1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

In April 2025, President Donald Trump announced a comprehensive tariff policy known as "Liberation Day," aiming to address trade deficits and promote economic independence. This policy included a universal 10% tariff on imports from all countries, with additional country-specific tariffs targeting approximately 60 nations deemed to have unfair trade practices. Notably, Colombia, which supplies 20% of U.S. coffee imports, was subjected to a 25% tariff, escalating to 50% within a week. Wikipedia+1Business Insider+1 (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Trump%27s_Liberation_Day_speech?utm_source=chatgpt.com)Axios (https://www.axios.com/2025/01/26/trump-colombia-tariffs-coffee?utm_source=chatgpt.com) The Impacts of Coffee Tariffs: 1 Higher Prices for Consumers:
The tariffs have led to increased costs for coffee beans, resulting in higher prices for consumers. For example, Starbucks faced a 46% reciprocal tariff on imports from Vietnam and a 10% tariff from Costa Rica, challenging the company's commitment to price stability. 2 Economic Strain on Small Businesses:
Small coffee shops and cafes are struggling with rising costs due to the tariffs, leading to higher beverage prices and potential job losses. Analysts warn that these measures could drive up costs for companies reliant on imports, potentially leading to layoffs and reduced consumer spending. 3 Job Losses in the Coffee Industry:
The increased costs and reduced demand have led to job losses within the coffee sector, affecting employment from production to retail. JPMorgan analysts have raised concerns about a heightened risk of recession, attributing it partly to these tariffs, which function like a significant tax hike, potentially equivalent to 2.4% of the U.S. GDP. 4 Harm to Trade Relations with Key Coffee-Producing Countries:
The tariffs have strained relationships with major coffee-exporting nations, including Colombia, Brazil, and Vietnam. Colombia's response to the tariffs has raised concerns about a potential surge in coffee prices, further burdening American consumers. Why Repeal is Necessary: • Consumers deserve affordable coffee: The tariffs have led to higher prices, making coffee less affordable for many Americans. • Small businesses need support, not added burdens: The tariffs create financial strain for small coffee-related businesses, many of which are struggling to cope with increased costs. • The broader economy needs to recover: Removing the tariffs would reduce unnecessary costs, support American jobs, and strengthen U.S. trade relations with important allies. • Tariffs have not achieved their intended goals: The tariffs have not significantly reduced trade imbalances but have instead led to negative consequences for American consumers and businesses.