US launches sweeping investigation, Bolsonaro connection questioned
Donald Trump, President of the US (photo: Getty Images)
The Trump administration has officially opened a trade investigation into Brazil, accusing the country of unfair trade practices and the political persecution of Jair Bolsonaro, a close ally of former President Donald Trump. The move could pave the way for steep new tariffs as early as August 1, according to The New York Times.
On Tuesday, the White House initiated the investigation, alleging that Brazil is discriminating against US tech companies and targeting Bolsonaro through politically motivated prosecutions.
The investigation aims to determine whether the policies and actions of the Brazilian government have been unfair or detrimental to American businesses, officials from the US Trade Representative’s office said. The probe covers a range of issues, including tariffs on U.S. goods, digital trade regulations, ethanol market access conditions, and anti-corruption measures that the US views as interference.
Primarily, the Trump administration accused Brazil of unfair practices that it believes harm American companies and workers.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated that the investigation includes Brazil’s actions against American social media companies, as well as other policies that may obstruct trade.
This investigation could pave the way for additional tariffs — notably, President Trump has already threatened a 50% tariff on all imports from Brazil.
Beyond economic grievances, the White House has also criticized the Brazilian government for persecuting Jair Bolsonaro, Trump’s political ally, calling the situation an international disgrace.
Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has warned China, India, and Brazil about secondary sanctions. He urged leaders of these countries to call Russian President Vladimir Putin and press him for a ceasefire if they want to avoid economic penalties.
