16-04-2025
Coffee, tea prices in Tampa Bay could soon climb from tariffs
Your next cup of coffee may cost a latte as Tampa Bay roasters brace for increased importing costs from U.S. tariffs.
Why it matters: Coffee prices hit a 50-year high last year, and the U.S. market is especially vulnerable to tariffs because it relies on foreign countries for 99% of its coffee supply.
The latest: President Trump issued a 90-day pause last week on some tariffs, but a universal 10% tariff remains in effect for all foreign goods, while at least a 145% upcharge is now in effect for Chinese imports.
What we're hearing: Tampa-based Blind Tiger Coffee Roasters owner Roberto Torres called the tariffs "an arbitrary tax that, unfortunately, doesn't allow us to manage our costs effectively."
Blind Tiger sources its raw beans from Brazil, Guatemala, Ethiopia, Honduras, Peru and Panama, all of which are now subject to a 10% tariff. It also sources from Mexico, where raw beans are exempt.
Torres tells Axios that, between the tariffs and the already surging coffee prices, he'll need to raise prices.
"Every single cost we pass down because of raised tariffs — it's not because we're being greedy or trying to make more profit. It's not going toward better furniture, better equipment, or higher wages."
The big picture: Coffee won't be the only drink affected.
Abigail StClair, owner of TeBella Tea Co., says that with half of the world's tea coming from China and the lack of a sizable domestic market, she will also need to raise prices.
"Our strategy at this point will be to just ask forgiveness from our customers and to educate them on how our costs on these particular items have gone up so significantly," she tells Axios.
In addition to China, TeBella sources its tea from Japan, Sri Lanka, India, Taiwan and several other countries.
