Brazil Rejects U.S. Tariff Increases on Steel and Aluminum as Unjustified

Brazil criticizes the U.S. for a 25% tariff increase on steel and aluminum, labeling it unjustified. The tariff threatens Brazilian exports worth $3.2 billion in 2024. Brazilian officials plan to consider trade responses to protect national interests amid strong historical economic ties between the two countries.

On March 13, 2025, Brazil’s government expressed strong disapproval of the United States’ recent decision to implement a 25 percent tariff increase on steel and aluminum imports. Officials deemed this action as “unjustified and mistaken,” highlighting the negative repercussions it may have on Brazilian exports, which were valued at approximately $3.2 billion in 2024.

The Brazilian Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Development, Industry, and Foreign Trade emphasized the historical cooperation and economic ties between the United States and Brazil. It was noted that Brazil ranks as the third-largest importer of U.S. steelmaking coal and is the largest exporter of semifinished steel to the United States.

In 2024, the United States enjoyed a significant trade surplus with Brazil, amounting to about $7 billion solely in goods. In response to the tariff increases, Brazilian officials announced their intention to explore all viable trade options over the next few weeks to mitigate the adverse effects on their economy and safeguard national interests.

In conclusion, Brazil’s government has condemned the U.S. tariff hikes on steel and aluminum as unjustified, emphasizing the detrimental impact on their export economy and the established trade relationship. Brazil plans to seek countermeasures to shield its national interests while recalling the historical economic ties between the two nations.

Original Source: www.uniindia.com