Walmart To Raise Prices Due to Tariffs—Here’s How To Save Money, According to an Expert

Walmart announced that new U.S. tariffs on imports from China and other countries will force the retailer to raise prices.

“We’re wired to keep prices low, but there’s a limit to what we can bear, or any retailer for that matter,” Chief Financial Officer John David Rainey told The Associated Press.

When Will the Effects of Tariffs Hit Walmart’s Shelves?

Speaking to investors and industry analysts, Walmart leaders said that some items had higher price tags in April, with more hikes continuing in May. They said to expect even more price hikes to appear in June and July.

Rainey pointed out that the prices on everyday items will increase, including groceries. The price of bananas from Costa Rica, for example, rose four cents per pound, and those costs will be passed on to consumers.

Walmart has more than 4,600 stores in the United States, with an additional 10,000 stores in other countries. The retailer acquires merchandise from many countries including Canada, China, India, Mexico, and Vietnam, CNN reports. Those countries now face at least 10 percent in tariffs.

“We will do our best to keep our prices as low as possible. But given the magnitude of the tariffs, even at the reduced levels announced this week, we aren’t able to absorb all the pressure given the reality of narrow retail margins,” Walmart CEO Douglas McMillon said last week.

Not long after Walmart leaders talked about the tariffs and higher prices, President Donald Trump posted online, “Between Walmart and China they should, as is said ‘EAT THE TARIFFS,’ and not charge valued customers ANYTHING. I’ll be watching, and so will your customers!”

How You Can Still Save Money Despite Tariffs

Wherever you shop for groceries and other necessities, there are plenty of things you can do to mitigate those higher prices, says registered dietitian and health coach Melanie Marcus.

Shop with a list and stick to it. “As grocery prices rise, I always recommend that clients shop with a well-thought-out plan. First, I suggest starting by looking at sale proteins and base meals around those,” Marcus says. She urges shoppers to be flexible. “So if your family favorite is meat sauce with pasta, but ground turkey is on sale this week, choose that instead of beef,” she says.

Compare unit pricing. Look at the pricing stickers to compare price per ounce or item to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Buy in bulk, but only things you like. Non-perishable foods like oatmeal, pasta, rice, and canned items are great to buy in bulk when prices are good. But don’t buy things just because they’re on sale. “Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up on a ‘good deal,’ but if it’s not a family favorite or something you’re very familiar with cooking, it will be a waste of money and pantry space,” says Marcus.

Try smart swaps. Fiber-rich plant-based foods like beans, lentils, and chickpeas are an easy way to eat healthier on a budget, Marcus says. “When produce prices increase, I often switch from delicate leafy greens and lettuces to frozen spinach, kale, and collards. They make great additions to omelets or sides sautéed with garlic and olive oil.” She also suggests frozen berries as a swap for fresh when adding them to yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies.

Freeze produce. If produce is on sale, consider buying and freezing it to use later. “Think of it this way, what would you do with excess produce from your summer garden?” says Marcus. Things like green beans and strawberries can be spread out on a sheet pan and frozen and then transferred into a freezer bag for easy storage.