US to impose new 25 percent tariffs on some Brazilian imports

The United States trade representative announced new tariff measures targeting Brazilian exports as part of the White House's revised trade strategy. The 25 percent duties will apply to a broad range of products including sugar, apparel, paper, and steel, taking effect on July 22. The tariffs were proposed under Section 301 of US trade law, which permits investigations into alleged unfair trade practices and subsequent retaliatory duties. Several product categories received exemptions from the new levies, notably beef and coffee, both of which have experienced significant price increases for American consumers during recent trade disputes.

The investigation underlying these tariffs concluded that Brazil engaged in unfair trade practices affecting digital commerce and forestry regulations. Despite the United States maintaining a substantial trade surplus with Brazil—$14.4 billion in 2025 compared to $7.7 billion in 2024—the administration proceeded with the tariff announcement. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has characterized the allegations as politically motivated, linking them to his government's prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro on coup-related charges. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio responded by asserting that Brazil had not negotiated in good faith and that the tariffs represented a consequence of failed diplomatic efforts.

The announcement follows extensive negotiations between the two nations, with more than 30 official meetings conducted over the preceding year. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated that despite these discussions, the identified issues remained unresolved, though the administration expressed willingness to continue negotiations. These tariffs mark the first measures imposed under Section 301 since the US Supreme Court invalidated Trump's broader tariff authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act earlier in the year.