In response to the recent tariff news, Axios Philadelphia reporter, Isaac Avilucea, spoke with Lauren Swartz, President and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, about how global tariffs could impact the cost of a cup of coffee for Americans.

In its April 9th article, Axios Philadelphia reported how local coffee roasters are “bracing for more pain behind every pour” as rising import costs threaten their business models—from beans to supplies, equipment, and parts.

The bottom line? Swartz tells Axios “the city’s coffee makers and drinkers alike have more to think about now. ‘What is your corner coffee shop to do?’ she says. ‘American spending habits, and comfort with doing something like buying a cup of coffee every day, are probably something we’re all talking about at our kitchen tables.'” 

Prior to World Affairs, Lauren Swartz served as Philadelphia’s Deputy Commerce Director for International Business & Global Strategy. While working for the City, Lauren and her team worked to attract over twenty international companies annually, encouraging them to open offices in Philadelphia and creating hundreds of new jobs and international investment.

In her current role, Swartz helps to connect Philadelphia to the world. From powerful speaker events and international exchanges to youth education, to professional development and curated travel programs, World Affairs is where continents, cultures, and ideas connect.