Trump's Proposed Tariffs and Policies Could Drive Up Thanksgiving Costs in 2025

Economists warn that President-elect Trump's tariff plans and immigration policies may significantly increase food prices and disrupt supply chains.

President-elect Donald Trump has proposed a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada, with additional tariffs on imports from other countries, potentially raising consumer prices on imported food items.
Experts predict that staples like fruits, vegetables, and spices—commonly imported for U.S. consumption—may see sharp price increases due to these tariffs.
Trump's immigration policies, including plans for mass deportations, could disrupt the agricultural labor force, which heavily relies on undocumented workers, further driving up costs for domestically grown produce.
The potential impact of these policies mirrors past instances where labor shortages led to crops rotting in fields, as seen in Alabama following its 2011 immigration law.
Public health concerns, such as the ongoing spread of avian influenza, could exacerbate price hikes for poultry and dairy products if not effectively managed by the incoming administration.