Brazil seeks to assess measures against U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, including actions through the WTO. The U.S. tariffs, effective immediately, are expected to significantly impact $3.2 billion in Brazilian exports. Brazil’s government regards these tariffs as unjustified and aims to engage with the U.S. for resolution.
The Brazilian government has announced its intention to evaluate potential responses to the United States’ recent tariff increases on steel and aluminum imports. This includes considering measures at the World Trade Organization to mitigate the adverse effects of U.S. policies while safeguarding Brazil’s legitimate national interests.
Starting Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump implemented higher tariffs, a strategy aimed at restructuring global trade favorably for the United States. Brazil’s Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Development, Industry, and Foreign Trade issued a joint statement highlighting the significant impact these tariffs would have on Brazilian exports of steel and aluminum, which were valued at approximately $3.2 billion in 2024.
The Brazilian government criticized the increased tariffs as an “unjustified and mistaken” gesture, emphasizing the longstanding economic cooperation between the two nations. Brazil ranks as the third-largest importer of U.S. steelmaking coal and holds the title of largest exporter of semi-finished steel to the United States.
Despite the strain, Brazil reported a trade surplus with the U.S., which was roughly $7 billion in goods in 2024. In light of these developments, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has directed his economic team to engage in dialogue with the Trump administration, emphasizing a historical precedent of negotiating under more challenging circumstances. Finance Minister Fernando Haddad relayed this message, stating that President Lula urged calmness and reassurance during these discussions.
In summary, Brazil’s government expresses its intent to carefully consider various countermeasures in response to U.S. tariff increases on steel and aluminum. The administration regards these tariffs as detrimental to their exports and an unjust action against a historically cooperative economic relationship. President Lula’s government aims to pursue dialogue to navigate these trade challenges effectively.
Original Source: news.cgtn.com
