Brazil’s Attorney General Responds to U.S. Tariffs and Defends Judicial Independence

On July 9, the President of the United States implemented a unilateral 50 percent tariff on all Brazilian exports—an unprecedented move in the modern history of bilateral relations between the two nations. The stated reasons, including accusations of unfair trade practices by Brazil, alleged suppression of free speech, and the prosecution of a former president, call for a measured and principled response defending Brazil’s sovereignty, legal framework, and institutional integrity.

The relationship between Brazil and the United States is longstanding and multifaceted. Marking 200 years of diplomatic ties just last year, this partnership has endured numerous global conflicts, economic upheavals, and political changes, grounded in shared values such as democracy, adherence to the rule of law, and a commitment to peaceful international cooperation. These values form the bedrock of both societies and require ongoing respect and vigilance, especially during periods of disagreement.

Claims that the United States faces an unfair and imbalanced trade relationship with Brazil are contradicted by official data. In 2024 alone, the U.S. enjoyed a trade surplus of $7.4 billion with Brazil in goods. When services are included, this surplus grows to $28.6 billion, positioning Brazil as the third-largest contributor to the U.S. global trade surplus. Over the past 15 years, the cumulative surplus in goods and services has reached $410 billion, reflecting a consistent pattern.

The sweeping 50 percent tariff imposed by the U.S. is not only excessive but also breaches principles of fair trade. Such measures destabilize legal certainty for businesses and investors, disrupt international supply chains, and undermine the cooperative spirit that has historically characterized bilateral relations. Brazil responds to these challenges grounded in respect for the law, international standards, and its constitutional duty to protect national interests—including through reciprocal actions if necessary.

Regarding allegations linking these tariffs to ongoing judicial proceedings against former President Jair Bolsonaro, who faces accusations related to an attempted coup, it is vital to stress Brazil’s firm rejection of any external interference in its judicial affairs. These legal proceedings, concerning events from January 8, 2023, fall solely under the jurisdiction of Brazil’s independent judiciary. No foreign government holds the authority to influence or question Brazil’s justice system. Upholding legal integrity and institutional autonomy remains a fundamental, non-negotiable principle of Brazilian democracy.

Accusations concerning censorship of U.S. technology companies and suppression of free speech in Brazil are similarly without merit. Freedom of expression is protected under Brazilian law but does not extend to actions that incite violence, propagate fraud, or threaten the rule of law—restrictions recognized broadly in democratic societies. Recently, Brazil’s Supreme Court affirmed that digital platforms may be held accountable for third-party content that violates legal standards, including material related to child exploitation, hate speech, or calls for anti-democratic conduct. All companies operating in Brazil, foreign or domestic, must abide by these laws, just as Brazilian companies comply with U.S. regulations when operating there.