New Tariffs Are Coming—What US Spice Buyers Need to Know

Landscape image showing eight small mounds of colorful spices arranged on a burlap surface, including turmeric, chili powder, and black pepper. On the right side, a white paper card with bold black letters reads 'TARIFFS,' symbolizing the impact of trade policies on spice imports.
31Mar

New Tariffs Are Coming—What US Spice Buyers Need to Know

A broad new tariff plan is expected to be announced on April 2, 2025. According to early briefings, the measure will apply to nearly all goods imported from major U.S. trading partners. Unlike previous rounds of tariffs that targeted specific industries or products, this time the approach appears to be sweeping, with no sector-based exemptions currently in place.

For U.S. spice buyers—particularly those sourcing in bulk—the implications are real and immediate.

What’s Expected

The initiative, called “Liberation Day,” is built around the concept of “reciprocal tariffs.” In short, the U.S. would apply the same duties to imports that other countries apply to U.S. exports. While it’s framed as a rebalancing move, the reality for businesses is that import costs are likely to rise across the board.

This could apply to everyday essentials such as cumin, turmeric, black pepper, garlic, ginger, and chili powder—products that are mostly imported from countries like India, Vietnam, China, Mexico, and Peru. These nations are all likely to be affected by the new tariffs. In similar cases in recent years, importers reported cost hikes of 15–20% due to added duties.

So far, there has been no mention of exemptions for agricultural products that are not commercially grown in the U.S.—a key concern for the spice industry.

Why It Matters

The U.S. is not self-sufficient in spice production. A large share of herbs, seeds, and dried spices used by manufacturers, food processors, and retailers is sourced from abroad. Even a small tariff can trigger disruptions in pricing, inventory planning, and contract negotiations. For a segment that already operates on tight margins, this kind of policy shift requires immediate attention.

What Bulk Buyers Can Do

Now is the time to act, before uncertainty turns into cost pressure. Here are a few recommended steps:

  • Review your supplier base. Explore whether your current partners are in countries likely to face the highest tariffs. Consider alternatives.
  • Check existing contracts. Lock in pricing or add flexibility for possible adjustments once tariffs are confirmed.
  • Increase inventory, selectively. If cash flow allows, stock up on core spices with stable demand and long shelf life.
  • Stay connected to industry advocacy. The American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) has already voiced concerns and may push for relief or exemptions on key products. Follow their updates.

Final Note

This is not a wait-and-see situation. Regardless of political viewpoints, the practical side of sourcing demands preparation. Bulk buyers—especially those involved in manufacturing or private label spice blends—will need to monitor policy changes closely and have a plan in place to adapt quickly.

Sources

Associated Press. (2025, March 30). Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ plan includes new tariffs with no exemptions so far. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/86639b7b6358af65e2cbad31f8c8ae2b

The Independent. (2025, March 31). Trump to announce ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs that could raise prices on nearly all imports. The Independent. https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-liberation-day-tariff-prices-b2724590.html

Majestic Spice. (2025, March). New U.S. tariffs and their impact on the spice industry. MajesticSpice.com. https://www.majesticspice.com/new-u-s-tariffs-and-their-impact-on-the-spice-industry/

New York Post. (2025, March 31). Trump’s major global tariffs have ‘no exemptions at this time,’ White House says. https://nypost.com/2025/03/31/us-news/trumps-major-global-tariffs-have-no-exemptions-at-this-time-wh-says/

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