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U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said President Donald Trump has held several constructive discussions with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, signaling renewed momentum toward improving U.S.-Brazil trade relations. Speaking at an Atlantic Council event, Greer emphasized that both countries appear interested in advancing a potential trade deal, though meaningful progress will require concessions from each side. He noted that while such an agreement may not resolve every long-standing issue, Brazil has shown strong willingness to engage.
The comments follow recent steps by the Trump administration to ease tensions, including last month’s removal of steep 40% tariffs on a range of Brazilian food products such as coffee, cocoa, and fruits, while maintaining a 10% base tariff. The higher tariffs had originally been imposed as retaliation for Brazil’s prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro, a political ally of Trump and a rival of Lula. According to Greer, improved dialogue in recent months has helped reset the tone between the two nations.
Despite the progress, the United States continues to scrutinize Brazil’s trade practices. Ongoing investigations focus on tariff policies, non-tariff barriers, and alleged “unfair” practices, including concerns over illegal Amazon deforestation that U.S. officials say undermines American timber producers, as well as preferential tariff advantages offered to U.S. competitors. Greer described Brazil as historically both a challenging and essential partner for the United States.
Trump and Lula recently discussed trade, economic cooperation, and efforts to combat organized crime during a phone call, with Lula expressing optimism for further tariff reductions. Greer also noted that Trump has voiced broader concerns about what he views as the weaponization of Brazil’s judicial system.
Lula, however, has asserted Brazil’s sovereignty, urging the United States to assist in fighting organized crime by arresting a Brazilian businessman residing in Miami, whom he described as a major criminal figure. Earlier at the UN General Assembly, Lula criticized external attacks on Brazil’s judiciary and reaffirmed that Brazil will not accept unilateral measures that undermine its national autonomy.
