Brazil has initiated consultations on potential retaliatory measures against the United States following the imposition of 25 percent tariffs on a range of Brazilian exports.
The new US tariffs are “unjustified and arbitrary,” and Brazil will “continue to defend its position in all appropriate forums,” the Brazilian government said in a statement on Thursday.
This step marks the beginning of a reciprocity process that could eventually see Brazil introduce retaliatory measures, including tariffs, on imports from the US. The early stage involves further diplomatic consultations with US trade authorities.
In July, the US imposed a 25 percent surcharge on some Brazilian imports, including sugar, clothing, paper, and steel, alleging unfair trade practices. The US also hit Brazil – and a host of other countries – with an additional 12.5 percent tariff linked to allegations of lax enforcement of forced labor bans.
While no decision has been made yet, Brazil’s retaliatory options include imposing taxes or fees, eliminating exemptions or reducing import tariffs, or even restricting imports of American goods or services.
A source told Reuters that further measures could go beyond tariffs, for example by suspending pharmaceutical and agricultural patents.
The US runs a trade surplus with Brazil, meaning it sells the country goods and services worth more than it imports from it. In 2026 so far, the US has exported $26.5 billion worth to Brazil and imported $17 billion, according to the US Census Bureau.
Under President Donald Trump, the US has repeatedly sought to impose sweeping tariffs on imports, lamenting the US’s trade deficit with countries around the world. In April 2025, the White House announced the introduction of a minimum 10 percent tariff on nearly every country, dubbed the “Liberation Day” tariffs.
Those were struck down by US courts this year, but the latest round of tariffs is widely seen as a replacement for the failed Liberation Day tariffs, designed to survive challenges in the US court system.
Source: www.aljazeera.com