Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has responded sharply to Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 50% reciprocal tariff on Brazilian goods. Speaking on Thursday, Lula made it clear that Brazil would not bow to pressure from foreign powers.
"No gringo is going to give orders to this president," Lula declared during a public speech in Goiás, using the common Brazilian slang “gringo” to refer to foreigners, particularly Americans.
The US President Donald Trump announced the new tariff policy last week, citing unfair trade practices by Brazil and expressing strong opposition to how the country is treating former President Jair Bolsonaro.
In a letter addressed to Lula, Trump defended Bolsonaro, calling him a "Highly Respected Leader" and condemned the legal proceedings against him.
“The way that Brazil has treated former President Bolsonaro... is an international disgrace. This Trial should not be taking place. It is a Witch Hunt that should end IMMEDIATELY!” Trump wrote.
He also accused Brazil of undermining democratic values by using secret censorship orders to silence voices and suppress American free speech.
Trump stated that beginning April 1, a 50% tax would apply to all Brazilian exports to the US. This also includes goods rerouted through third countries.
The move has drawn immediate rejection from the Brazilian government, with Lula and top ministers dismissing Trump’s claims and stressing that Brazil’s sovereignty must be respected.
Despite the tough rhetoric, Brazilian officials have said they remain open to dialogue with the United States.
During his speech, Lula also criticized American technology companies, saying they spread violence and fake news under the shield of free speech. He reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to regulating and taxing these firms.
Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira told CNN Brasil that Lula is willing to meet with Trump, but said no such meeting had been scheduled yet. "If the circumstances are given, they will speak," he said.
In the meantime, Brazil has started talks with affected industries and companies to understand the economic impact. Officials are also working on possible retaliatory steps if the negotiations with the US do not lead to a resolution.
