A new initiative by US Representatives Jill Tokuda and William Timmons aims to safeguard the coffee industry from tariffs that could raise prices and harm the economy. The Congressional Coffee Caucus, co-chaired by Tokuda and Timmons, has sent a bipartisan letter to the United States Trade Representative, urging the removal of tariffs on coffee imports. The letter highlights that coffee cannot be produced in sufficient quantities domestically to meet demand, as less than 1% of US consumption comes from local sources like Hawaii and Puerto Rico. The coffee sector supports millions of jobs and generates substantial economic output, making it vital for the US economy.
• The coffee industry provides 2.2 million jobs and contributes $343 billion to the economy annually.
• A proposed 50% tariff on Brazilian coffee imports could significantly increase prices.
• The average price of coffee has already risen from $6.25 to $8.13 per pound in a year.
• Coffee shops and distributors could face major challenges if tariffs are implemented.
This effort is crucial for maintaining affordable coffee prices and protecting jobs in the coffee sector. With coffee being a staple for many Americans, the potential impact of tariffs could resonate far beyond just the price at the café.
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