Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro (PL-RJ) said Sunday that President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) wants the U.S. to impose tariffs on Brazilian products [1].

The allegation suggests a high-level political strategy where the Brazilian government would benefit from a trade conflict to sway domestic voters. If realized, such tariffs could significantly disrupt trade between the two largest economies in the Americas.

Bolsonaro made the comments during a hearing at the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) in Washington [1], [2]. He said that the PT government is the only party interested in the application of a 25% surcharge [1] on Brazilian goods [1].

According to Bolsonaro, the president is pursuing this "tarifão" as a calculated move to obtain political gain during the elections [2], [3]. He said that Lula wants the tariffs to be implemented to bolster his own political standing.

President Lula has denied these claims. In a statement made earlier this month, Lula said there is no reason for tariffs to be implemented on Brazilian products [2].

The dispute comes as a deadline approaches for a final decision. Donald Trump is expected to decide whether to apply the tariffs by July 15, 2026 [4].

While Bolsonaro argues that the president welcomes the trade barrier, other reports indicate a different dynamic. Lula said Bolsonaro asked the U.S. to delay the imposition of these tariffs until after the elections [4].

“"The PT government is the only interested party in the application of the 25% surcharge against Brazilian products."”

This clash highlights the deep polarization within Brazil's leadership as they navigate trade relations with the U.S. By framing the potential 25% tariff as a tool for political theater, Bolsonaro is attempting to paint the current administration as indifferent to economic stability in exchange for electoral advantages. The July 15 deadline creates a volatile window where trade policy becomes a primary weapon in Brazil's domestic political struggle.