Brazil's President Lula Responds to Trump's 50 Percent Tariffs with Threat of Retaliation

Thursday, 10 July 2025, 14:18

50 percent tariffs have provoked Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to issue strong warnings of retaliation. Following President Trump's announcement of these tariffs targeting Brazil, Lula argues against false claims concerning the trade deficit, asserting a $410 billion surplus in goods and services over 15 years. He emphasizes Brazil's commitment to sovereignty and its ability to respond to unilateral trade measures.

Thehill — Brazil's President Lula Responds to Trump's 50 Percent Tariffs with Threat of Retaliation

Response to Trump's 50 Percent Tariffs

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva responded assertively after President Trump announced plans for 50 percent tariffs on Brazilian goods. Lula stated that Brazil is ready to retaliate in accordance with its Economic Reciprocity Law, designed to address unilateral trade measures.

Clarifying Trade Relations

Lula has challenged Trump’s claims about a U.S. trade deficit. He noted statistics demonstrating a trade surplus of $410 billion over the past 15 years. He emphasized that Brazil values its sovereignty and will defend its interests vigorously.

Economic Reciprocity Law at Work

Signed shortly after Trump's tariff announcement, the Economic Reciprocity Law enables Brazil to implement countermeasures to protect its economy. This legal framework could allow for various trade restrictions and the suspension of obligations under existing agreements, showcasing Brazil’s commitment to responding to coercive measures.

Lula's Defense of Judicial Independence

In his statement, Lula strongly defended Brazil's judiciary against external pressures, stating, “the judicial proceedings against those responsible for planning the coup d'état fall exclusively under the jurisdiction of Brazil’s Judicial Branch.” This firm stance underscores Brazil's independence in navigating the ongoing tensions with the U.S.

Conclusion: A Call for Respect in International Relations

Lula's counterstatement includes a plea for principles of respect and sovereignty in international engagements, emphasizing that Brazil will not tolerate external threats to its democratic processes.

This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.