Signal Trump directs USTR Section 301 tariff action against Brazil over trade practices and deforestation

Summary

President Trump directed the US Trade Representative to impose Section 301 sanctions on Brazil over what the administration characterizes as unfair trade practices and illegal deforestation. Most Brazilian imports will face a 25 percent punitive tariff, with some essential raw materials exempted. The action is framed within the administration's America First Trade Policy, with stated goals of protecting domestic manufacturing and addressing global trade barriers. A separate Section 301 action targeting 60 economies over forced-labor practices was announced the same week. Together they show an intensifying and broadening use of Section 301 tariff authority against multiple trading partners at once.