Both Alabama senators warned the Biden administration of a dire economic outlook for U.S. catfish farmers and processors if it adopts the interim decision. reduce that responsibility Issues surrounding catfish imported from Vietnam.

in the letter The administration should reverse its move to abandon decades of precedent that has leveled the playing field for the U.S. farmed catfish industry, senators told Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. points out.

“Alabama is the second-largest catfish producing state in the United States and farms one-third of the world's catfish,” said Senator Tuberville. “As a former owner of a catfish restaurant, I know firsthand how important catfish are to our economy. It's important to put America's catfish farmers first. That's why I'm honored to be a part of this effort. I’m proud of that.”

Alabama is Ranked 2nd in the nation It is the second largest producer of farmed catfish after its neighbor to the west, Mississippi. There are approximately 66 catfish farms in Alabama, generating nearly $92 million in economic value for the state.

RELATED: National Catfish Month: Alabama 'vital' to national industry

“Nearly 33% of catfish produced in the United States is produced right here in Alabama. Catfish are an essential part of our state's economy, and I will always support our hardworking farmers and processors,” said Britt. the senator said.

“President Biden needs to recognize that food security is national security and that his America Last policy is putting our nation's future at risk.”

Based on the preliminary decision regarding Certain frozen fish fillets from the Socialist Republic of Vietnamnon-market economy (NME) anti-dumping duties may be reduced from $2.39/kg to $0.14/kg for all producers controlled by the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV).

If the Biden administration's decision is not corrected, cheap catfish imports from Vietnam will flood the U.S. market, forcing catfish farmers and processors out of business, the senators said. .

Grayson Everett is the state and politics editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270