Trump recently implemented a series of tariffs aimed at imports from various other countries. But what does this mean for the average American consumer? It seems that many of our favorite items may be at risk of a price increase. At a time when the economy is not at its finest, these tariffs may require that we stretch every dollar as far as possible. Let’s find out what impact these tariffs may have on several popular items.
Strawberries
There is nothing quite like a romantic date consisting of a fancy meal, followed by champagne and strawberries. Yet, this item may soon only be for the wealthy. In 2022 alone, the United States imported more than 250 million kilograms of Mexican strawberries. That equates to an estimated value of around $1.08 billion. In fact, Mexico supplies the United States with around 85% of all strawberries on the market. With the new tariffs in place, the price of a pint of strawberries is expected to reach $5.
Avocados
Imagine going to your favorite Mexican restaurant only to discover that their famous guacamole is now made with chickpeas instead of avocados. Well, this is an option many restaurant owners are considering due to the lack of avocado supply. Over 90% of the avocados on the American market are actually imported from Mexico. The reality is that the 25% tariff increase has caused the price of avos to surge, making this beloved item out of reach for many avo lovers. There was already a recent surge in wholesale prices from $75 to $85 per crate of 48 large avocados. This new tariff will make it even more expensive.
Nuts
Prepare to go a little nuts after you hear this one. Pecan and almond nut prices are about to rise rather significantly. This will also have a knock-on effect on other related items, such as nut butters, trail mixes, and almond milk. Many consumers are already looking for substitutes in response to the changing tariffs. They are considering alternatives such as plant-based milk products and locally sourced nuts. It is not only nuts that will be affected, though. In 2023 alone, almost 47% of nuts and fruits consumed in the States came from Mexico.
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Seafood
The United States seafood market is heavily dependent on imports, with roughly 94% of seafood consumed domestically coming from other countries. In 2025, this market is expected to generate $31.5 billion in revenue. With the United States placing a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, the prices of many different seafood products are projected to rise significantly. Depending on the catch, costs may rise by as much as $1 to $3 per pound. Even the popular seafood options, such as canned tuna and frozen fish sticks, are going to cost more than usual.
Beer
I’m sorry, beer lovers, but you may have to prepare yourself for some sobering news. The recently imposed aluminum tariffs are heavily affecting breweries. The 25% tariff increase is affecting most of the craft beers that are sold in aluminum cans. Additionally, a 25% tariff on Canadian barley has also been put into place. This further increases the sales price as Canadian barley is a key ingredient in many types of beer. Breweries are having to deal with $60 million being added to their cost structure. This will mean that consumers will pay around 3% to 8% more for their beer.
Maple Syrup
Canada is a major global supplier of maple syrup, accounting for 70% of its production worldwide. However, the United States will soon find itself in a sticky situation, considering the recent 25% tariff. What would pancakes be like without a dripping layer of maple syrup? American consumers, it seems, are about to find out. The tariff apparently also affects the price of Canadian-manufactured syrup production equipment. This means that even locally made syrup will be more expensive, leaving us with few alternatives. Maple syrup is not the only sweet treat about to get pricier, though. In late 2024, chocolate hit a record-high price of $10.32 per kilogram! Even premium brands are having to adjust their prices in response.
Cosmetics
It is not only food items that are going to be affected, though. With the United States slapping tariffs on imports from Mexico, China, and Canada, cosmetics and beauty products are becoming more expensive, too. There are an estimated 25,000 beauty products that will be affected, mostly those coming from China. Cosmetics will be one of the hardest hit beauty products, with more than 11,000 products estimated to be at risk. This means that a trip to the salon could end up costing much more than usual.