What Tariff Rollbacks Might Mean for Restaurant Costs

The recent Executive Order modifying tariffs on a number food and agricultural products could potentially bring relief to restaurant operators struggling with rising costs, but its full effect will not be immediate. Items such as coffee, cocoa, beef, and tomatoes may see improved pricing and availability however, country-specific tariffs such as those affecting products from Brazil and India do remain in place and continue to influence operator costs.

Eliminating tariffs on these goods is a common-sense step to strengthen the food supply chain, reduce cost pressures, and support menu innovation, National Restaurant Association President and CEO Michelle Korsmo noted, urging the administration to address additional actions on other items essential to restaurants such as alcohol, supplies, and equipment.

The more consumers understand the impact of the growing, harvesting and supply-chain cycle conditions, the more accepting they will be with the higher pricing.

“Restaurants depend on…