You’ll Never Believe How the Trump Tariffs Affected This Bottled Water Brand
June 5, 2025
You’ll Never Believe How the Trump Tariffs Affected This Bottled Water Brand
In the world of premium hydration, not all bottled water is created equal—especially when global politics come into play.
When former President Donald Trump implemented sweeping tariffs on imported goods, industries across the board felt the ripple effects. But one bottled water brand was hit particularly hard—and it might not be the one you expected: Fiji Water.
Fiji Water: A Pricey Consequence
Fiji Water, known for its pristine source deep in the South Pacific, has long been a symbol of luxury and purity. But being imported entirely from Fiji made it uniquely vulnerable. In 2025, a staggering 32% tariff was placed on goods from Fiji, directly impacting Fiji Water’s cost structure.
The result? Higher prices on shelves, tighter margins for retailers, and a potential decline in consumer demand—all because of international trade policies.
Meanwhile, U.S. Brands Played Defense
Brands like Poland Spring, Zephyrhills, and Deer Park, all produced in the U.S., were spared the direct blow of these tariffs. While they did face some rising costs from tariffs on imported equipment and packaging materials, their local production helped cushion the impact—keeping their prices far more stable.
Other Imports Felt the Pressure Too
Luxury European water brands like Evian and San Pellegrino also saw price increases due to tariffs on EU goods. But their already premium positioning meant consumers were somewhat prepared to pay more. For Fiji, the sudden spike felt more jarring.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
If you’ve noticed Fiji Water becoming more expensive—or harder to find—the Trump-era tariffs may be the reason why. It’s a fascinating case of how global economics can trickle down into something as everyday as a bottle of water.
Next time you’re hydrating, remember: there’s more behind that bottle than meets the eye.