In a recent post on X, MrBeast, the popular YouTuber, reflected on the unexpected consequences of President Donald Trump's tariff increases. He shared an ironic observation: due to the new tariffs on imports to the U.S., it has become significantly cheaper for him to make his chocolate bars outside America. Well well, who would have thought Trump's attempt to 'Make America Great Again' could actually misfire?
On April 2, Trump unveiled his most extensive round of tariffs yet, which he referred to as "Liberation Day" as part of his "reciprocal" trade strategy.
In a passionate speech, he accused other nations of having "ripped off" the U.S. for years and announced that the U.S. would now impose a minimum 10% tax on nearly all of its trading partners, with higher rates of up to 50% for countries running trade surpluses with the U.S.
MrBeast took to X to highlight how these tariffs, meant to protect U.S. industries, have ironically made it cheaper to produce goods overseas rather than in America.
In his case, the chocolate bars he sells globally could now be produced more cost-effectively outside the U.S., because they avoid these hefty import taxes.
He also highlighted the challenges his business faces, explaining that even though he prioritises paying fair wages to farmers and uses fair-trade certified cocoa, the extra costs brought on by the tariffs were still a tough blow.
Despite this, he reassured his followers that they would figure it out and continue their operations.
However, his concern wasn't just for his own business; he expressed empathy for small businesses. For them, the impact of such tariff hikes could be devastating, a potential "nail in the coffin" for many who might not have the resources to absorb such additional costs.
In comments, one simply said, "That's wild. Tariffs meant to protect actually push production abroad. Completely defeats the purpose, economically speaking."
Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, is currently the world's highest-earning content creator.
Capitalising on his massive social media following, he has expanded into various business ventures, including launching his own chocolate brand in 2022.
The company produces its products in both the United States and Peru.
As reported by Bloomberg, his chocolate company achieved sales of approximately $250 million and a profit exceeding $20 million last year.
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