Brasilia - Saba:
Brazil threatened on Wednesday to retaliate after US President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on imports from the South American country, citing his support for former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who is accused of attempting a coup.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva wrote on Twitter: "Any unilateral tariff increase will be dealt with under the Brazilian Reciprocal Economic Treatment Act."
On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on all Brazilian products entering the US market, effective August 1, 2025, in an escalation of a series of punitive measures against Brazil.
Trump explained that this decision came in response to what he described as "malicious attacks" on free elections and freedom of expression, specifically referring to the Brazilian authorities' treatment of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
In an official letter dated July 9, 2025, addressed by Trump to current Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Trump accused the Brazilian Supreme Court of censoring American social media platforms through "secret and illegal orders."
In his letter, Trump stated, "Because of Brazil's vicious attacks on free elections and the fundamental freedom of expression of American citizens, we will impose a 50% tariff on any and all Brazilian products shipped to the United States."
This decision is expected to significantly strain trade and diplomatic relations between Washington and Brasilia, especially given the ongoing debate over freedoms and freedom of expression in Brazil
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