President Donald Trump blasted Walmart on Saturday after America’s largest retailer warned it would raise prices due to new tariffs. The heated exchange has captured nationwide attention as consumers worry about potential price hikes on everyday essentials.
“Stop Blaming Tariffs,” Trump Tells Retail Giant
“Walmart should STOP trying to blame Tariffs as the reason for raising prices throughout the chain,” Trump declared in a fiery Truth Social post. The president pointed to Walmart’s massive profits, stating the company “made BILLIONS OF DOLLARS last year, far more than expected.”
Trump’s message was blunt: “Between Walmart and China they should, as is said, ‘EAT THE TARIFFS,’ and not charge valued customers ANYTHING.” He concluded with a warning that resonated with his base: “I’ll be watching, and so will your customers!!!”
Walmart Warns of Price Increases Despite “Narrow Margins”
The president’s comments came just days after Walmart CEO Doug McMillon warned during Thursday’s earnings call that price increases were unavoidable. Despite the administration’s recent reduction of Chinese tariffs from 145% to 30% for a 90-day period, McMillon stated the company couldn’t absorb all costs.
“Given the magnitude of the tariffs, even at the reduced levels announced this week, we aren’t able to absorb all the pressure given the reality of narrow retail margins,” McMillon explained. The retail giant reported over $165 billion in first-quarter revenue but suggested profits might fall depending on trade policies.
What Products Will Cost More?
According to Walmart CFO John David Rainey, price changes will likely take effect by late May, with larger increases coming in June. Products facing potential price hikes include:
- Groceries (bananas, avocados, coffee)
- Children’s items (car seats, toys)
- Electronics
- Home goods
- School supplies
A $350 car seat made in China could soon cost an additional $100 – a 29% increase – according to Rainey.
Walmart Responds: “We’ll Keep Prices Low As Possible”
Walmart responded to Trump’s criticism with a measured statement: “We have always worked to keep our prices as low as possible and we won’t stop. We’ll keep prices as low as we can for as long as we can given the reality of small retail margins.”
Growing List of Companies Warning About Tariff Impact
Walmart joins a growing list of major companies warning about tariff-related price increases, including:
- Microsoft (Xbox consoles)
- Mattel (Barbie dolls)
- Ford (vehicles)
- Nintendo (gaming products)
- Apple (iPhones)
What This Means for Shoppers
The public dispute between Trump and Walmart highlights the economic pressure facing everyday Americans. With consumer sentiment already falling 2.7% between April and May according to University of Michigan data, these tariff-related price increases could particularly impact lower and middle-income families – Walmart’s core customer base.
As the 90-day trade negotiation period with China progresses, consumers are caught in the middle of a high-stakes economic showdown between the White House, major retailers, and global trade partners.
