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Farmers, Small Firms Say Tariffs Are Lifting Food Costs as White House Touts Deals

Producers say new levies are lifting costs that pass through to holiday food bills.

Proponents of Trump's trade strategy argue that tariffs are not a direct driver of price hikes in key sectors like housing, food or health care
First Lady Melania Trump looks on as US President Donald Trump pardons Gobble, one of the National Thanksgiving turkeys, during the White House turkey pardon ceremony in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, DC
'When... crops cost more to grow, the price per pound of turkey goes up,' a farmer says

Overview

  • Growers and distributors report higher input costs tied to tariffs on materials and goods, with a North Carolina farmer raising prices on collards, kale and lettuce mix.
  • A Utah holiday‑decor company says it is facing nearly $1 million in unexpected tariff charges this year, forcing sales at a loss to cover duties.
  • Government data show grocery prices up 2.7% year over year in September, while the American Farm Bureau cites wholesale turkey prices about 40% higher due to avian illness.
  • President Trump says prices are coming down and the White House points to cheaper retailer Thanksgiving promotions, as tariff supporters argue supply chains are absorbing most levies.
  • Advocacy groups estimate Thanksgiving costs rose roughly 10% from last year and note recent tariff rollbacks on staples were too late to ease this season’s bills, with farmers calling for trade access over bailouts.