Trump Hits Brazil with 50% Tariff, Defends Bolsonaro Amid Legal Troubles

Donald Trump has announced a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports, set to begin August 1, 2025, while also strongly criticizing the legal challenges faced by former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. In a letter to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Trump expressed his respect for Bolsonaro. Trump cited Brazil’s trade practices and perceived actions against free speech as justification for the tariffs. Further, he warned of potential increases if Brazil retaliates with its own tariffs. Additional tariffs were also announced on goods from Sri Lanka, Algeria, Iraq, Libya, the Philippines, Moldova, and Brunei. Trump also stated that there would be no extensions on the payment of tariffs, which would begin on August 1, 2025.