Boston Globe: Chinese tariffs are taking a toll on Mass. lobster businesses, and lawmakers are speaking up

Federal lawmakers from Massachusetts are urging the US trade representative to “explore new markets for American lobster exports” following a year-plus of heavy Chinese tariffs on the imported crustacean.

In a letter to US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, the lawmakers said, “US lobster exports to China are down more than 80 percent since June 2018, which is reflected in the losses reported by local Massachusetts lobster companies.” Here’s a look at the issue.

What’s the impact on Mass.?

According to the lawmakers, two Massachusetts lobster-related businesses have ceased operations, leaving more than 250 workers out of a job. US Senators Elizabeth Warren and Edward J. Markey, along with Representatives Stephen F. Lynch, William R. Keating, Seth Moulton, and Joseph P. Kennedy III signed the letter.

Read the full article on the Boston Globe website here.

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