Trump Calls Jeff Bezos Over Amazon’s Tariff Display Plan – What Really Happened?

In an unexpected move, former President Donald Trump reportedly phoned Amazon founder Jeff Bezos to voice his displeasure over rumors that the e-commerce giant planned to display tariff costs alongside product prices. The call, confirmed by White House officials to CNN, occurred on April 29, 2025, just after Punchbowl News reported Amazon’s potential strategy.

Trump, a longtime advocate of aggressive trade policies, took issue with the idea of highlighting tariffs—particularly on budget-friendly Chinese imports. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt doubled down, labeling the rumored plan a “hostile and political act” during a press briefing.

But was Amazon actually moving forward with the plan? According to Tim Doyle, an Amazon spokesperson, the answer is no. Doyle clarified that the company had only explored adding tariff details in a section called “Haul,” which showcases ultra-low-cost Chinese goods. He stressed the idea was never approved and would not be implemented, sharing the official statement on Amazon’s news site.

Why This Matters

Trump’s tariffs on Chinese imports—some as high as 145%—have already sent shockwaves through retail. Companies like Shein and Temu have raised prices, while some Amazon sellers are delaying Prime Day promotions or stretching U.S. inventory to avoid added costs.

The ripple effects extend beyond corporate boardrooms. Consumers are facing emptier shelves and steeper prices, with supply chain disruptions becoming more frequent. Earlier reporting by The Verge noted the White House’s sharp reaction, framing Amazon’s pricing labels as a “hostile” gesture—a sign of escalating tensions between the administration and Big Tech.

Key Players

Donald Trump: The former president, known for his hardline trade stance, took direct action by calling Bezos.
Jeff Bezos: Amazon’s founder found himself fielding Trump’s complaints.
Karoline Leavitt: The White House Press Secretary framed Amazon’s rumored plan as politically motivated.
Tim Doyle: Amazon’s spokesperson shut down speculation about the tariff display.

The Bigger Picture

This clash is part of a broader narrative about Trump’s trade policies and their far-reaching consequences. The Verge has tracked how tariffs reshape industries, from retail to manufacturing, often leaving consumers to foot the bill.

At its heart, the incident underscores the friction between government trade agendas and corporate transparency—with everyday shoppers caught in the crossfire. Will retailers adapt, or will tensions keep climbing? The answer remains uncertain.

For deeper insights into Trump’s tariff policies, follow The Verge’s ongoing coverage.