YouTube sensation MrBeast, whose real name is James Donaldson, has expressed concerns about the adverse effects of US President Donald Trump’s global tariffs on his chocolate bar venture, Feastables. The tariffs have significantly impacted the cost of production within the United States, making it more economical for MrBeast to manufacture his products abroad, where such tariffs do not apply.
In a recent post on X, MrBeast highlighted the irony that, due to the new tariffs exceeding 20% on imports, producing chocolate for international markets has become more financially viable than manufacturing in America. He emphasised that he ethically sources his cocoa beans, ensuring they are fair trade and that farmers are compensated fairly, yet has been affected by unexpected price hikes in raw materials, describing the situation as “pretty brutal.”
MrBeast acknowledged the struggles faced by small businesses in this challenging economic climate, stating, “We’ll figure it out. I feel for small businesses though.” His sentiment reflects a wider concern about how these tariffs may pose significant challenges to smaller enterprises, potentially leading to dire consequences for their operations.
Despite the challenges, MrBeast remains committed to his business and philanthropy, known for his elaborate giveaways and impactful content on social media. Interestingly, he has not publicly endorsed either Trump or Biden in the upcoming 2024 election, preferring to maintain a neutral stance amidst the political landscape.
His experience serves as a telling example of how global trade policies can ripple through industries, affecting everything from production costs to ethical sourcing practices, underscoring the complexities faced by modern entrepreneurs in a globally interconnected economy.