Brazil's Attorney General: Brazil and the United States Can Do Better

New York Times

14-07-2025

On July 9, the president of the United States unilaterally announced a 50 percent tariff on all Brazilian exports — an unprecedented measure in the modern history of our countries' relations. The justification President Trump has offered — Brazil's alleged unfair trade practices, supposed attacks on free speech and the prosecution of a former president — demands a careful, principled response and a firm defense of our legal order, our sovereignty and the integrity of our institutions.
Brazil and the United States have long cultivated a mature, diverse and strategic relationship. Last year we celebrated 200 years of diplomatic ties, dating back to when President James Monroe received José Silvestre Rebello in Washington as the first envoy of the newly independent Empire of Brazil. Our partnership has withstood global conflicts, economic crises and political transitions because of our shared values: democracy, respect for the rule of law and a general commitment to peaceful international cooperation. These principles are not mere abstractions. They are the foundation upon which our societies are built, and they require constant vigilance and mutual respect, especially in times of disagreement.
Mr. Trump's assertion that the United States suffers from an unfair and unreciprocated trade relationship with Brazil is contradicted by the facts. According to U.S. government data, in 2024 alone, the U.S. trade surplus with Brazil reached $7.4 billion. When services are included, according to the Brazilian government's calculations of U.S. data, it rises to $28.6 billion, making Brazil the third-largest contributor to the U.S. global trade surplus when goods and services are combined. Over the past 15 years, the United States has accumulated recurring and significant surpluses in goods and services with Brazil totaling $410 billion.
The imposition of a blanket 50 percent tariff is not only disproportionate but also contrary to the rules of fair trade. Such measures undermine legal certainty for businesses and investors, disrupt global supply chains and violate the spirit of cooperation that has defined our relationship. In Brazil we respond to such challenges with respect for the law, for international norms and for our constitutional mandate to defend the national interest — including, if necessary, through reciprocal measures.
Mr. Trump has said the tariffs are in connection with the ongoing judicial proceedings against former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is accused of participating in an attempted coup, which Mr. Trump called a 'witch hunt.' As attorney general, I must emphasize that the Brazilian government categorically rejects any efforts by outside parties to interfere in our judicial processes. The ongoing legal proceedings against individuals accused of attempting to subvert our democracy on Jan. 8, 2023, are the exclusive domain of Brazil's independent judiciary. No foreign government has the right to dictate or question the administration of justice in our country. The defense of legality and the autonomy of our institutions are nonnegotiable pillars of our democracy.
Mr. Trump's other allegations last week regarding censorship of U.S. tech companies and attacks on freedom of expression in Brazil are equally unfounded. In Brazil, the right to freedom of speech is protected, but it is not to be confused with the right to incite violence, commit fraud or undermine the rule of law — limitations that are broadly recognized in democratic societies. Last month our Supreme Court recognized that under certain circumstances, digital platforms can be held liable for third-party content that violates our rule of law, such as those involving child pornography or other illicit content, including inciting anti-democratic actions or hate speech. All companies, domestic and foreign, operating in Brazil are subject to our laws, just as Brazilian companies comply with U.S. regulations when operating in the United States.
This is a critical moment. Under the leadership of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the Brazilian government remains committed to a constructive and pragmatic relationship with the United States, grounded in respect for sovereignty, legality and the rule of law. Our differences must be addressed through dialogue, negotiation and mutual respect — not threats and punitive measures.
Our countries have overcome greater challenges in the past. The strength of our partnership lies in our ability to work through disagreements while upholding the principles that unite us. Brazil will continue to defend its sovereignty, the integrity of its legal system and the interests of its people while seeking ways to deepen cooperation with the United States in the service of global peace and prosperity.
The world is watching. Let us choose engagement over escalation, partnership over provocation and our enduring values over arbitrariness.
Jorge Messias is the attorney general of Brazil.
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