Brazil Responds to Trump’s Tariffs, Seeks Industry Support and U.S. Dialogue

Brazil’s Vice President Geraldo Alckmin stated Monday that the country is still awaiting a response from Washington regarding a trade proposal made two months ago, following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of a steep tariff hike on Brazilian imports.

Last week, Trump raised tariffs on Brazilian goods from 10% to 50%, citing “reciprocal trade measures” and demanding Brazil halt the ongoing trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro over alleged coup attempts. The tariff hike, set to begin in August, poses a serious challenge to Latin America’s largest economy.

Speaking at the presidential palace in Brasília, Alckmin confirmed that President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has formed a task force to meet with business leaders starting Tuesday. The goal is to coordinate a national response and engage directly with U.S. companies affected by the tariff escalation.

While Brazil has not formally requested a delay or reduction in the new tariffs, Alckmin emphasized the government’s focus on mobilizing impacted industries to work with American counterparts in hopes of reversing the measure.

Meanwhile, Lula is set to sign a decree establishing formal criteria for Brazil’s response to harmful foreign trade actions. Chief of Staff Rui Costa noted the decree, based on a reciprocity law passed by Congress in April, will be published in Brazil’s official gazette on Tuesday.

The government’s response aims to protect domestic industries and reinforce trade balance, while opening channels for diplomatic and commercial dialogue with Washington. As tensions rise, Brazilian officials are prioritizing coordinated industry efforts and legal preparedness to counter the economic impact of Trump’s aggressive tariff stance.