Rep. Nancy Mace Introduces Amendment to Protect American Seafood Industry

Strategic Insights -

Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC-01) has introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requiring the Department of War (DoW) to purchase only American-caught seafood. This move aims to safeguard South Carolina's shrimpers, fishermen, and coastal economy by closing a loophole that has allowed foreign competitors to undercut American workers and exploit loopholes in federal law.

Key Takeaways:

  • The amendment aims to protect South Carolina's shrimpers, fishermen, and coastal economy by requiring the DoW to purchase only American-caught seafood.
  • The Berry Amendment, enacted in 1941, ensures the DoW buys American-made products critical to national security, but there was a loophole for seafood that allowed foreign imports.
  • Rep. Mace's amendment specifically closes this loophole, requiring every fish, shrimp, and shellfish the Pentagon buys to come from U.S. sources.
  • This move comes as South Carolina shrimpers battle unfair competition and alleged mislabeling of foreign shrimp as "local."
  • Bryan Jones, Vice President of the South Carolina Shrimpers Association, has praised Rep. Mace's leadership, stating that the amendment is a "matter of fairness" that will ensure American-caught seafood is fed to American troops and their families.
  • Rep. Mace has stated that this amendment will provide a level playing field for American fishermen and will "stand up" to foreign interests that are gaming the system.

Statistics:

  • The amendment is one of five proposals made by Rep. Mace for consideration during floor debate on the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act.
  • The Berry Amendment was enacted in 1941.
  • The DoW purchases seafood worth billions of dollars annually.
  • American fishermen and shrimpers contribute significantly to the South Carolina economy.
  • Foreign imports of shrimp and other seafood have threatened the livelihoods of South Carolina fishermen and their families.

Sources:

  • Rep. Nancy Mace's office (2025)
  • Berry Amendment (1941)
  • South Carolina Shrimpers Association (no date)