Trump signs order to raise Brazil tariffs to 50 per cent
The White House said the decision was aimed at addressing "recent policies, practices, and actions by the Government of Brazil that constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy and economy of the US.”
WASHINGTON - United States (US) President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed a new executive order imposing a 50 per cent tariff on Brazilian exports, while granting exemptions for selected products, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported.
The White House said the decision was aimed at addressing "recent policies, practices, and actions by the Government of Brazil that constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy and economy of the US.”
The move comes amid the ongoing trial of former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro, a close political ally of Trump, who faces charges of attempting to orchestrate a coup.
Trump’s order described the legal proceedings as political persecution, asserting that Bolsonaro had been "unjustly charged” with several crimes.
Despite the sweeping tariff hike, the order provides exemptions for civil aircraft and parts -- likely benefiting Brazilian aerospace firm Embraer, as well as wood pulp, precious metals, energy products, fertilisers and orange juice.
The tariffs are scheduled to take effect on Aug 6, following a seven-day implementation window.
Trump had previously threatened to impose the 50 per cent tariffs unless President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva halted Bolsonaro’s trial. - BERNAMA-ANADOLU
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