Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gestures during a ceremony to announce investments in the defense industry at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia on February 12, 2025. (Photo by EVARISTO SA / AFP)
Brasilia: Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva pledged to respond to the 25 percent tariff on steel imports imposed by US President Donald Trump, following an executive order signed by Trump earlier this week.
Lula stated that there is no doubt that Brazil will reciprocate, as the second-largest exporter of steel to the United States after Canada, adding that in case the US impose taxes on Brazilian steel, Brazil will retaliate commercially, file a complaint with the World Trade Organization, or impose taxes on products they import from them.
Brazilian President further explained that Trump can say whatever he wants because he is the President of the United States, but he can't do whatever he wants.
If he does something that affects other countries, there will always be a reaction. However, he emphasized his preference for improving Brazil's relations with the United States and strengthening trade ties with its second-largest trading partner after China.
In 2024, Brazil exported 4.08 million tons of steel to the United States and imports many steel-based manufactured products, including industrial machinery, car engines, and aerospace parts.
Trump signed executive orders imposing a 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminum imports, effective March 12.
