The administration of US President Donald Trump has proposed new 25 percent tariffs on imports from Brazil, accusing the country of engaging in unfair trade practices.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the proposed tariffs are linked to concerns over digital trade rules, weak intellectual property protections, environmental issues such as illegal deforestation, and what Washington describes as barriers to US businesses.
The tariffs are being pursued under Section 301 of the US Trade Act, which allows the US government to impose trade penalties against countries accused of unfair economic practices.
According to the proposal, several major Brazilian exports including coffee, beef, energy products, aircraft parts, and some metals may be exempt from the tariffs to reduce the impact on US consumers and industries.
The move escalates trade tensions between Washington and Brasília, despite the United States maintaining a trade surplus with Brazil in recent years.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized the proposal and suggested the tariffs are politically motivated. He accused allies of former President Jair Bolsonaro of encouraging pressure from the United States against Brazil.
The proposal follows earlier disputes between the two countries involving environmental policies, trade regulations, digital payment systems such as Pix, and political disagreements surrounding Bolsonaro.
US officials said there will be a public consultation period before the tariffs are finalized, with hearings expected in July.