Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) has sent a letter to President Trump requesting higher tariffs on rice imports from Thailand. Higgins said these imports are making it harder for Louisiana farmers to compete.
“U.S. rice producers are facing market challenges as a result of trade actions from Thailand. Jasmine and other long-grain rice have been particularly impacted,” wrote Congressman Higgins.
He added, “Thailand has remained the largest culprit of subsidized rice dumping into the United States, amassing over half the metric tons of all rice imports. This flood of Thai rice has displaced one-for-one purchases from American rice mills and has artificially depressed prices for our farmers.”
Higgins called for action until fair trade practices are in place: “Until legal and fair-trade practices from Thailand and other countries occur, I respectfully urge your administration to use tools at your disposal, including levying tariffs up to 100% on all Thai rice imports to help encourage a level playing field for American rice farmers and processors.”
Earlier this year, Higgins also asked for significant tariffs on imported rice and seafood from other countries. He continues to push for stronger trade enforcement measures that he says will protect U.S. industry.
Clay Higgins represents Louisiana’s 3rd district in Congress and has served since 2017 after replacing Charles Boustany. Before joining Congress, he was a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives. Born in New Orleans in 1961, Higgins currently lives in Lafayette.
The most recent letter can be read here.
