Brazil initiates reciprocity process against U.S. tariffs

Brazil has officially initiated a reciprocity process in response to tariffs imposed by the United States government on Brazilian products. The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Itamaraty) sent notifications to the U.S. Departments of State and Commerce, as well as the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR).

The move follows a proposal by the USTR in June to apply rates under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defended the decision to begin the reciprocity process but emphasized a desire for dialogue, stating he does not seek a “fight” with the United States.

This development is part of a broader global trend of trade tensions. Since early 2025, the U.S. has applied various tariffs against numerous international partners. Other nations have responded with their own measures, including China, which imposed a 34% tariff on U.S. imports, and the European Union, which prepared retaliatory measures following U.S. tariffs applied in July 2025.