Trump called Jeff Bezos over reports Amazon would show tariffs next to prices. Learn what sparked the call, how Amazon responded, and what it means for U.S. consumers
Digital Worldwide News
30th April 2025
Andrew Juna,
President Donald Trump called Amazon founder Jeff Bezos on Tuesday morning to protest reports that the company was planning to show the added cost of U.S. tariffs next to product prices. The call came just hours after reports surfaced that Amazon’s spinoff site, Haul, might display how much of a product’s price came from tariffs—potentially making Trump's trade policies more visible to consumers.
What triggered the call from Trump to Bezos?
According to two senior White House officials, Trump was “pissed” after learning that Amazon was reportedly considering highlighting tariff-related price increases. He called Bezos directly to express his dissatisfaction. After the conversation, Trump described Bezos as “very nice” and said, “He solved the problem very quickly. Good guy.”
Was Amazon planning to show tariffs on its main site?
An Amazon spokesperson told CNN that the pricing display “was never a consideration for the main Amazon site” and that “nothing has been implemented on any Amazon properties.” However, the company had discussed the possibility of showing import costs on Haul, a platform that sells low-cost items under $20. That plan, however, was never approved or launched.
How did the White House react to Amazon's alleged plan?
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called the potential move a “hostile and political act.” She said she discussed it with President Trump earlier that day. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick also weighed in, calling the idea “nonsense” and arguing that a 10% tariff wouldn’t meaningfully affect prices—except on items the U.S. doesn't produce, like mangoes.
What’s the political context around this tariff display issue?
The Biden-era tariffs, continued under Trump’s second term, include a 145% rate on goods from China and a 10% minimum tariff on imports from all other countries. Trump’s administration is aggressively pushing for American manufacturing and wants to prevent companies from shifting blame to the government for rising costs. Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer supported transparency, urging companies to “show your customers how much tariffs are hurting their pocketbook.”
Are other retailers showing tariff-related price changes?
Yes. Online retailers like Shein and Temu have already implemented import charges that appear at checkout. These companies source most products from China and have adjusted pricing strategies due to higher costs from tariffs.
What is the broader relationship between Trump and Bezos?
Despite past tensions, Bezos has warmed relations with Trump in recent years—dining at the White House, congratulating him on his reelection, and even producing a documentary about First Lady Melania Trump. Trump recently praised Bezos in an interview, calling him “100 percent” and “great,” even though Bezos’ net worth has dropped $30 billion due to market changes and tariff impacts.