NewKerala.com

Key Points

Brazil has formally protested the US decision to impose 50% tariffs on its exports, calling it a threat to historic economic ties. The move has sparked public outrage, with 72% of Brazilians rejecting Trump's justification for the tariffs. President Lula's approval has risen as many support reciprocal trade measures. Meanwhile, the US has launched an investigation into Brazil's digital commerce practices.

Key Points: Brazil Protests Trump Tariffs as Lula Gains Support

  • Brazil warns tariffs will harm key economic sectors in both nations
  • 72% of Brazilians reject Trump's justification for the tariffs
  • Lula's approval rises as 53% back reciprocal trade measures
  • US launches probe into Brazil's digital commerce practices
2 min read

Brazil expresses 'indignation' over US tariffs

Brazil condemns US 50% tariffs, warns of economic fallout as public backs Lula's stance. Bilateral ties face strain amid trade probe.

"The Brazilian government expresses its indignation at the July 9 announcement – Ministry of Development"

Seoul, July 17

The Brazilian government has formally protested the US decision to impose 50 per cent import tariffs on all Brazilian exports, effective Aug. 1, warning of serious economic consequences and a strain on bilateral relations.

In a letter to US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Brazil conveyed its "indignation" over the move announced by US President Donald Trump on July 9.

The letter was jointly signed by Vice President and Development Minister Geraldo Alckmin and Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, said a statement released Wednesday by Brazil's Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services.

"The Brazilian government expresses its indignation at the July 9 announcement," the letter read, warning that the tariffs would severely impact key sectors in both economies and jeopardize what has historically been a strong economic partnership.

"In over two centuries of bilateral ties, trade has been a cornerstone of cooperation and prosperity between the two largest economies in the Americas," it noted.

The protest comes amid a broader backlash in Brazil. A public opinion poll conducted by consulting firm Quaest between July 10 and 14 showed overwhelming domestic opposition to the US tariffs, reports Xinhua news agency.

The survey, which engaged more than 2,000 respondents across 120 municipalities, found that 72 per cent of Brazilians reject Trump's justification for the tariffs, which cited alleged political persecution of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

Seventy-nine percent of respondents expressed concern that the tariffs would negatively affect their lives or those of their families. Fifty-three per cent of those surveyed supported Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's stance on imposing reciprocal tariffs, while his approval rating rose modestly from 40 to 43 per cent amid the dispute.

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced that Washington has launched an investigation into Brazil's trade practices, focusing on the treatment of digital commerce and electronic payment services, which the United States claims to be discriminatory and harmful to American businesses.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
America always acts like a bully in trade matters. First China, now Brazil. India should take note and diversify our export markets. 72% Brazilians opposing shows how unpopular such moves are!
S
Sarah B
As an expat in India, I see both sides. The US is protecting its interests but 50% tariff is too harsh. Hope both countries can negotiate before August 1st deadline. Trade wars help no one.
A
Arjun K
Brazil is absolutely right to protest! This reminds me of when US suddenly removed GSP benefits for India. We need stronger international trade rules to prevent such unilateral actions.
N
Nikhil C
While I support Brazil's stance, their government should also look inward. Many developing nations including India and Brazil need to reduce dependence on any single market. Make in India policy makes more sense than ever!
K
Kavya N
The timing is suspicious - right before BRICS summit! America doesn't want developing countries to unite. Brazil should respond strongly but wisely. Hope PM Modi takes note for our trade strategy.
M
Michael C
Working in Mumbai's export sector, I see how these trade wars affect global supply chains. Prices of Brazilian goods will rise, impacting Indian importers too. Global economy is too connected for such drastic measures.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50