Trump Imposes 50% Tariffs on Brazilian Imports, Escalating US-Brazil Trade Tensions

President Donald Trump has escalated trade tensions with Brazil by signing an executive order imposing a 50% tariff on most Brazilian imports, citing Brazil's prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro as an "economic emergency" and accusing the Brazilian judiciary of politically motivated persecution. The tariffs, significantly higher than the previous 10% rate, come despite the United States running a trade surplus with Brazil, underscoring the political nature of the move. Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva condemned the tariffs as unjustified and vowed to defend Brazilian sovereignty, warning of possible economic retaliation while emphasizing willingness for trade negotiations. The U.S. also imposed sanctions on Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, whom it accuses of undermining free speech and targeting Bolsonaro unfairly, prompting strong condemnation from Brazil's government. Despite the tariff hike, some major Brazilian exports like civilian aircraft and orange juice received exemptions, somewhat softening the impact. Brazilian industry groups warn the tariffs could cost over 100,000 jobs and slow economic growth, while Brazil continues to stand firm against what it calls U.S. interference in its judicial affairs.