Trump Announces New Tariffs On Trucks, Pharmaceuticals, And Furniture

New Tariffs Rolled Out

President Donald Trump announced Thursday that the United States will impose a sweeping set of new tariffs designed to bolster American manufacturing and protect key industries.

100% tariff on imported branded pharmaceuticals
25% tariff on heavy-duty truck imports
50% tariff on kitchen cabinets
30% tariff on upholstered furniture, beginning next week

Trump said the measures are necessary to counter massive surges of foreign imports that have undermined U.S. producers.

Protecting American Manufacturing

In outlining the policy, Trump highlighted the importance of shielding U.S. truck makers from what he called “unfair outside competition.” Companies expected to benefit include:

Peterbilt and Kenworth (owned by Paccar)
Freightliner (owned by Daimler Truck)

He emphasized that ensuring the strength of American truckers and manufacturers is critical for both economic stability and national security.

“We need our Truckers to be financially healthy and strong, for many reasons, but above all else, for National Security purposes,” Trump said.

Trade Partners Push Back

Mexico, the largest exporter of medium- and heavy-duty trucks to the United States, has voiced opposition. According to the U.S. International Trade Administration, Mexico is home to 14 truck and bus manufacturers and supplies 95% of U.S.-bound tractor trucks. Mexican officials noted that many of these vehicles contain roughly 50% U.S. components, including diesel engines.

Japan’s auto industry association has also resisted, arguing that Japanese companies have already reduced exports to America by shifting more truck production to U.S. plants.

Industry and Economic Effects

Imports of heavy trucks from Mexico have tripled since 2019, according to a January study.
Last year, the U.S. imported $128 billion in heavy vehicle parts from Mexico, making up nearly 28% of all American imports in that category.
Sweden’s Volvo Group is building a $700 million heavy-truck facility in Monterrey, Mexico, slated to open in 2026.
Stellantis, maker of Ram trucks and commercial vans, also produces in Mexico and may be affected by the tariffs.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce urged restraint, pointing out that top import sources include close American allies such as Mexico, Canada, Japan, Germany, and Finland.

Balancing Costs and Inflation

The new tariffs could raise costs on imported vehicles and goods. Analysts note that this may add some pressure to transportation expenses, even as Trump has pledged to continue working to reduce overall inflation, especially on essentials such as groceries.

Still, Trump and his administration argue the long-term gains — stronger U.S. industry, secure jobs, and less reliance on foreign supply chains — outweigh short-term challenges.