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Trump Exempts Key Food Imports from Tariffs Amid Rising Costs
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday exempting over 100 food products-including coffee, bananas, beef, avocados, and mangoes-from his sweeping import tariffs, a move aimed at easing consumer price pressures ahead of the holiday season.
Pressure Mounts Over Inflation
The decision follows growing criticism over rising grocery costs, which have climbed 2.7% year-over-year, according to the Department of Labor. While Trump previously dismissed concerns about affordability as a "con job" by Democrats, his administration has faced intensified scrutiny since the Republican Party's underperformance in last week's midterm elections.
Economists have long warned that tariffs-currently a baseline 10% on all imports, with additional levies on select trading partners-would drive up consumer prices. The White House now acknowledges that certain exempted goods, like coffee and tropical fruits, cannot be produced domestically in sufficient quantities.
Policy Reversal on Trade
Trump has defended tariffs as necessary to reduce the U.S. trade deficit, framing them as a response to foreign "cheaters" exploiting American markets. However, the latest exemptions mark a shift as the administration seeks to lower prices on staples. Speaking to reporters, Trump downplayed the rollback as minor, stating, "We just did a little bit of a rollback on some foods, like coffee... Now they'll be on the low side in a very short period of time."
The exemptions take effect retroactively as of midnight on November 13. In a parallel move, the White House announced reduced import taxes on coffee and bananas through trade deals with four Latin American countries, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pledging a 20% drop in coffee prices this year.
Broader Economic Context
Despite Trump's claims that tariffs would not burden consumers, inflation data and industry pushback-including his recent call for an investigation into alleged "price manipulation" by meat-packing companies-highlight persistent economic tensions. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing the legality of the tariffs, even as the administration offers $2,000 rebate checks to offset costs.
When asked if further rollbacks were possible, Trump asserted, "I don't think it'll be necessary," emphasizing that the latest changes target imports with no domestic equivalents.
Exempted Products
The White House list includes:
- Coffee and cocoa
- Fresh fruits (avocados, bananas, mangoes, coconuts)
- Vegetables (tomatoes)
- Beef and other meats
"Supplies have stabilized, but we remain committed to protecting American industries where possible."
White House statement, November 15, 2025
