On July 30, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) declaring a national emergency and implementing an additional 40% tariff on imports from Brazil, bringing the total tariff amount to 50%.
According to the White House, this action responds to:“Recent policies, practices, and actions by the Government of Brazil that constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.”
Section 301 Investigation Initiated
In a parallel action, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced on July 15, 2025, the launch of a Section 301 investigation into the Government of Brazil. The investigation will assess whether Brazilian acts, policies, or practices are unreasonable or discriminatory and burden or restrict U.S. commerce. Areas under investigation include:- Digital trade and electronic payment services
- Preferential or discriminatory tariff treatment
- Interference in anti-corruption enforcement
- Intellectual property rights protection
- Restrictions on U.S. ethanol market access
- Environmental issues, including illegal deforestation
Basis for National Emergency Declaration
The Executive Order cites multiple concerns:- Coercive censorship of U.S. companies and citizens
- Harassment and intimidation by Brazilian judicial authorities
- Human rights abuses linked to politically motivated prosecutions
- Threats to American free speech and economic sovereignty
Questions or Support
Our team is ready to help you mitigate risk and navigate these new developments. Contact us at: clientsupportus@buckland.com
Source:
White House Fact Sheet – President Trump Addresses Threats from the Government of Brazil