President Trump has announced a major shift in his trade policy, scrapping tariffs on beef, coffee, tropical fruits and a wide range of other commodities. The move is seen as a significant step to address mounting pressure from consumers over high prices at grocery stores.
The administration had argued that the tariffs were necessary to boost domestic production and stimulate the economy. However, critics say that the policy has backfired, leading to higher prices for essential items like beef, which has been particularly affected by the tariffs imposed on Brazil, a major exporter of the product.
Trump's decision comes as voters in off-year elections cited economic concerns as their top issue, resulting in big wins for Democrats. The move is also seen as an acknowledgement that his policies are hurting American consumers.
The White House claims that the tariffs were necessary to protect U.S. industries and fill government coffers. However, Democrats have been quick to paint the decision as a recognition that Trump's policies are raising prices and hurting consumers.
The removal of tariffs on these commodities is expected to lead to lower prices for U.S. consumers. The Food Industry Association has welcomed the move, saying it will ensure continued adequate supply at affordable prices.
Trump's decision follows framework agreements with key trading partners Ecuador, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Argentina, which aim to increase trade in industrial and agricultural products while easing tariffs on agricultural products produced in these countries.
The President had hinted earlier that lower tariffs might be coming, particularly for coffee. The move is seen as a sign of the administration's willingness to adapt its policies in response to growing pressure from consumers and critics.
The administration had argued that the tariffs were necessary to boost domestic production and stimulate the economy. However, critics say that the policy has backfired, leading to higher prices for essential items like beef, which has been particularly affected by the tariffs imposed on Brazil, a major exporter of the product.
Trump's decision comes as voters in off-year elections cited economic concerns as their top issue, resulting in big wins for Democrats. The move is also seen as an acknowledgement that his policies are hurting American consumers.
The White House claims that the tariffs were necessary to protect U.S. industries and fill government coffers. However, Democrats have been quick to paint the decision as a recognition that Trump's policies are raising prices and hurting consumers.
The removal of tariffs on these commodities is expected to lead to lower prices for U.S. consumers. The Food Industry Association has welcomed the move, saying it will ensure continued adequate supply at affordable prices.
Trump's decision follows framework agreements with key trading partners Ecuador, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Argentina, which aim to increase trade in industrial and agricultural products while easing tariffs on agricultural products produced in these countries.
The President had hinted earlier that lower tariffs might be coming, particularly for coffee. The move is seen as a sign of the administration's willingness to adapt its policies in response to growing pressure from consumers and critics.