Trump Orders Shutdown of Duty-Free Stores to Enforce Tariff Restrictions

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced that all duty-free stores in the United States should be shut down, arguing they allow foreign products to bypass tariffs.

Speaking from Mar-a-Lago, Trump said that duty-free shops at airports and ports operate as “giant loopholes” in U.S. trade policy. He insisted that closing them would ensure tariffed countries cannot move goods without paying taxes.

“This is about fairness. No more sneaking perfume, liquor, or watches past the American system,” Trump said.

Economists noted that duty-free sales account for only a small share of U.S. trade. Still, Trump argued the principle mattered, linking the move to his “America First” trade agenda.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent estimates the closures will generate $2.8 billion annually in additional tariff revenue. “Every bottle of perfume and pack of cigarettes will now pay proper duties,” Bessent explained.