US lifts tariffs on bananas, beef, coffee, and more

President Donald Trump signed an executive order yesterday to remove reciprocal tariffs on key grocery items, including beef, tomatoes, bananas, coffee, and several other items, to ease the price pressures households have faced since global levies took effect.

Officials said the exemptions, which take effect immediately, cover several tariffs imposed in April on almost all countries that trade with the US.

The move comes after the US had already secured new trade agreements with Switzerland, Argentina, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Uruguay.

The decision also reflects rising anxiety inside the White House about consumer inflation. Grocery prices have remained stubbornly high, despite campaign promises to lower them.

Prices of some items, such as beef and coffee, have seen a significant surge.

In the year leading up to September, coffee prices increased by 19%, driven by adverse weather conditions and tariffs of 50% on imports from Brazil and 20% on goods from Vietnam, both major coffee suppliers.

The price of beef rose 50% in the same period. Banana prices increased by 7% in September compared to the previous year.

Economists say the administration’s shift signals recognition that tariffs fueled these increases. Recent data show that goods facing tariffs have risen faster than untaxed items as companies pass more costs to consumers. 

The exemptions could frustrate domestic producers, especially cattle ranchers, who argue that more imports undercut the administration’s “America First” message.