In a new tariff letter posted on social media, Trump accused Brazil of attacking US technology companies and conducting a “witch hunt” against former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was quick to respond to Trump's statement. Lula stated that any duty increase on Brazilian products would not go unanswered and emphasized that they would not allow outside interference in the judicial system of his country. "No one is above the law," Lula voiced.
Trump had previously engaged in verbal sparring with Lula over Bolsonaro's trial. Reiterating his support for Bolsonaro, Trump described the trial of the former Brazilian leader as an "international disgrace".
50% Duty on Copper Imports
Trump announced that the 50% duty on copper imports, which he announced earlier this week, will take effect as of August 1. He stated that the decision was taken on "national security" grounds.
During the week, Trump sent similar letters to several countries, including Japan, South Korea and Sri Lanka, announcing new tariffs on imports from these countries. These moves brought Trump's plans, which he announced in April but suspended due to negative reactions in the markets, back to the agenda. However, the statements against Brazil were much harsher and more targeted than those against other countries.
Currently, the US has a trade surplus with Brazil, meaning that the value of the products it sells to Brazil exceeds the value of the products it buys from Brazil. Trump defended the 50% duty as "necessary to correct the serious injustices of the current regime."
Digital Trade Practices Under Scrutiny
Trump also stated that he would order a Section 301 investigation into Brazil's digital trade practices. This step indicates that a legal process previously used by the US for tariffs will be activated.
Trump accused the Brazilian government of "attacking free elections and Americans' freedom of expression". Trump's social media company, Trump Media, is also facing legal proceedings in Brazil over decisions taken against social media platforms. In recent months, Brazil temporarily banned the Elon Musk-owned platform X (formerly Twitter) on the grounds of fighting disinformation.
Brazil's Supreme Court has also ruled that social media companies can be held responsible for content.
Bolsonaro and Trump: Similar Fates
In his letter, Trump spoke favorably of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and condemned his prosecution. Trump and Bolsonaro had a close relationship during their terms in office, with both leaders refusing to publicly acknowledge their electoral defeats.
Bolsonaro is on trial in an investigation into an attempted coup in 2023, when his supporters stormed government buildings in the capital after Lula's election victory. Bolsonaro, who denies the charges, was in the United States during the events.
Trump, for his part, continued his support for Bolsonaro, comparing the Brazilian leader's legal proceedings to his own, stating, "This is nothing more than an attack on a political opponent." Bolsonaro thanked Trump for his support.
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