US President Donald Trump on Friday signed a major executive order removing tariffs on a wide range of essential commodities, including beef, coffee, tropical fruits, tea, cocoa and several agricultural products. The move comes amid rising public frustration over inflation and soaring grocery prices across the United States.
The decision follows significant Democratic gains in recent off-year elections in Virginia and New Jersey, where economic concerns dominated voter sentiment. Analysts say the electoral setback served as a clear signal that Americans are feeling the strain of high living costs, prompting the administration to take corrective action.
Earlier this year, Trump imposed tariffs on several countries, arguing that the duties would not affect domestic prices. However, data and market responses suggested otherwise. Beef prices, in particular, surged sharply, and tariffs on Brazil — one of the largest exporters — were widely blamed for the spike. Acknowledging these pressures, Trump had recently hinted at easing trade restrictions to stabilise the market.
Under the new order, tariffs are removed from commodities such as bananas, oranges, tomatoes, fruit juices, spices and certain fertilisers — many of which are not produced domestically. Economists argue that reducing import taxes on such items will directly benefit consumers by lowering retail prices.
The policy shift coincides with new trade agreements with Ecuador, Guatemala, El Salvador and Argentina aimed at reducing import taxes on agricultural goods. Trump also indicated earlier this week that coffee tariffs were likely to be lowered as part of a broader push to boost imports and ease inflation.
While Trump continues to defend his economic strategy, insisting that his policies have strengthened key sectors, Americans continue to face rising costs for essentials like food, electricity and housing. The latest tariff rollback is expected to offer some relief as the administration tries to address growing economic discontent.
