Move reignites trade tensions and raises questions about personal diplomacy in international economics

Trump Slaps Tariffs on Brazil in Apparent Favor to Old Ally Bolsonaro
Move reignites trade tensions and raises questions about personal diplomacy in international economics

Washington — Former U.S. President Donald Trump has re-ignited global trade tensions by announcing a new set of tariffs targeting key Brazilian exports. The controversial move, which Trump described as necessary to “protect American workers,” has been widely interpreted by analysts as a political favor to his longtime ally, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

The tariffs, which apply to Brazilian aluminum, steel, and select agricultural goods, were reintroduced via executive memorandum just weeks after Bolsonaro publicly endorsed Trump’s ongoing 2024 campaign. The timing, coupled with reports of behind-the-scenes coordination between the two camps, has fueled allegations that personal relationships are influencing U.S. trade policy.

“This is not about economics,” said Maria Santoro, a senior trade fellow at the Peterson Institute. “It’s a geopolitical nod to Bolsonaro, a transactional show of loyalty that undermines the integrity of U.S. trade institutions.”

In Brazil, the reaction has been mixed. Bolsonaro allies praised the move as a signal of continued relevance and leverage on the international stage. Others, particularly within Brazil’s current administration, condemned it as a cynical maneuver that will hurt Brazilian farmers and manufacturers.

“This is a political stunt dressed up as economic nationalism,” said Brazilian Finance Minister Ana Costa. “It’s Brazil that will pay the price for Trump and Bolsonaro’s personal friendship.”

During his presidency, Trump repeatedly used tariffs as a tool of negotiation and retaliation, especially with China and the EU. His revived strategy underlines how, even out of office, his influence continues to shape global trade rhetoric. Bolsonaro, who has faced his own political and legal troubles in Brazil, appears eager to return to international relevance — and aligning with Trump may be his most viable route.

Critics of the new tariffs argue that the decision could backfire economically and diplomatically. Brazil remains a key partner in U.S. food supply chains and aerospace cooperation, and some fear retaliatory tariffs or strained relations in regional blocs like Mercosur.

Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, Democrats and even some Republicans voiced concern over the sudden announcement. “Trade policy should not be wielded as a personal tool,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski. “This is not how allies should be treated — nor how global markets should be governed.”

Despite the backlash, Trump remains defiant. “We need to be strong. We need to put America first again,” he said during a rally in Florida. “Brazil will respect that — and my friend Jair knows it.”

As both Trump and Bolsonaro plot potential political comebacks, their mutual support appears undiminished. But for industries caught in the crossfire, the cost of their camaraderie is becoming increasingly real.