Pub's Witty Rebuke to Trump's Beef Tariffs

Australian pub owners are serving up a pointed protest against newly imposed US tariffs on Australian goods with a clever menu offering: a discounted steak paired with “Elon Mustard.” Clayton Ries and Brett Davis, co-owners of the Australian Hotel Brewery and Guildford Hotel in Western Sydney, are offering a 10% discount on steak – a major Australian export to the United States – as a direct response to the 10% tariffs levied by the Trump administration.

The playful jab extends to the condiment, a nod to Elon Musk, a prominent supporter of former President Trump. Ries and Davis explained the promotion stemmed from a conversation over beers, fueled by frustration over the financial burden the tariffs place on both Australian farmers and consumers already grappling with a cost of living crisis.

“The farmers are doing it tough,” Ries stated, referencing recent floods in Queensland and the added pressure of the tariffs. “We want to really support them and give back to our customers.” They’ve even jokingly declared that should Mr. Trump himself visit, he’ll be charged double.

Australia exports approximately $2.52 billion worth of beef to the US annually, making it the country’s largest beef market. This retaliatory tariff comes despite a long-standing ban on US fresh beef imports into Australia, implemented in 2003 following an outbreak of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (mad cow disease).

Former President Trump has publicly voiced his frustration with this trade imbalance, stating that Australia “won’t take any of our beef” while announcing the tariffs. Industry groups anticipate these increased costs will ultimately be passed on to American consumers, potentially raising the price of hamburgers and steaks.

Beyond the “Trump Steak with Elon Mustard,” the pubs are also offering discounts on beer and house wine throughout the month. This creative protest highlights a growing trend of businesses using humor and direct action to address complex geopolitical issues. While the financial impact of a single pub’s promotion is minimal, it serves as a symbolic gesture of solidarity with Australian farmers and a pointed critique of protectionist trade policies. It’s a clever way to turn a trade dispute into a talking point – and a discounted meal – for patrons.