Kerala’s shrimp industry is grappling with a crisis following the U.S. ban on Indian shrimp imports, implemented for sea turtle conservation reasons. While aimed at protecting marine life, this ban has dire consequences for the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen and their families.

Government Challenges and Concerns

The U.S. Department of State and NOAA conduct verification visits to ensure that shrimp-harvesting nations comply with regulations minimizing incidental turtle catches. India’s non-compliance led to the ban in 2019. Fishermen, represented by Joseph Xavier Kalapurackal of the All Kerala Fishing Boat Operators Association, express frustration over the government’s lack of proactive measures to address their unique fishing circumstances and the healthy sea turtle population in local waters.

The ban has triggered a dramatic drop in shrimp prices and diminished earnings, putting immense financial strain on local fishermen. Jackson Pollayil, president of the Kerala Swathanthra Matsya Thozhilali Federation, noted that exporters are taking advantage of the situation, acquiring shrimp at low prices while fishermen struggle to make ends meet.

Government Negotiations for Solutions

Amid the crisis, Fisheries Minister Saji Cheriyan announced plans to engage with the Union Government to find a solution to the import ban. Compliance with U.S. regulations, including the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), is seen as crucial for reviving shrimp exports.