President Trump announced a 50 percent tariff on all Brazilian goods effective August 1, escalating tensions over Brazil's prosecution of former president Jair Bolsonaro. The tariff, aimed at Latin America's largest economy, could significantly impact Brazil, which sold $40 billion in goods to the U.S. in 2024. Trump described Bolsonaro's treatment as an "international disgrace" and labeled the trial a "Witch Hunt." Brazilian President Lula threatened retaliation, emphasizing Brazil's sovereignty and economic interests. Bolsonaro faces serious charges related to subverting democracy and was recently questioned by Brazil's Supreme Court.
"The way that Brazil has treated former President Bolsonaro, a Highly Respected Leader throughout the World during his Term, including by the United States, is an international disgrace," Trump wrote.
"Any measure that unilaterally elevates tariffs will be responded to by the Brazilian law of economic reciprocity," Lula said Wednesday evening.
The tariff, effective Aug. 1, opens a new theater in Trump's ongoing trade war, bringing Latin America's largest economy into the fray.
Bolsonaro is facing decades in prison on allegations that he led a plot to subvert Brazilian democracy and assassinate rivals.
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