Advocacy Update l Major Win for Restaurants: Key Food Tariffs Removed—With Important Exceptions

President Trump has signed an Executive Order eliminating reciprocal tariffs on a wide range of food and agricultural imports—including coffee, tea, avocados, citrus, tomatoes, tropical fruits and juices, cocoa, spices, beef, and certain fertilizers. This change lowers costs and increases sourcing flexibility across the restaurant supply chain.

Zero-tariff treatment is retroactive to November 13, and restaurants may be eligible for refunds on duties already paid through standard CBP processes. Additional details, including the full list of newly duty-free items, can be found in Annex II of the federal guidance.

Important Clarifications:
 • Country-specific tariffs remain in place—imports from countries like Brazil and India are still tariffed, including their food and agricultural products.
 • Imported wine and spirits continue to face tariffs; they are not included in the EO.

What to Do Now:
 • Review invoices for affected products
 • Reach out to suppliers about pricing adjustments
 • File for duty refunds where applicable