United States Raises Tariffs on Thai Tuna, Opening a Window of Opportunity for Spain

The United States, the world’s leading importer of seafood products, has set a single tariff of 19% on canned tuna from Thailand, the world’s main supplier of the product. Spain, which exports under the European Union framework, maintains a lower tariff of 15%, which could favor its exports to the U.S. market.

The measure directly increases the cost of Thai imports. Each can destined for the U.S. will cost almost a fifth more than before, placing the average price per ton at around $6,500, similar to the levels of Vietnam or Ecuador. Although it is a blow to Bangkok, its lower production costs allow it to remain competitive.

The change in tariff policy simplifies a more complex previous system, in which rates varied between 6% and 35% depending on the type of canned goods. Washington chose to unify the tariff at 19% after a negotiation with Thailand, which avoided a larger increase that was considered around 36%.

For the Spanish industry, the new scenario may represent an opportunity as long as it manages to differentiate its product by quality, sustainability, and traceability. Experts emphasize that the battle will not be fought on the price front, where Asia maintains structural advantages, but on the added value that the consumer is willing to recognize.

However, the situation also entails risks: Thailand could redirect part of its production towards Europe, putting downward pressure on prices and affecting the Community tuna industry. Organizations such as Europêche have already warned of this threat and are asking the European Union to activate trade defense measures if necessary.