Brazil condemned the U.S. increase of tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 25%, citing it as unjustified. The tariffs could adversely affect $3.2 billion worth of Brazilian exports to the U.S. Officials stressed the strong economic ties and trade surplus that exist between the two nations and indicated plans to respond to mitigate negative impacts.

On March 13, 2025, Brazil’s government criticized the U.S. decision to increase tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 25%, labeling it as “unjustified and mistaken”. The joint statement from Brazil’s Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Development, Industry, and Foreign Trade highlighted concerns that this decision would severely affect Brazilian exports to the U.S., which were valued at approximately $3.2 billion in 2024.

Officials emphasized the unjust nature of the tariffs given the established “historic cooperation and economic integration” between Brazil and the U.S. They noted Brazil’s status as the third-largest importer of U.S. steelmaking coal and its position as the largest exporter of semifinished steel to the U.S.

Furthermore, the trade dynamics between the two countries show that the U.S. maintained a significant trade surplus with Brazil, amounting to around $7 billion in goods in 2024. In light of these factors, Brazilian officials revealed plans to consider various trade responses over the upcoming weeks to mitigate the adverse effects of the U.S. tariffs and safeguard national interests.

Brazil has strongly opposed the recent U.S. tariff hike on steel and aluminum, asserting it is unjustified and likely to harm trade relations. The Brazilian government has highlighted the historical economic ties and significant trade surplus enjoyed by the U.S. from this partnership. Moving forward, Brazil aims to explore various responses to protect its national interests.

Original Source: www.uniindia.com