U.S. President Donald Trump has unveiled a package of hefty tariffs set to roll out on October 1, 2025. This move, targeting key sectors from pharmaceuticals to furniture and heavy vehicles, aims to supercharge American manufacturing and shore up national security.
Here's the breakdown:
- 100% tariff on branded or patented pharmaceutical products, unless companies are "building" a manufacturing plant in the U.S. ("building" defined as breaking ground or under construction).
- 50% tariff on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and related goods.
- 30% tariff on upholstered furniture.
- 25% tariff on heavy trucks made abroad.
Trump argues that foreign flooding of these imports undercuts domestic producers. While large drugmakers are already planning U.S. factory expansions, smaller players worry about the cost and compliance challenges under the new rules.
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows these policies have real impact: furniture prices jumped 4.7% year-over-year in August 2025, with living and dining room sets up nearly 9.5% over the past year.
Earlier tariffs on steel, aluminum, copper and autos nudged automakers to explore sourcing parts from Mexico under the USMCA trade deal. Now, the Supreme Court will decide in October if the administration's use of emergency powers to impose broad duties is lawful.
As the October rollout approaches, global markets and manufacturers are bracing for a new era of U.S. trade policy – one that prioritizes domestic builds and tests the limits of presidential authority.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
