(vasep.com.vn) On Aug 12th 2013, the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) decided to impose countervailing duties (CVD) on frozen shrimp imported from Vietnam and other six nations.
Accordingly, Vietnam shrimp exported to the U.S. will be subjected two kinds of duties. The decision not only has a direct impact on 600,000 locals working in the Vietnam shrimp sector (mainly poor farmers), but it also poses a huge blow to the U.S. consumers.
In the view of DOC’s determination, Vietnam Fisheries Society (VINAFIS) and Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) have voiced their objection to the U.S. ’s decision because it is unfair and needs to be reconsidered.
As a point of fact, Vietnam government has never given subsidy to farmers and enterprises in the whole shrimp production chain (seed producing, shrimp farming and processing for export).
Relevant authorities and enterprises in Vietnam are preparing all documents and evidences proving that they do not receive any subsidy from the government.
Wild-caught shrimp is different from farmed shrimp imported into the U.S from Vietnam and other Asian countries. The measure taken by the DOC is irrational and not in line with TBT-Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade regulated by WTO.
In fact, US shrimp importers affirmed that farmed shrimp imported from Vietnam does not pose any potential threat of injury to US domestic processors. In 2012, the U.S. domestic shrimp industry witnessed a significant growth in both landings and prices
US shrimp importers concerned that DOC’s decision may force the US’s shrimp suppliers to shift more toward other destinations that will slash the US shrimp supply. The fact will push up the shrimp price in the U.S. market which US buyers will have to suffer from.
On the other hand, Vietnam is importing raw material for processing fish feed from the U.S. If DOC’s determination takes effect, it will pose loss to US enterprises and consumers.