Washington( The COW News Digital)Former U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 50% tariff on Brazilian products unless the South American country halts what he called “politically motivated” judicial proceedings against ex-Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and stops targeting American tech companies.
In an open letter released on Wednesday, Trump accused the Brazilian government of engaging in economic aggression by targeting U.S.-based digital platforms—many of which, including his own Trump Media, have been penalized or had accounts suspended under Brazilian court orders.
“The new 50% tariff is necessary to correct the gross injustices carried out by the current Brazilian regime,” Trump wrote. He further hinted at invoking Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act to launch an official investigation into Brazil’s digital trade practices, a tool historically used to justify U.S. trade sanctions.
The controversial statement drew a swift response from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who warned that Brazil will retaliate with equal force if such tariffs are enacted. “Any foreign interference in our judiciary will not be tolerated,” Lula asserted, emphasizing the independence of Brazil’s legal system.
At the heart of the dispute is the prosecution of Jair Bolsonaro, a far-right populist and Trump ally, who faces charges related to alleged electoral misconduct and incitement of political unrest. Trump called the case “an international disgrace,” vowing full support for Bolsonaro, whom he described as a “friend of liberty.”
Tensions have also escalated over Brazil’s crackdown on social media platforms accused of spreading misinformation. Several U.S.-based tech firms, including Trump Media, have been ordered to restrict or suspend accounts—moves Trump labeled as anti-American censorship.
Adding fuel to the fire, Trump criticized the BRICS summit, calling it an “anti-American platform” and threatened an additional 10% tariff on all imports from BRICS member states if the bloc continues to “undermine U.S. interests.”
The escalating rhetoric signals a growing rift between the United States and Latin America’s largest economy, raising concerns over a potential trade war that could affect global markets and diplomatic ties ahead of the U.S. 2026 presidential election.
