Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva expressed on Wednesday that his administration is prepared to respond after President Trump revealed intentions to impose a 50% tariff on imports from Brazil.
In a statement shared on the platform X, Lula challenged what he described as “inaccurate” assertions regarding the US trade deficit with Brazil. He noted, “Statistics from the US government itself indicate a $400 billion surplus in goods and services trade with Brazil over the last 15 years.”
He added, “Thus, any unilateral increase in tariffs will trigger actions according to Brazil’s Economic Interrelations Act.” Lula emphasized that sovereignty, respect, and steadfast defense of Brazilian interests are central to how Brazil engages globally.
The Economic Reciprocity Act was enacted on April 14, shortly following Trump’s announcement of extensive tariffs affecting multiple countries. This law was largely a response to the tariffs introduced by Trump.
The legislation authorizes governmental measures that could limit imports or services, aiming to counteract any concessions related to trade, investment, or intellectual property rights that were previously agreed upon.
Following Trump’s announcement of the new tariffs, Lula’s statement underlined Brazil’s stance. Trump alleged the tariffs were warranted due to a supposed attack on Brazil’s electoral integrity and a threat to American free speech.
In his communication to Lula, Trump mentioned Brazil’s existing trade barriers and tariffs. He criticized the treatment of former President Bolsonaro, calling it an “international dishonor” and describing the legal proceedings against him as a “witch hunt.”
Responding later in the day, Lula defended Brazil’s sovereignty, stating, “Brazil is a sovereign state with an independent legal system and will not tolerate any external leadership attempts.”
He further mentioned that the judicial processes regarding coup-related offenses strictly belong to Brazilian jurisdiction, asserting that they shouldn’t be influenced by external threats that could compromise the autonomy of national institutions.
Lula also noted that if digital platforms wish to operate in Brazil, they must eliminate “hate content” and anti-democratic rhetoric. He insisted that Brazilian society does not accept hateful expressions, racism, child exploitation, or fraudulent activities.
He concluded, “In Brazil, freedom of expression should not be used to justify inciting violence. We expect all companies, whether domestic or international, to adhere to Brazilian laws when conducting business in our country.”
