Brazil trade surplus reaches US$ 2.52 billion in early August

Brazil's trade balance recorded a surplus of US$ 2.522 billion in the first week of August, driven by strong export growth. According to the Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services (MDIC), exports reached US$ 9.302 billion, a 32.2% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Key growth sectors included extractive industry (up 53.3%), manufacturing (up 27%), and agribusiness (up 22.4%).

For the first half of 2026, the mining industry accounted for 48% of Brazil's trade balance, contributing US$ 20.3 billion. Iron ore alone represented 53.6% of mineral exports. However, the Brazilian Institute of Mining (Ibram) has expressed concern regarding the potential implementation of a selective tax, which could impact the international competitiveness of the sector.

In July, the monthly trade surplus reached approximately US$ 7 billion. While China remains Brazil's primary trading partner, accounting for nearly one-third of exports, there has been a noted decline in sales to the United States. Vice President Geraldo Alckmin highlighted that exports to the European Union grew by nearly 4% over two months, despite concerns regarding sanitary barriers and protectionist measures.