
CHICAGO, August 8, 2025 —The National Restaurant Association plans to survey its members to calibrate the impact on the restaurant industry of the Trump Administration’s so-called reciprocal tariffs, which went into effect today.
In a video message sent this morning to members, Public Affairs EVP Sean Kennedy reviewed which of the surcharges are likely to be of greatest concern to the business.
He noted that restaurant operators are already bracing for an upswing in the prices of packaging and furnishings, much of which is imported.
Addressing the possible impact on food and beverage costs, Kennedy highlighted the 15% duty that’s been leveled on imports from the European Union, including wines, liquors, and other alcohol products from Italy, France, and Spain.
Goods imported from Brazil, including beef and coffee, will be subject to a 50% tariff, Kennedy noted.
He noted that foods and beverages imported from Canada have been exempted. A temporary exemption of 90 days has been extended to Mexican imports, and it’s the association’s hope that the imports from south of the border will become permanent, Kennedy said.
He reiterated the association’s position that it appreciates President Trump’s efforts to improve the United States’ balance of trade but doesn’t view tariffs on food and beverage imports as being material to that effort. It has asked the administration to exempt foods and beverages from the tariffs across the board.
The tariffs went into effect today after several delays. Trump’s original date for imposing the duties was the first week in July.
As Managing Editor for IFMA The Food Away from Home Association, Romeo is responsible for generating the group's news and feature content. He brings more than 40 years of experience in covering restaurants to the position.
Cover image courtesy: Closed Loop Project