We had become accustomed to good economic news for Spain, such as the recent publication in The Economist, which speaks very highly of us, highlighting our country among the most developed economies. It points to key factors behind our success, including low energy prices (thanks to the growth of renewables) and immigration, which accounts for 40% of new jobs. Now, as we are jolted by the tariff earthquake, we are also benefiting from the broadened diversity of our trade relationships with the rest of the world. On the whole, experts from the Chamber of Commerce and the Bank of Spain agree that the impact of the tariffs imposed by Trump would amount to just 0.2% of GDP. The agri-food sector, which represents 17% of our exports to the United States, would be the most affected, particularly olive oil, wine, and plant-based products. However, when experts point out that the worst thing about tariffs is the uncertainty they generate, it is worth remembering that these are not new. During Trump’s first administration we already faced tariffs: 35% on black olives (which are still in place) and 25% on olive oil and wine (2017–2021), which were later removed and may now return. Nothing new, except the thing that keeps us on edge: the unpredictability of a man who, in April 2020, went so far as to suggest injecting bleach to cure COVID, while he himself, upon contracting the virus, was treated with the most advanced, scientifically backed, and expensive medical therapies.
As a precaution, let’s strengthen our Mediterranean diet and the consumption of local and European foods
Amid all the commotion, it’s clear that the tariffs are not directly aimed at promoting unhealthy food. That would be a different kind of war. However, there is reason to be concerned about indirect and collateral damage: rising product prices, trade disruptions, and reciprocal economic retaliation that, in the end, create more room for the consumption of ultra-processed foods, much cheaper and less nutritious. If this trend continues, the ones most harmed would, in fact, be the American people themselves. The question is whether that concerns their president at all. Particularly during summer in Mallorca, let’s opt for hydrating and nutritious meals, always keeping fresh water in sight, which are essential for our health and wellbeing. They refresh us, quench our thirst, and help restore the balance between body, mind, and surroundings.
In summer, fruits like watermelon, strawberries, plums, pears, melon, loquats, grapes, apples, peaches, apricots, and others are ideal natural coolants, as they contain around 90% water and are packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre, and other beneficial bioactive compounds. Salads featuring legumes and vegetables (lettuce, asparagus, artichokes, courgettes, spinach, cabbages, aubergines…) are equally refreshing, especially Mallorcan trempó: a local dish made with mildly acidic tomato, Mallorcan green pepper, and sweet onion, all dressed (trempat) with extra virgin olive oil, salt, and a hint of garlic; so simple, so natural. These dishes, often paired with traditional protein sources (fish, lean or white meats, seafood, legumes), help keep us cool, nourished, and energised. A true local delight is tumbet, prepared with aubergine, courgette, peppers, and potato, lightly fried in minimal oil, then layered and topped with a tomato, onion, and garlic sofrito, baked for about 30 minutes. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold, and topped with egg, pork loin, or fish. A touch of sobrassada de Mallorca elevates it to a hearty, flavourful dish (tumbet mallorquí), perfect for sharing with joy and good company. It is something that should remain untouched by the unhealthy tariff trends of Donald Trump and his billionaire mates.
On the contrary, while some may choose the logic of conflict, we can respond with calm and culinary intelligence: our Mallorcan trempó and tumbet, with a pinch of sobrassada de Mallorca (though I must admit I’m not entirely neutral on that point). Here in Mallorca, we face this so-called trade war by promoting health and the simple pleasure of eating well, standing firm against tariffs and junk food alike.
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