Brazil and U.S. Tariffs – A Special Briefing

Despite maintaining a trade surplus with Brazil, the U.S. has announced additional tariffs on all Brazilian products. These tariffs apply across all sectors, including sector-specific duties on steel, automobiles, and auto parts.

In parallel, on July 15, 2025, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) initiated a Section 301 investigation into a broad range of alleged unfair trade practices by Brazil. The probe focuses on Brazilian policies concerning digital trade, electronic payments, intellectual property enforcement, anti-corruption standards, ethanol tariffs, and illegal deforestation. The investigation may result in further trade penalties.

In response, the Brazilian government is seeking to resolve the dispute through diplomatic channels but has warned that, if the tariffs move forward, it is prepared to invoke its Law of Economic Reciprocity and implement proportional countermeasures.

Speakers

Dr. Vinicius Aquini, LL.M.

Robert J. Leo, Esq., Meeks, Sheppard, Leo & Pillsbury LLP

Renato Faria, Martins Villac Advogados

Marcus Giraldes, Iochpe-Maxion S.A.

Helen Naves, Esq., HNaves Advogados