Tags: Trump tariffs, coffee prices, import duties, local businesses, U.S. agriculture, inflation impact, small business response, international trade
New Tariffs May Impact Daily Coffee Costs
New tariffs imposed by the Trump administration are expected to affect everyday consumer goods—including your daily cup of coffee. Coffee beans imported from Central and South America are now facing a 10% tariff, which may soon be reflected in prices at your local café.
Coffee Shops Feel the Pressure
At Float Coffee Shop in Hollywood, barista Marcus Wells explains that their beans come directly from regions affected by the new tariffs. As a result, customers could see an increase of about 10% on each cup. While some loyal patrons plan to continue supporting local shops, others say the higher costs may force them to cut back in other areas.
Why the U.S. Can’t Grow Its Own Coffee
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. is the second-largest importer of coffee. That’s because coffee doesn’t grow well in most parts of the country due to climate limitations, aside from select areas in California and Hawaii. “Tariffs aim to boost domestic production,” Wells explains, “but coffee is just something we can’t make here in large quantities.”
Some Shops Vow to Hold Prices Steady
Despite rising costs, not all shops are raising prices. Andrew Sinclair, owner of Mad Lab Coffee in Los Angeles, says his prices will remain unchanged. “If a cup of coffee cost $9, I’d probably stop seeing my regulars,” he said. “And I really enjoy seeing people every day.”
Sinclair credits long-standing relationships with growers in Colombia and Ethiopia for giving his business the flexibility to weather market changes. His message to customers: “If you can afford a good cup of coffee, support your local shop. But if it means missing rent, skip the coffee. That’s just not responsible.”
Leave a Reply