Internet's highest-paid creator MrBeast says Trump tariffs could push chocolate brand Feastables out of US

"Ironically because of all the new tariffs it is now way cheaper to make our chocolate bars we sell globally NOT in America," the YouTuber, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, wrote recently on X.

Feastables products are designed in his hometown of Greenville, North Carolina and manufactured in both the U.S. and Peru, according to the company’s website.

MrBeast said in a recent interview that the company had expanded sourcing from Peru to West Africa, where cocoa is more abundant and competitively priced. Côte d'Ivoire, the world’s largest cocoa exporter, is one example affected by tariffs, having been hit with a 21% levy.

MrBeast warned that such measures could prompt companies like his to shift production entirely overseas to reduce costs. He noted that Feastables already pays a premium for ethically sourced cocoa, including a living wage for farmers, making the added cost from tariffs especially burdensome.

MrBeast holds a giant figure of his Feastables chocolate. Photo from X

Calling the increase "pretty brutal," he wrote: "We'll figure it out. I feel for small businesses though."

"Could really be a nail in the coffin for them."

Trump backed down on his global tariffs, which were set to take effect Wednesday, announcing a 90-day pause on the higher rates. A flat 10% tariff on imports from all countries, which took effect last week, remains in place.

Several companies have said they plan to raise prices to offset increased costs. MrBeast did not comment on whether Feastables prices will change.

MrBeast is the world’s most-followed YouTuber, with over 384 million subscribers as of April 12.

Forbes estimated the 26-year-old earned US$85 million last year, ranking him No. 1 on its 2024 list of top digital creators.

Most of his income comes from Feastables, which generated around US$250 million in revenue and over US$20 million in profit last year, according to documents shared with potential investors.

His media ventures, including YouTube channels and a Prime Video reality show, posted similar revenue but nearly US$80 million in losses, Fortune reported.