Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has hinted at possible retaliatory measures against US President Donald Trump’s newly imposed steel tariffs, marking a significant escalation in trade tensions between the two nations.
Speaking in a radio interview on Friday, Lula criticized the move, stating it would severely impact Brazil’s steel exports to the US.
He suggested that his government file a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) or impose reciprocal tariffs on American products.
The US recently announced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, triggering widespread reactions across the global trade community.
As one of the largest suppliers of steel to the US, Brazil finds itself at the center of the dispute.
“If they impose tariffs on Brazilian steel, we will respond commercially—either by taking the case to the WTO or by implementing our tariffs on US imports,” Lula stated.
Trade between the US and Brazil is substantial, with total trade volume exceeding $80 billion last year.
Despite periodic disputes, the US maintained a $253 million trade surplus with Brazil.
Lula has emphasized the need to protect Brazilian industry while maintaining strong bilateral ties.
He has also warned that aggressive trade actions from the US will be met with firm responses. “If action is taken against Brazil, there will be reciprocity,” he affirmed.
US tariffs and the ethanol trade dispute
The latest tariffs come amid longstanding US concerns over Brazil’s trade policies, particularly in the ethanol sector.
The US has accused Brazil of imposing unfair tariffs on ethanol imports, adding another layer of complexity to an already tense trade relationship.
Historically, the US has championed free-market policies, but Lula argues that the current administration is deviating from those principles.
Brazil now faces a critical decision: whether to challenge the US at the WTO or introduce countermeasures through its own tariff policies.
Lula has made it clear that while he seeks constructive engagement with the US, Brazil will not hesitate to defend its economic interests.
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