Trump's Global Tariffs Backfire: Brazil, India Shift Coffee, Seafood Exports To China—US Consumers Face Higher Prices

Trump’s sweeping tariffs are driving exporters in Brazil and India toward China, while U.S. manufacturers and consumers brace for higher costs, according to Benzinga. Brazil, hit with a 50% U.S. import tax, is redirecting coffee exports to China’s booming cafe market, with more than 180 firms registering for shipments. Indian tea and seafood exporters are shifting strategies after the U.S. imposed 50% tariffs and extra levies over New Delhi’s oil trade with Moscow. China and Europe are emerging as alternative markets, though exporters warn of competition from African suppliers. Trump dismissed tensions with India, saying ties remain strong despite criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s engagement with Russia and China. U.S. manufacturing shrank for the sixth straight month in August, with the ISM PMI at 48.7%. Executives across food, electronics, and machinery industries blamed tariffs for rising costs, layoffs, and stalled reshoring, with some warning conditions rival the 2008–09 recession.