The U.S. announced a 25% [1] additional tariff on certain Brazilian imports, specifically targeting steel and aluminium.
The move threatens to disrupt trade relations between the two largest economies in the Americas and could trigger a cycle of retaliatory measures. The U.S. government invoked Section 301 to implement the tariffs, arguing that Brazil lacks effective mechanisms to prevent the entry of certain goods [4].
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said that Brazil will react commercially [2]. The tension follows a bilateral meeting between officials of the two countries that took place on Saturday, June 13, 2026 [3].
While some reports suggest a proposed 12.5% [2] surcharge in addition to the primary tariffs, the 25% [1] figure remains the primary point of contention. The impact of these measures is expected to be concentrated in industrial sectors, specifically metals, rather than agricultural commodities.
Welber Barral said the 25% tariff should not affect crucial sectors of the national balance, such as the exports of meat, coffee, and minerals [3]. This suggests that while the industrial sector faces significant headwinds, Brazil's primary agricultural exports may remain shielded from the immediate fallout.
Domestic political figures have also weighed in on the dispute. Flávio Bolsonaro said he requested participation in the public hearing to discuss the possible application of the 25% tariff on Brazilian products [1].
The U.S. Department of Commerce continues to use Section 301 as a mechanism to address perceived trade imbalances. Brazil's planned commercial response remains unspecified, though it typically involves reciprocal tariffs on U.S. goods to pressure the administration into negotiations [2].
“"Vamos reagir comercialmente."”
The use of Section 301 indicates a shift toward more aggressive trade enforcement by the US to address systemic gaps in Brazilian import controls. By targeting steel and aluminium, the US is focusing on industrial competition, which allows Brazil's critical agricultural exports to remain stable. However, the threat of a commercial response from President Lula suggests a potential escalation that could widen the trade conflict beyond the metals sector.
