Summary
Brazilian President Lula da Silva has stated that Brazil will impose tariffs on U.S. goods if the United States follows through on its threat to impose a 50% tax on Brazilian imports. This response comes after U.S. President Donald Trump issued the threat, citing Brazil's treatment of former President Jair Bolsonaro as a reason. Lula disputed Trump's claim of a U.S. trade deficit with Brazil, pointing to data showing a U.S. surplus.
Key Facts
- U.S. President Trump threatened a 50% import tax on Brazilian goods starting in August.
- Trump mentioned Brazil's treatment of former President Bolsonaro as the reason for the tariff threat.
- Bolsonaro is on trial for allegedly trying to stage a coup after losing the 2022 election.
- President Lula of Brazil plans to respond with equivalent tariffs on U.S. goods.
- Brazil is the U.S.'s second-largest trade partner after China.
- Lula claims U.S. trade data actually shows a surplus with Brazil, contradicting Trump's deficit claim.
- Trump also accused Brazil of imposing secret censorship orders on U.S. social media.
- Lula defended Brazil's actions, stating they protect against harmful content and uphold democratic freedoms.
