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Brazil becomes central to U.S.-China geopolitical and trade rivalry
Brazil has become a central focal point in the geopolitical competition between the United States and China. As the country approaches presidential elections, both powers are vying for influence to secure access to essential raw materials. China remains Brazil's dominant trading partner, accounting for approximately 29% of its trade in the first eight months of 2026, compared to 11.5% from the United States. China holds significant interests in agriculture, infrastructure, telecommunications, and hydrocarbons, with Brazilian oil exports to China rising by over 60% in the first half of the year.
The United States is focusing its efforts on securing critical minerals, such as rare earths used in defense and electric vehicle technologies. A notable move includes USA Rare Earth's $2.8 billion acquisition of the Brazilian mining firm Serra Verde.
In South America, the United States is also strengthening bilateral ties with Argentina. This includes a joint declaration with Argentina and Mexico to eradicate forced labor in global supply chains. Additionally, the U.S. is working to define infrastructure and energy projects in Argentina, with the EXIM Bank framework aiming to mobilize up to $7 billion for strategic initiatives through 2027.
Entities
Argentina · Brazil · China · China · Donald Trump · Flávio Bolsonaro · Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva · USA Rare Earth · United States · United States
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The US EXIM Bank framework aims to mobilize up to $7 billion for strategic initiatives in Argentina through 2027. elintransigente.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The United States, Argentina, and Mexico signed a joint declaration to eradicate forced labor in global supply chains. noticiasargentinas.com
- [● 6 SOURCES] Brazilian oil exports to China increased by more than 60% in the first half of the year due to Middle East tensions. www.diariodemallorca.es · www.informacion.es · www.farodevigo.es · www.elcorreoweb.es · www.lne.es · +1 more
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The United States accounted for 11.5% of Brazil's trade in the same period. mediosrioja.com.ar
- [○ 1 SOURCE] China accounted for approximately 29% of Brazil's trade in the first eight months of 2026. mediosrioja.com.ar
- [● 6 SOURCES] USA Rare Earth purchased the Brazilian mining company Serra Verde in April for $2.8 billion. www.diariodemallorca.es · www.informacion.es · www.farodevigo.es · www.elcorreoweb.es · www.lne.es · +1 more