USTR proposes Section 301 tariffs on Brazilian goods
Comments on the proposed 25% tariff are due by July 1, 2026.
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) on June 1, 2026, determined that certain acts, policies, and practices of Brazil are actionable under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, and has proposed a 25% tariff on all goods of Brazil, subject to specific exemptions. Read the USTR notice
Background
The USTR on July 15, 2025, initiated an investigation to evaluate Brazilian policies regarding digital trade and electronic payment services, preferential tariffs, anti-corruption enforcement, intellectual property (IP) protection, ethanol market access, and illegal deforestation. Following a public hearing and consultations with the Brazilian government, USTR concluded that Brazil's practices in these areas are unreasonable or discriminatory and place a burden or restriction on U.S. commerce.
Proposed action
The investigation revealed significant concerns across all six areas, illustrating a pattern of practices that disadvantage U.S. businesses. To obtain the elimination of these practices, USTR proposes applying a 25% tariff on all Brazilian imports, though exemptions are provided for informational materials, donations, accompanied baggage, articles subject to Section 232 tariffs, and specific products listed in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) annex. These exclusions cover critical raw materials, products that could cause economy-wide supply disruptions, and items that cannot be sourced elsewhere in sufficient quantities.
The USTR is inviting public feedback on this proposed action, with comments due July 1, 2026, and a public hearing is scheduled on July 6, 2026.