New tariffs in Mexico, Canada and China are likely to raise prices for popular imports and major foods, so meals could soon be a little more expensive.
As a massive amount of avocado, tomatilos for sale in California, dried chili, and even tequila for sale from Mexico, Southern California bars and restaurants have more costs than just customers.
Claremont’s Elvira grill has a significant portion of its ingredients, including salsas tomatoes and tomatillos imported from Mexico.
“The other thing we use a lot is lime,” said Oscar Torres, owner of Elvira’s grill. “All of our margaritas are made with fresh lime juice and we pass 150 cases a week at this restaurant.”
The 25% tariff, originally proposed in February, came into effect on Tuesday, delayed 30 days in response to concessions from Mexico and Canada on immigration. press. Trump cited the ongoing influx of drugs across America’s borders.
An additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods has also been in effect.
“If you generally buy about $100,000 worth of produce, we’ll add another 25%. That’ll have a big impact on our costs,” Torres explained, noting that they stock tequila products before prices go up.
“We are about to ship about 100 cases of tequila for preparation, so if the price rises, it won’t take effect immediately,” the bar owner said.
Retailers like Target expect consumers to absorb higher prices, so SMEs like Torres believe they have to pass the cost burden on their customers and patrons.
“The only way you can offset that is by increasing the price, which is a concern as tariffs are being put into effect,” Torres said.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, nine of the 10 avocados consumed in the United States are imported from Mexico.
Tomatoes, berries and peppers are also the best imports from neighboring counties and tequila, and are not made elsewhere in the world.
Restaurant and bar owners may also face additional ripple effects of tariffs.
“What happened to everyday consumers? They won’t be able to go out as much because it’s too expensive, which will have a big impact,” Torres said.
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