How New Tariffs Will Affect Food & Beverage Prices in 2025

Global trade is shifting again, and the new tariffs introduced in 2025 are set to impact food and beverage prices worldwide. For brands, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, understanding these changes is key to protecting margins and staying competitive.

If you're wondering how tariffs will impact food prices in 2025 or what tariffs mean for beverage costs, read on — we’ve broken it down.

Why New Tariffs Mean Higher Food & Beverage Prices

Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods. In 2025, new tariffs are targeting several key food and beverage categories. As import costs rise, these increases ripple through the entire supply chain, leading to higher prices on grocery store shelves and restaurant menus.

Brands that rely on imported ingredients will feel the impact first, but even those sourcing domestically may face higher costs if their suppliers are affected.

Food & Beverage Categories Most Affected by 2025 Tariffs

If you operate in any of the following product categories, you’ll want to monitor the tariff changes closely:

• Dairy products (milk powders, cheese, butter)
• Meat and poultry imports
• Seafood (shrimp, salmon, tuna)
• Fruits and nuts (almonds, oranges, berries)
• Beverages (wine, spirits, flavored waters, soft drinks)
• Processed foods (chocolate, sauces, packaged snacks)

These categories are seeing tariff increases that will directly affect prices and profit margins.

Understanding HS Codes: The Key to Tariff Rates

To fully grasp which products are affected by tariffs, you need to understand Harmonized System (HS) codes. These international codes classify every traded product and determine its tariff rate.

Here are examples of common food and beverage HS codes:

When new tariffs are introduced, they are applied based on these HS codes. So if you’re managing a food or beverage business, identifying your products’ codes is step one in assessing your exposure.

How Tariffs Drive Up Food and Beverage Costs

Let’s break down the typical chain reaction:

1. Import Costs Increase → Tariffs make imported goods more expensive.
2. Manufacturing Costs Rise → Higher ingredient costs raise production expenses.
3. Distribution & Wholesale Prices Go Up → Distributors pass along the added costs.
4. Retail Prices Climb → Brands and stores adjust shelf prices to maintain profit margins.
5. Consumers Pay More → Shoppers and diners feel the final price increases.

This ripple effect is why tariffs don’t just impact importers — they touch every part of the food and beverage ecosystem.

What Food & Beverage Brands Should Do in 2025

If you’re in the food and beverage space, here’s how to prepare for the 2025 tariffs:

• Audit Your Supply Chain: Identify products linked to HS codes facing higher duties.
• Source Smart: Explore domestic or non-tariffed country suppliers.
• Negotiate with Partners: Work with manufacturers, co-packers, and distributors to mitigate costs.
• Revise Pricing Strategies: Decide whether to absorb costs or pass them along gradually.
• Stay Informed: Tariff rules evolve — regular updates are crucial.

Need Help Navigating Tariff Changes?

At Apex Marketing and Sales, we specialize in helping food and beverage brands adapt to market changes, including tariff-related disruptions. Whether you need a new sourcing strategy, pricing guidance, or supply chain solutions, our team can help you stay ahead.

📞 Contact us today to discuss how we can help your brand manage the impact of tariffs and maintain growth in 2025 and beyond.