Cost of fresh produce set to rise as tariffs impact imports

The cost of eating healthy is climbing as new tariffs on imported fruits and vegetables begin to impact grocery stores and restaurants, pushing prices higher for consumers.

President Donald Trump has defended the move, saying higher tariffs will help boost domestic production and create jobs. But economist Alex Durante with the Tax Foundation said the United States does not have the climate or infrastructure to grow enough fruits and vegetables to meet demand — a key reason much of the country’s produce is imported.

"In the U.S., we only grow bananas in Hawaii and Florida, and in a very limited capacity," Durante said. "I mean, more than 90% of all bananas that are consumed in the U.S. are imported from abroad."

ADDITIONAL REPORTING |

U.S. dependence on imported farm products is increa