In McClellanville, South Carolina, two programs are striving to promote tighter regulations that would guarantee fair trade practices for shrimp in the Lowcountry.
The South Carolina Shrimpers Association, in partnership with the S.C. Sea Grant Consortium, is organizing a series of workshops aimed at bringing together shrimpers who are grappling with the issue of cheaper imported shrimp.
Shrimpers in the Lowcountry have the option to complete a questionnaire to assist the International Trade Commission in determining whether imported shrimp requires antidumping and countervailing duty orders.
Domestic industries are safeguarded against unfair competition through these responsibilities.
According to organizers, local industries are being undermined by foreign producers who sell their products below market value.
Rocky Magwood, President of the South Carolina Shrimpers Association, clarified that his intention is not to prevent individuals from purchasing imported shrimp.
Magwood emphasized the importance of having an equal playing field with imports. He stated that they should be allowed to supply what they can and import the rest. Cutting them off completely would hinder their ability to supply anything at all.
The shrimping industry can be sustained, and jobs and economic stability in coastal communities can be preserved through the implementation of these measures, according to organizers.
The McClellanville Library will host the first workshop on Monday from 3-6 p.m.
There are more workshops scheduled for interested participants. The first one will take place on Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Mount Pleasant Library, while the second one will be held on Wednesday from 3 to 6 p.m. at the St. Helena Library. These workshops are a great opportunity for those who want to learn and improve their skills.
Shrimpers are being encouraged to voice their concerns about the impact of imported shrimp on their livelihoods during this crucial time, according to organizers.
