US escalates trade war with Brazil, imposing 25% tariffs on key products

The United States has escalated its trade dispute with Brazil, announcing a 25% tariff on a range of Brazilian products. This move follows an investigation by the Office of the US Trade Representative, citing practices that violate trade laws established in 1974.

Brazil's government swiftly condemned the tariffs as "illegal" and pledged to implement similar measures in accordance with the principle of reciprocity, as permitted by a law passed last year. A US official indicated the tariffs would take effect on July 22, allowing time for customs systems to be updated.

“

The Brazilian government did not negotiate in good faith with the United States.

The US investigation, initiated in 2025, focused on various issues, including anti-corruption efforts, intellectual property protection, and the consequences of illegal deforestation. The new tariffs also take into account Brazilian court rulings concerning the digital economy, which Washington considers "unfair trade barriers," particularly those compelling social media platforms to remove specific political content or face penalties.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the Brazilian government "did not negotiate in good faith with the United States." He added that President Lula "put his personal interests and ego ahead of reaching an agreement that would benefit the Brazilian people, and these tariffs are the price for that." Washington generally accuses Brazil of applying preferential tariffs on Mexican and Indian products at the expense of American goods, causing damage inconsistent with international commitments.

“

He put his personal interests and ego ahead of reaching an agreement that would benefit the Brazilian people, and these tariffs are the price for that.