Trump’s 50% Levy on Brazil Shows World Nothing Is Off Limits

Trump to Impose 50% Tariff on Goods From Brazil

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

By Hadriana Lowenkron, Swati Pandey, and Katia Dmitrieva

July 9, 2025 at 3:44 PM UTC

Updated on

July 10, 2025 at 9:30 AM UTC

Donald Trump threatened to impose a 50% tariff on Brazil over its domestic political affairs, the most extreme case yet of the US president weaponizing trade policy to make unrelated demands.

Trump cited the treatment of former President Jair Bolsonaro — a right-wing populist leader — in his letter to Brazil on Wednesday, calling on authorities to drop charges against him over an alleged coup attempt. “This Trial should not be taking place. It is a Witch Hunt that should end IMMEDIATELY!” Trump wrote in the letter.