Andhra Pradesh, Aug. 6 -- The aquaculture industry in Andhra Pradesh is bracing for a major setback as the United States, under President Donald Trump, has announced a 25 per cent tariff on Indian products, effective August 7.

This move will increase the total tariff burden on Indian seafood exports to the US to nearly 35 per cent, including an existing 5.77 per cent countervailing duty and a 3.96 per cent anti-dumping duty.

Members of the Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI) fear that this steep hike will severely affect shrimp farmers in Andhra Pradesh, where over 6.5 lakh farmers cultivate shrimp, fish, crabs, and other species across 5.7 lakh acres.

The sector also employs nearly 50 lakh people across various segments incl...