President Trump puts 90-day pause on tariffs, but a local brewery is still preparing

MARYLAND. – President Donald Trump’s new tariffs are under a 90-day pause – except on Chinese goods. Despite this, local breweries remain concerned about their future financial outlook. John Scheckells, the operations manager for EVO Brewery, said they already have contingency plans. “We’re looking to see a 50% or 55% increase in costs.”

The tariffs on imported goods will be on costs for grains, aluminum, and cardboard. If officially implemented, these costs may become the highest ever in the nation. Companies are preparing for what’s potentially ahead.

President Trump is excited about the changes. At the National Republican Committee Dinner, he argued this would be best for the country’s future. “I think the tariffs situation helps us a lot. This is a beneficial situation, it’s going to be legendary, in a positive way.”

EVO officials and Scheckells disagree; Scheckells believes few options exist. “It’s going to be to either find alternate suppliers. U.S. suppliers are not going to cut their costs to be more competitive.”

Scheckells said the brewery could use freight options, but those aren’t as tangible. “Freight is a major issue for us. We may find product domestically, but the way to get that product here is by freight, which makes the costs out of reach.”

EVO and other companies may have to raise prices across the board. President Trump thinks these changes will encourage consumers to buy more American-made goods. “I know what I’m doing. These countries are kissing my butt, dying to make a deal. I’ll do anything, I’ll do anything, sir, they say.”

President Trump has said he and his cabinet hope to work on solutions with the country’s trading partners during the pause.