US proposes 25% tariff on most imports from Brazil

The United States may impose an additional 25% tariff on most goods imported from Brazil. The proposal was announced by the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) following the completion of the preliminary phase of an investigation into Brazil’s trade practices.

The investigation was launched in July 2025 under Section 301 of the US Trade Act. This mechanism allows Washington to respond to foreign government actions that are considered unjustifiable, discriminatory, or restrictive to US commerce.

In its preliminary findings, USTR stated that several Brazilian policies and practices negatively affect American businesses. These include regulations related to digital trade and electronic payment services, preferential tariff regimes, intellectual property protection, ethanol market access, anti-corruption enforcement, and efforts to combat illegal deforestation.

The report also noted that Brazil granted preferential tariff treatment to hundreds of products from India and Mexico, which, according to USTR, created unequal competitive conditions. In addition, the agency highlighted shortcomings in Brazil’s enforcement of laws aimed at preventing illegal deforestation despite the existence of a legal framework.

The proposed tariffs would not apply to certain categories of goods, including selected raw materials, products considered critical to the US economy, and items that cannot be produced in sufficient quantities domestically or sourced elsewhere. USTR will accept public comments on the proposal until July 1, while a public hearing is scheduled for July 6.

Tags: Brazil, USA, duties