Thu, 10 Jul 2025

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 Trump threatens Brazil with 50% tariff and demands Bolsonaro's trial end

Trump accused Brazil of "attacks" on US tech companies and conducting a "witch hunt" against its former president Jair Bolsonaro.

* US President Donald Trump plans to impose a 50% tax on goods made in Brazil, citing "attacks" on US tech companies and a "witch hunt" against former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro.
* Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva responded by saying that Brazil will reciprocate with increased tariffs if the plan is implemented, and warned against interference in the country's judicial system.
* Trump also announced that a 50% tariff on copper imports will come into effect on August 1, citing national security concerns.
* The US has enjoyed a trade surplus with Brazil last year, selling more goods to the country than it purchased from it.
* Trump accused the Brazilian government of "insidious attacks" on free elections and free speech rights of Americans, including censorship of social media platforms.
* He also praised Bolsonaro as someone he "respected greatly", calling his trial an "international disgrace".
* The US has launched a so-called 301 investigation into Brazil's digital trade practices, which could lead to further tariffs.
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