Trending 
United States President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing a total of 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports, intensifying pressure on the South American nation in response to the ongoing legal proceedings against former president Jair Bolsonaro.
The White House confirmed the decision on Wednesday, revealing that an extra 40% tariff would be added to existing duties, in what Trump called retaliation for a politically motivated campaign against his ideological ally Bolsonaro.
In a strongly worded statement, the US administration accused the Brazilian government of carrying out “serious human rights abuses” through the alleged persecution and legal targeting of Bolsonaro and his supporters. The measures were described as undermining the rule of law in Brazil.
The statement also criticised Brazil’s actions as detrimental to American businesses, free speech rights, foreign policy, and the wider US economy. It specifically called out Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre Moraes, who is overseeing the high-profile case against Bolsonaro.
While the exact date for the new tariffs to take effect wasn’t confirmed, Trump had previously indicated August 1 as the likely start.
The sweeping tariffs could severely impact Brazilian exports of key products such as aircraft, agricultural goods, and crude oil. Despite historic diplomatic ties and a 2024 US trade surplus with Brazil amounting to $284 million, the decision signals a dramatic shift in relations.
Brazil has warned that the case against Bolsonaro will proceed as planned, unless prosecutors independently decide to drop it. The former president is accused of plotting to overturn the results of the last election to remain in power.
With tensions now deeply political, hopes for a last-minute resolution appear slim.
