"Brazil and United States Seek Trade Agreement as World Turns Toward Protectionism"
On Monday, Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva voiced optimism that a trade agreement with the United States is close at hand, referencing reassurances from President Donald Trump during their discussion at the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur. Lula characterized the conversation as "very positive" and stated that Trump had "promised" a solution, though the U.S. president did not specify any concrete terms, according to a
Back in July, the Trump administration introduced a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports, citing an economic crisis tied to Brazil's legal actions against Jair Bolsonaro, a known Trump supporter. Lula insisted the tariffs were based on "incorrect data" and handed Trump a written explanation of Brazil's stance during their meeting, according to
This meeting signaled an improvement after months of diplomatic tension. Lula also encouraged Trump to utilize Brazil's diplomatic weight in the region, including possible assistance regarding Venezuela. "Brazil can play a role in relations with Venezuela," he remarked, highlighting the country's strategic importance, according to
In addition to the bilateral discussions, Lula's trip to Malaysia saw the resumption of chicken exports, which had been halted since May due to concerns over avian flu—a development hailed as a win for Brazil's agricultural sector, according to the
As both presidents await the conclusion of negotiations, the results could significantly alter global trade relations amid a climate of increasing protectionism. For now, Lula remains optimistic: "I firmly believe we will find a solution within days," he told US News.
