Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has firmly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent decision to impose a 50% tariff on Brazilian exports, calling the move an act of “unacceptable blackmail” and a violation of Brazil’s sovereignty. The tariffs, set to take effect on August 1, will impact major Brazilian exports including crude oil, beef, coffee, and orange juice.
Speaking in response, Lula declared that he would not accept orders from foreign powers, stating, “No gringo is going to give orders to this president.” He emphasized that Brazil had submitted a negotiating proposal as early as May but received no official response from the United States.
The new tariffs come amid rising political tensions between the two countries, with Trump accusing Brazil of unfair trade practices and expressing support for former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. Lula has interpreted Trump’s actions as politically motivated interference aimed at undermining Brazil’s democratic institutions and supporting Bolsonaro allies. The U.S. measures also follow lobbying by Bolsonaro’s supporters, who have pushed for sanctions on Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.
Lula has signaled Brazil’s readiness to retaliate economically. The Brazilian government is considering regulatory and tax actions against American tech firms operating in the country. These companies, Lula argues, have contributed to the spread of fake news and societal unrest. Discussions are also underway with industry leaders to formulate additional countermeasures if the tariffs are implemented.
Petrobras, Brazil’s state-run oil company, noted that the U.S. accounts for only a small portion of its oil exports. The company is now preparing to shift shipments to alternative markets in Asia and the Pacific. This diversification could reduce the economic blow of the U.S. tariffs while deepening Brazil’s trade ties with China and other BRICS nations.
The tariff standoff has sparked strong nationalist sentiment within Brazil. Lula’s assertive stance has been widely praised domestically, with analysts noting a boost in his approval ratings. Meanwhile, political observers warn that the escalating trade and diplomatic conflict could strain U.S.–Latin America relations further.
As the August 1 implementation date approaches, Lula has reaffirmed Brazil’s openness to negotiations, but warned that any resolution must respect Brazil’s autonomy and interests. Without a diplomatic breakthrough, both countries appear to be heading toward a new phase of trade confrontation.