9 Fast-Food Chains That May Get More Expensive Because of Tariffs

9 Fast-Food Chains That May Get More Expensive Because of Tariffs

The fast-food industry may be the next to feel the heat from President Trump’s recently enacted “Liberation Day” tariffs, which took effect on April 2. With import taxes now hitting several key trading partners, U.S. restaurants that rely on foreign-sourced ingredients are bracing for rising costs—and that likely means higher menu prices for customers.

As costs climb, customers could soon face pricier burgers, fries, and more.

Here are nine fast-food chains expected to feel the squeeze: Erik Mclean / Unsplash

1. Subway

Subway’s fresh produce, including bell peppers, comes from multiple countries now impacted by tariffs: Canada (25%), Mexico (25%), and Guatemala (10%). These import hikes could affect sandwich prices across the board. Szymon / Unsplash

2. McDonald’s

The global giant sources some of its beef from Australia, now facing a 10% tariff. McDonald’s emphasizes its sustainable sourcing policies, stating: “To support forest-positive beef sourcing, we have a Deforestation-Free Beef Procurement Policy (DFBPP), which includes detailed requirements for beef sourced from Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina and Australia.” Road Ahead / Unsplash

3. Wendy's

While Wendy’s primarily sources its beef domestically, it does use palm oil in some products—an ingredient largely imported from Indonesia, now slapped with a 32% tariff. The company notes: “Globally, Wendy’s is not a large user of palm oil, but we recognize the importance of the issue and are committed to using responsible and sustainable sources for the palm oil we do use.” Jacob McGowin / Unsplash

4. Burger King

Another major buyer of Australian beef, Burger King may face similar challenges to McDonald’s due to the 10% tariff. Sky News Australia reports that the U.S. imported nearly 400,000 tonnes of Australian beef in 2024. Disruptions to this supply chain could be significant. New Zealand, another key exporter, may also be affected. Jacob Townsend / Unsplash

5. Tim Hortons

The Canadian coffee-and-doughnut chain sources coffee from places like Colombia and Guatemala, the latter now under a 10% tariff. Tim Hortons pays homage to its suppliers: “The process of cultivating coffee in the rugged terrain of our producing countries is often an artisanal process. This is truly a labour of love and coffee grown with care.” Erik Mclean / Unsplash

6. Chipotle

Chipotle sources its beef from a mix of countries, including the U.S., Canada (subject to a 25% tariff), Australia (10%), and Uruguay (10%). According to the company: “In 2022, none of the beef we sourced was conventionally raised, and 100% met our animal welfare standards. All of our beef comes from animals raised without added hormones or antibiotics.” Rick Obst / Wikimedia

7. Starbucks

Starbucks sources a significant portion of its coffee beans from Brazil and Colombia, both now subject to a 10% tariff. These increased import costs could impact the company's expenses. Starbucks has stated that it does not plan to raise consumer prices this year despite the added costs. Athar Khan / Unsplash

8. Dunkin’ Donuts

Brazil, a major supplier of coffee beans for Dunkin’, is now under a 10% tariff. This could spell higher prices for your daily caffeine fix. Dunkin’ highlights its commitment to ethical sourcing: “In addition to being committed to quality, we are also committed to sourcing coffee responsibly and incorporating certified products in our coffee portfolio. For example, our espresso beverages sold in the U.S. and internationally have used 100% certified coffee beans since 2004.” Samuele Macauda / Unsplash

9. Carl's Jr.

Carl’s Jr. has historically sourced some of its beef from Australia, including its 2014 “All-Natural Burger” made with grass-fed, hormone- and antibiotic-free Australian beef. As of April 3, 2025, a new 10% U.S. tariff on Australian beef imports could drive up costs, potentially affecting the chain’s pricing strategy. TaurusEmerald / Wikimedia

Tariffs Take a Bite: How Fast-Food Prices May Rise Amid Import Cost Hikes

The recent implementation of tariffs on various imported goods is poised to impact several fast-food chains that rely on international suppliers for key ingredients. While some companies may absorb these increased costs, others might pass them on to consumers through higher menu prices. Customers should be aware of potential price adjustments as the industry adapts to these new economic challenges. RDNE Stock project / Pexels