Lula Calls New U.S. Tariffs a Strategic Miscalculation

Washington has greenlit levies ranging from 12.5% to 37.5% on a broad spectrum of Brazilian imports, including textiles, footwear, and food products. This move follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision last year to strike down a previous 50% tariff. Despite Brazil presenting extensive technical documentation and engaging in multiple rounds of high-level diplomatic discussions, the administration proceeded with the trade restrictions.

Data from the Global Trade Alert indicates that Brazil and Turkey now trail only China in the frequency of U.S. trade penalties. The economic friction persists even as the U.S. maintains a $428 billion trade surplus with Brazil accumulated over the past 15 years. With Brazilian exports to the U.S. falling to their lowest levels since 1997, Lula reiterated his administration’s commitment to self-determination while maintaining a door open for constructive, evidence-based dialogue.