Is the U.S going to face toilet paper shortages due to Donald Trump's tariffs? Here's what the world's largest supplier of pulp is saying

Anyone who survived the panic buying of toilet paper and subsequent empty shelves at the beginning of the 2020 pandemic recalls the chaos. Now, a new alert from the world's biggest supplier of pulp hints that the United States might be on the verge of running short again on toilet papers, this time because of US tariffs, not a virus, as per a report.

Brazil’s Pulp Giant Cautions of Toilet Paper Shortage

Suzano SA, a Brazilian firm and the world's leading exporter of pulp, which is the raw material that goes into making toilet paper, has revealed that new US tariffs imported by US president Donald Trump are already affecting the supply chain, according to Bloomberg.

During an interview with Bloomberg, CEO João Alberto de Abreu shared that in just April, Suzano's pulp exports to the United States dropped by 20%, as per the report. The company also mentioned that it would add the extra costs of these export duties to the US consumers, according to Bloomberg.


The Trump administration placed at least a 10% tariff on Brazilian imports, while certain materials, such as Brazilian steel, are being taxed even higher at 25%, as per the Associated Press.

Though shelves are currently well-stocked, Suzano's chief executive officer warns that the mix of reduced shipments and increasing costs may eventually trickle down to consumers. That could mean higher prices, or even shortages, of toilet paper soon.

A Familiar Warning

Bloomberg reminded readers in its May 8 feature story that, "It wasn’t that long ago that the pandemic snarled shipments of toilet paper the world over."

FAQs

What’s causing the potential toilet paper shortage?
New US tariffs on Brazilian imports are reducing pulp shipments and increasing costs.

Should I start stocking up on toilet paper again?
Not yet, but it’s better to stay informed in case supply chain disruptions worsen.