President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports, citing its legal cases against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.
“Due in part to Brazil’s insidious attacks on Free Elections, and the fundamental Free Speech Rights of Americans… we will charge Brazil a Tariff of 50% on any and all Brazilian products sent into the United States,” Trump said in a letter to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
“The way that Brazil has treated former President Bolsonaro, a Highly Respected Leader throughout the World during his Term, including by the United States, in an international disgrace. This Trial should not be taking place,” he added.
Trump previously issued a warning to Brazil that he was closely watching the legal proceedings against Bolsonaro, who has already been barred from running for office until 2030.
Bolsonaro lost reelection in 2022, leading to a Jan. 6-like riot against Lula returning to power. Bolsonaro was out of the country at the time but has faced charges in connection with the incident.
