Barron Trump’s New Business Sparks Debate Over Cultural Profits

At just 20 years old, Barron Trump is diving into entrepreneurship, following in his father’s business-savvy footsteps. Instead of joining the military like some critics might expect, he’s launching a yerba mate drink company called Sollos. The brand markets its products as trendy canned versions of the traditional South American herbal tea. But as soon as the business went public, social media erupted with accusations that the Trump family is profiting from Latin American culture while pushing anti-immigrant policies. Yerba mate isn’t just any drink—it’s a centuries-old tradition tied to Indigenous Guaraní communities in countries like Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay. The plant grows wild in South American forests, and its brewed leaves have been a staple for survival and social rituals. Now, Sollos is selling flavored versions like coconut and pineapple in U. S. stores, aiming to appeal to the laid-back lifestyle of Florida. But critics argue that turning such a culturally significant product into a commercial venture—especially by the son of a president known for harsh immigration stances—feels like exploitation.The company’s name, Sollos, even adds fuel to the fire. It comes from the Spanish word for "sun, " a nod to Florida’s sunny image. But social media users quickly pointed out the irony: if the Trump family truly respects Latin culture, why push policies that target Latin American immigrants? Some supporters defend Barron’s ambition, praising his business skills at a young age. Others, though, are skeptical, wondering if this is just another case of big names capitalizing on traditions they don’t fully appreciate. The debate isn’t just about drinks—it’s about who gets to profit from cultural heritage. Yerba mate has deep roots in Indigenous survival, yet now it’s being repackaged for profit by a company linked to a family with a contentious immigration record. Is this innovation or appropriation? The conversation on Sollos’ page reflects a bigger tension in America: how do we separate business from politics when one family’s brand is so closely tied to controversy?