U.S. Drops Coffee Tariffs, But Price Relief Lags for Local Cafés

The U.S. government has lifted long-standing import tariffs on roasted coffee from Brazil. However, customers at many Portland cafés should not expect lower prices immediately. Industry experts explain that supply chain contracts create a delay. Most local roasters and cafés purchase their green coffee beans several months in advance. Consequently, the beans currently being roasted and sold were bought under the old, higher tariff rates. The financial benefit of the tariff removal will only be realized once businesses cycle through their existing, more expensive inventory. “The relief is real, but it is not instantaneous,” explained one local roaster. They anticipate price adjustments could take effect within the next quarter.