November 17, 2025

Coffee Tariff Update: Most Producing Countries Exempt from Tariffs

Andrew Blyth
Coffee Trading Operations Manager, Purchase & Sales

As of 11/14/25, future coffee imported into the U.S. is now exempt from import tariffs, EXCEPT for Brazil & India. Keep reading to learn how this coffee tariff rollback will impact your future orders.

Coffee Tariff Rollback

On Friday, November 14th, the industry received positive news regarding the reciprocal tariffs. The White House announced that coffee and tea have been added to Annex II, making coffee once again exempt from tariffs on goods imported to the U.S. While this is hopeful news for future coffee prices, it comes with one important exception: a remaining 40% tariff on all imports from Brazil. This is the same tariff imposed in August 2025 that stemmed from political issues involving the former President of Brazil, Jair Bolsanaro. There is also a remaining 25% tariff on coffee from India. Although this is a substantial tariff percentage for coffee, it’s for a supplier that is much less significant in the U.S. market.

coffee tariff chart 11.17

The Brazil Coffee Tariff

Once signed, the Trump Administration’s order went into effect immediately. However, we have yet to see any impact on coffee prices for importers, roasters, and, ultimately, consumers. A remaining 40% tariff on the largest coffee-producing/exporting nation is enough to keep the “C” market high, especially when you consider that Brazil is the #1 supplier of coffee to the U.S. In fact, Brazil actually accounts for 45% of coffee consumed nationally.

Brazil and India aside, we consider this widespread tariff relief to be helpful news for coffee prices. With all other producing countries becoming tariff-free again (for now, at least), roasters will see relief on forward differentials. That being said, instore domestic inventories will still be impacted by tariffs already incurred. There has been no announcement of any return or refund of tariffs already paid on coffee.

Going Forward

For the moment, we think the gameplan for roasters remains the same: make sure you’re covered through the holidays. Look to purchase only what you’ll need to cover you through new crop for any must-have offering. After that, continue to explore and shop for alternatives to Brazil. Thankfully, there will be more tariff-exempt options in the coming months other than Mexico. Stay tuned—we’ll continue to provide updates on Brazil, tariffs, and the “C” market.

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