Trump Imposes 50% Tariff on Brazilian Imports, Criticizes Bolsonaro's Trial

Trump's Tariff Announcement

President Donald Trump has declared a 50% tariff on imports from Brazil, effective August 1. He described the trial of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro as a 'witch hunt' and asserted that it should not proceed. In a letter addressed to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Trump expressed his admiration for Bolsonaro, stating that he was respected by many global leaders.

In his correspondence, Trump remarked, 'I knew and dealt with former President Jair Bolsonaro, and respected him greatly, as did most other Leaders of Countries. 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. This Trial should not be taking place. It is a Witch Hunt that should end IMMEDIATELY!'

Trump further criticized Brazil for its alleged attacks on free elections and free speech rights of Americans, citing recent actions by the Brazilian Supreme Court that imposed censorship orders on U.S. social media platforms. He announced that starting August 1, 2025, a 50% tariff would be levied on all Brazilian products entering the U.S., with additional penalties for goods attempting to bypass this tariff.

The U.S. President accused Brazil of engaging in unfair trade practices, claiming that the tariffs currently imposed are insufficient for a fair trade environment. He stated, 'In addition, we have had years to discuss our Trading Relationship with Brazil, and have concluded that we must move away from the longstanding, and very unfair trade relationship engendered by Brazil's Tariff, and Non-Tariff, Policies and Trade Barriers. Our relationship has been, unfortunately, far from Reciprocal.'

Trump emphasized that the proposed 50% tariff is still less than what is necessary for equitable trade. He also mentioned that there would be no tariff if Brazilian companies choose to manufacture products in the U.S., promising expedited approvals for such initiatives.

In his letter, Trump warned that he would consider increasing the tariff if Brazil raised its tariffs on American imports. He also directed the U.S. Trade Representative to initiate an investigation into Brazil's trade practices.

On the same day, Trump announced new tariffs on imports from seven other countries, including Sri Lanka and Iraq, set to take effect on August 1. The White House released letters detailing the tariffs, which range from 20% to 30% depending on the country.

Trump reiterated that these tariffs would be enforced starting August 1, 2025, with no extensions allowed. He communicated this through a post on his social media platform, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the new tariff regulations.

Earlier, Trump had sent letters to 14 nations, informing them of reciprocal tariffs that would also commence on August 1.