Tariff Uncertainty Continues to Weigh on U.S. Seafood Importers
U.S. seafood importers continue to face significant uncertainty as they wait for legal clarity on the future of “reciprocal” tariffs imposed under the Trump administration, according to a recent report by IntraFish. While optimism has grown that the tariffs may ultimately be overturned, industry leaders warn that recovering duties already paid could be a long and complex process.
In the IntraFish article, Southstream Seafoods President Mark Soderstrom described the rapidly shifting tariff landscape as one of the most disruptive challenges the industry has faced in decades. “The most disruptive thing prior to this was the pandemic,” Soderstrom told IntraFish. “And quite frankly, I’d give anything to get rid of this and have another pandemic. It was easier.”
Southstream Seafoods is among many companies that have absorbed millions of dollars in tariff-related costs over the past year. According to the IntraFish report, duties paid on seafood products have surged dramatically, forcing importers to seek efficiencies across their supply chains while attempting to minimize price increases for customers.
Legal optimism, practical challenges
The article notes that several large seafood companies — including Costco, Bumble Bee Foods and Netuno — have filed lawsuits seeking relief from the tariffs and potential refunds. However, legal experts interviewed by IntraFish cautioned that even if the Supreme Court ultimately rules against the tariffs, reclaiming funds already paid may prove difficult once import entries are officially “liquidated.”
Soderstrom emphasized that for smaller and mid-sized importers, the cost and time associated with pursuing independent legal action can be prohibitive. As a result, many companies are closely watching the outcomes of the larger cases before deciding their next steps. Story PDF for Mark)INtrafish
Operating under prolonged uncertainty
Nearly a year into the tariff regime, uncertainty remains a defining feature of the operating environment. Importers continue to adapt by closely managing inventory, working customer by customer to maintain transparency, and monitoring legal developments as they unfold.
For Southstream Seafoods, the focus remains on serving customers reliably while navigating an unpredictable regulatory landscape. As Soderstrom noted in the IntraFish interview, the hope across the industry is that forthcoming court decisions will bring clarity — and ultimately relief — to a sector already under significant pressure.
Navigating the tides together
At Southstream Seafoods, we understand the challenges that uncertainty brings. That’s why we’re committed to helping our partners weather these shifting currents by working with our current product availability to keep your business moving forward. Even in turbulent times, our focus remains on ensuring you never have to sacrifice quality on the plate.
👉 Connect with us today to explore how Southstream can support your needs and help you navigate the path ahead.
