing a major crisis as the U.S. implements new tariffs. Finance Minister K N Balagopal explains the potential economic fallout: jobs will be lost, and revenue from vital sectors like marine products and spices will decline drastically.

The shrimp industry has already felt the impact, with a significant increase in anti-dumping duties leading to canceled orders and reduced plant utilization. Women, who form the backbone of shrimp processing, are among the hardest hit.

Balagopal warns of wider social consequences, advocating for immediate and long-term solutions, including concessional loans and a diversification of trade markets. The state has urged the central government for support and is building consensus among political leaders.