White House Criticizes Amazon Over Tariff Transparency Initiative
The White House has sharply criticized Amazon for its reported plan to display the impact of U.S. tariffs on product prices, labeling the move a “hostile and political act.” This development follows reports that Amazon considered showing tariff-related price increases on goods, particularly on its discount platform, Amazon Haul.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt questioned the timing of Amazon’s decision, asking why the company didn’t take similar steps during previous inflation surges. She also accused Amazon of aligning with Chinese interests, referencing a 2021 report that claimed the company partnered with China’s propaganda arm to sell certain publications on its U.S. site.
Amazon has denied plans to display tariff costs on its main website, stating that the consideration was limited to its low-cost Amazon Haul site. The company emphasized its commitment to keeping prices as low as possible for customers.
The controversy arises amid broader economic concerns, with U.S. job openings falling to their lowest level since 2020 and the trade deficit widening significantly. Several global companies, including Amazon, have highlighted the uncertainty caused by tariffs, with some reassessing participation in major sales events like Prime Day due to rising costs from Chinese goods.
Amazon’s stock experienced a decline of over 2% in pre-market trading following the controversy.
This incident marks a cooling in the relationship between Amazon and the Trump administration, despite previous efforts by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos to improve ties, including attending Trump’s inauguration and donating to his inauguration fund.
As Amazon prepares to report its quarterly results, analysts and investors are keen to hear how the company is navigating the impact of tariffs and the administration’s changes to the de minimis exemption, which affects the duty-free status of imported goods under $800.
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White House Criticizes Amazon Over Tariff Transparency Initiative