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Barron Trump’s Yerba Mate Business Sparks Cultural & Political Firestorm

At just 20 years old, Barron Trump is stepping into the business world with a bold new venture—Sollos, a yerba mate company selling tropical-flavored drinks in sleek cans. But the launch has ignited fierce backlash, raising questions about cultural appropriation, profit, and hypocrisy in a politically charged climate.

A Controversial Blend

Yerba mate, a traditional South American drink with deep Indigenous roots, is now being marketed as a trendy beverage with flavors like coconut and pineapple. Critics argue that while the Trump family promotes anti-immigration policies, Barron’s business is capitalizing on a cultural staple tied to Latino heritage.

The backlash was swift. Social media erupted with accusations of hypocrisy—a family known for restrictive immigration stances profiting from a Latin American tradition. Some mocked the name Sollos (derived from the Spanish word for sun), calling it an insult to the very culture they oppose. Others emphasized that yerba mate holds historical significance for Indigenous communities, far beyond a commercial drink.

A Strategic Launch

Sollos debuted in May, backed by $1 million in funding, with a headquarters just miles from Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach. The company, co-founded with two of Trump’s high school friends, boasts a 4,500-square-foot workspace—a far cry from a small startup.

Yet reactions remain divided. Supporters praise Trump’s entrepreneurial drive, arguing that age shouldn’t limit ambition. Detractors, however, see the business as deeply problematic, with one bluntly stating they’d "pass" on buying a product linked to MAGA supporters.

A Bigger Debate

Beyond the drink itself, Sollos has reignited discussions about who profits from culture and who is excluded from it. As immigration debates rage on in comment sections, the controversy shows no signs of fading—leaving many to wonder: Can a business like this bridge divides, or is it just another contradiction?

One thing is certain—Sollos isn’t just selling a beverage. It’s stirring up tough conversations about identity, profit, and privilege in modern business.