Trump Considers 50% Tariff on Brazilian Goods Citing National Security Threat Under IEEPA

On July 13, White House Economic Advisor Kevin Hassett addressed the possibility of implementing a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports, highlighting President Trump’s dissatisfaction with Brazil’s recent trade conduct. Hassett emphasized that the administration is evaluating Brazil’s policies through the lens of national security concerns. Under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), the President holds the authority to enforce tariffs if deemed necessary to protect U.S. economic interests. This move underscores the growing intersection of trade policy and national security in global economic strategy, signaling potential shifts in U.S.-Brazil trade relations. Market participants should monitor these developments closely as they may impact commodity flows and bilateral trade dynamics.