A Terrible Week for Pumpkin Spice

Published: Friday, August 29, 2025 at 11:30 am

Pumpkin Spice Faces Tariff Threat

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, the annual pumpkin spice frenzy is upon us. This year, however, the beloved flavor faces a potential challenge: increased costs due to new tariffs. The Trump administration recently imposed a 50% tariff on imports from India, a major exporter of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, the core ingredients of the pumpkin spice blend.

The timing of these tariffs is particularly unfortunate for the "Pumpkin-Spice Industrial Complex," which has expanded to include everything from protein shakes to dog treats. While the initial impact may be minimal, with current prices of popular items like the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) remaining stable for now, experts predict price increases are inevitable. Companies like McCormick, a global spice supplier, anticipate significant financial losses due to the tariffs.

The popularity of pumpkin spice has grown steadily since the introduction of the PSL in 2003. What began as a seasonal trend has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, embraced by many. Despite initial backlash and criticism, pumpkin spice has become so ubiquitous that its presence is now a sign of the season.

The tariffs could affect more than just the cost of pumpkin spice products. The price of coffee, paper cups, and packaging materials could also increase, impacting the overall cost of the fall experience. This situation underscores the broader economic implications of the ongoing trade war and its potential impact on consumers.

BNN's Perspective: While the tariffs pose a challenge to the pumpkin spice industry, it's important to remember that the market is adaptable. Companies will likely seek alternative sourcing and adjust pricing to mitigate the impact. The enduring popularity of pumpkin spice suggests that consumers will continue to embrace the flavor, even if it comes at a slightly higher cost.

Keywords: pumpkin spice, tariffs, India, spices, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, Starbucks, PSL, trade war, McCormick, consumer trends, autumn, fall, price increase, imports.

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