Former President Donald Trump delivered a sharp rebuke to Walmart over the weekend, after the retail giant warned that consumer prices could rise due to the economic impact of U.S. tariffs.
The dispute began when Walmart CEO Douglas McMillon said during a recent earnings call that the company would be challenged to fully absorb tariff costs, despite its efforts to keep prices low.
Walmart imports goods from several countries affected by U.S. trade policy, including China, Canada, Mexico, Vietnam, and India, which face tariffs of at least 10%.
“Given the magnitude of the tariffs, even at the reduced levels announced this week, we aren’t able to absorb all the pressure,” McMillon said on May 15, referring to the company’s narrow retail margins.
Trump fired back on Truth Social Saturday, accusing Walmart of using tariffs as a scapegoat.
“Walmart should STOP trying to blame Tariffs as the reason for raising prices throughout the chain,” Trump wrote.
“Walmart made BILLIONS OF DOLLARS last year, far more than expected. 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!!!” he added.
