I would like to add two points, that I have direct experience in and are relevant to your article.
1- the barbie doll example tracks with my experience in seafood processing in Alaska. Those pink salmon fillets in your freezer, that say "FAO 67" and "Product of China", were caught in Alaska, given a initial processing (head removed, guts, bloodline removed, eggs sent to a different process, where the Japanese grade them on-site, then are exported). Upon arrival in China, they are thawed, filleted and re-froze, then shipped back to the states. The fish has likely gone through 3 or more freeze/thaw cycles. Thats why cheap fish from stores tastes like crap. Wild salmon is delicious, even fresh pink isnt too bad. I hate this process and will be glad to see it go.
2- With the above said, Alaska also exports a large amount of high-quality and very expensive fish to Asia. Think black cod and sushi-grade sockeye. I was supposed to have already gone up there, for black cod, but between them calling me, and my going up there (supposed to be 4/8), Trump imposed his tarriffs. I have no proof, but I suspect the two are related. About 60% of black cod is exported. I am hopeful that summer will still happen. I don't see how it can't still happen, one way or another. Fishing is crucial for the state of Alaska.
While I support more tarriffs, execution is key. And it pisses me off that electronics got exempted, while those of us who already were doing jobs that export to China are not getting a single concession. I have an alternative plan, but still need to go to Alaska to get the capital for it
I would like to add two points, that I have direct experience in and are relevant to your article.
1- the barbie doll example tracks with my experience in seafood processing in Alaska. Those pink salmon fillets in your freezer, that say "FAO 67" and "Product of China", were caught in Alaska, given a initial processing (head removed, guts, bloodline removed, eggs sent to a different process, where the Japanese grade them on-site, then are exported). Upon arrival in China, they are thawed, filleted and re-froze, then shipped back to the states. The fish has likely gone through 3 or more freeze/thaw cycles. Thats why cheap fish from stores tastes like crap. Wild salmon is delicious, even fresh pink isnt too bad. I hate this process and will be glad to see it go.
2- With the above said, Alaska also exports a large amount of high-quality and very expensive fish to Asia. Think black cod and sushi-grade sockeye. I was supposed to have already gone up there, for black cod, but between them calling me, and my going up there (supposed to be 4/8), Trump imposed his tarriffs. I have no proof, but I suspect the two are related. About 60% of black cod is exported. I am hopeful that summer will still happen. I don't see how it can't still happen, one way or another. Fishing is crucial for the state of Alaska.
While I support more tarriffs, execution is key. And it pisses me off that electronics got exempted, while those of us who already were doing jobs that export to China are not getting a single concession. I have an alternative plan, but still need to go to Alaska to get the capital for it
Interesting perspective, don’t usually hear from people working in the maritime industries. Appreciate you took the time to comment.
Very informative article, good work.