Small business owners in the United States are feeling the impact of tariffs as Valentine's Day approaches. Chocolate makers and florists have reported increased costs for products like flowers and chocolate, which are crucial for the holiday. The U.S. imports most of its cacao from West Africa and a significant portion of its cut flowers from Colombia, Ecuador, and the Netherlands.
The Trump Administration has implemented tariffs ranging from 10% to 50% on nearly all imports since April, with an average tariff rate now exceeding 16.8%, the highest since 1935. These tariffs are affecting small businesses significantly during one of their peak sales periods.
Sam Ratto, owner of Videri Chocolate Factory in North Carolina, expressed concern over rising costs due to tariffs: "Valentine’s Day is one of our biggest holidays... When you tack on an increased cost of goods directly related to tariffs, that’s a tough pill to swallow." Sheryl White, owner of The Fiddly Fig in Kansas City, Missouri, highlighted how tariffs impact not just flowers but also essential arrangement components sourced globally. Abigail Helberg Moffitt from Bloom WNC shared her stress over unpredictable tariff changes impacting profits during key holidays.
Tariffs Cost US is a campaign providing information about global trade and tariffs' effects on businesses and consumers. More details can be found at tariffscostus.com.
