Donald Trump Tariff Delay 2026: New Year Pause on Furniture and Pasta Taxes
President Donald Trump has delayed tariffs on furniture and slashed duties on Italian pasta for 2026. This strategic pause comes as cost-of-living concerns dominate the midterm election cycle.
Is it a policy shift or a survival tactic? As the election year kicks off, President Donald Trump has hit the pause button on billions in potential tariffs to ease the rising cost of living.
Suspension of 50% Furniture and Cabinet Tariffs
On New Year's Eve, Trump signed an executive order delaying planned tariffs on upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities for one year. According to Reuters, the pause affects a scheduled 50% duty on cabinets and a 30% levy on furniture. However, the existing 25% tariff implemented in September 2025 remains in effect, maintaining some pressure on international exporters.
The administration's conciliatory tone extended to Europe as well. Italy's Foreign Ministry announced on Thursday that the US agreed to slash proposed duties on pasta. Threatened with a massive 92% tax, companies like La Molisana and Garofalo saw their rates drop to 2.26% and 13.98% respectively. The ministry stated this recalculation shows US recognition of their constructive willingness to cooperate.
2026 Midterm Elections and Economic Pressure
The move comes as the United States prepares for the November 2026 midterm elections. Cost-of-living concerns are peaking; a Politico poll found that 30% of voters blame tariffs for high prices. While Trump has dismissed affordability complaints as a 'hoax,' the sudden delay suggests the administration is taking the 32% of respondents who hold him 'fully responsible' for the economy seriously.
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