Hey fam, big news on the trade front! On Thursday, November 13, 2025, the US announced it will remove tariffs on staple foods like coffee ☕ and bananas 🍌 from Argentina, Ecuador, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
Tariffs are basically taxes on imports, so dropping them usually makes your fave products cheaper. Whether you're enjoying a morning kopi in Kuala Lumpur or grabbing banana cue in Manila, this could save you some extra cash! 💸
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also hinted that more "substantial" announcements are coming soon to tackle high living costs, potentially extending relief to other fruits, beef, and citrus. All in a bid to ease the pinch on wallets across the US.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Brazil's Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira kicked off talks on a US-Brazil trade framework. Brazil is the world's top coffee exporter, but its beans have faced a crushing 50% US duty, something both sides are eager to adjust. 🤝
This shift follows recent election setbacks for Republicans in New Jersey, New York, and Virginia, where high prices were front-and-center. The administration is leaning into affordability to win back voter confidence before the year ends.
The framework deals with the four countries should be finalized within two weeks, with more agreements possible by December. Stay tuned for updates that could mean cheaper sips and snacks soon! 😋
Reference(s):
U.S. to lift tariffs on certain goods from 4 Latin American countries
cgtn.com
