Brazil and Bolsonaro campaign push back against US tariff plan

The U.S. government has proposed a 25% tariff on a range of Brazilian exports following a Section 301 investigation, sparking opposition from both the Brazilian government and a key opposition figure. The USTR investigation, which focuses on digital trade, banking, corruption, intellectual property, ethanol access, and deforestation, has triggered a diplomatic and political response as the July 15 decision deadline approaches. Source: infobae

Government response

Brazil's Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira submitted a 13-page document arguing that the tariff would not combat forced labor or child labor as claimed, and instead called for international cooperation. The Brazilian government also voiced concerns that designating Brazilian crime groups as foreign terrorist organizations could risk U.S. military action on Brazilian soil. Source: larepublicaco

Political opposition

Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, the right-wing presidential candidate, testified before the USTR panel, warning that tariffs help President Lula politically. He noted that Brazil's trade with China reached a record $171 billion, absorbing exports displaced from the U.S. market. Flávio, accompanied by his brother Eduardo, urged the committee not to impose tariffs. Source: diariolibreeSource: infobae

Lula's rebuttal

President Lula called Flávio's plea a "traição" (treason) and argued that asking to delay tariffs until after elections harms Brazil's national interest. Source: infobae