How shifting trade policies are shaping prices, availability, and the future of two key protein sources
As of 2025, U.S. trade policy is in flux—especially when it comes to imported foods. Among the most impacted sectors are seafood and beef, two staples that rely heavily on global sourcing to meet American demand. With tariffs on the rise and changing month-to-month, both consumers and industry professionals are feeling the ripple effects.
Seafood:
More than 85% of the seafood consumed in the U.S. is imported, often from countries like China, Vietnam, Thailand, Ecuador, and India. Tariffs as high as 25% to 145% on imports from select countries are now increasing the cost of everything from shrimp and salmon to crab and tilapia.
Shrimp, one of the most consumed seafood items in the U.S., is largely imported in frozen, pre-packaged forms. Tariffs have caused prices to spike, especially for tail-on, peeled-and-deveined varieties in 1- and 2-pound retail bags.
Crab and imitation crab products, commonly sourced from Asia, are seeing cost increases that are pressuring margins for both foodservice operators and grocery retailers.
White fish like pollock, cod, and whiting—often processed overseas—are now more expensive to import, making it harder for budget-conscious consumers to find affordable options.
Seafood processors are dealing with delays and higher customs fees, further complicating inventory planning.
Some domestic producers, especially in the Gulf Coast, support the tariffs, seeing them as a way to level the playing field against cheaper international competitors. But overall, the net effect is upward pressure on retail and wholesale prices across the board.
Beef:
While the U.S. is a major beef producer, it still imports significant volumes of lean beef from countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Brazil. This lean meat is crucial for blending with fattier U.S. beef to produce items like ground beef, a supermarket staple.
What’s changing with beef imports:
Tariffs are affecting fresh and frozen beef cuts from major exporters, which directly influences the cost of ground beef, steak tips, and processed beef products.
Restaurants, particularly fast-casual and quick-service chains, are facing higher costs for imported beef trim, which is pushing up menu prices or forcing them to revise portion sizes and recipes.
Distributors like us are looking for domestic alternatives, but U.S. beef prices are already high due to herd reductions over the past few years.
What This Means for the Industry
For food distributors, wholesalers, and retailers—especially in regions like the Mid-Atlantic—staying agile is more important than ever. Companies must monitor tariff updates, diversify supply chains, and manage customer expectations as prices fluctuate.
Quaker Valley Foods is working closely with both of vendors and customers to offer strategic buying guidance and alternative product options that balance quality and price.
The future of imported seafood and beef remains uncertain, largely hinging on trade negotiations and election outcomes. But one thing is clear: the cost and availability of these proteins are no longer just a matter of market supply and demand—they’re tied tightly to geopolitical winds.
Whether you’re a restaurant owner or grocery buyer, staying informed and adaptable will be the key to navigating this evolving food landscape.