Brazil claims US tariffs aimed at influencing 2026 presidential election

Brazil's foreign ministry says the United States' decision to add up to 25% tariffs on certain Brazilian products is politically motivated and tied to the upcoming Brazilian presidential election in October 2026. The tariffs stem from a Section 301 investigation by the USTR that alleges unfair practices such as attacks on Brazil’s Pix payment system. The ministry stated the measure “has its origin in an attempt of external interference in Brazilian justice.”

Brazil is negotiating with Washington, seeking a deal before the July 15 deadline, and argues the tariffs are unjustified given Brazil’s average 2.7% tariff on US imports. Vice‑president Geraldo Alckmin criticized senator Flávio Bolsonaro’s independent talks, while the United States, under Donald Trump’s December 2025 National‑Security Strategy, seeks greater influence in Latin America ahead of the election.