Brazil Formally Urges US to Reconsider Trade Probe, Warning of Risk to Bilateral Ties
The Lula government formally requested that the USTR (Office of the United States Trade Representative) reverse its decision to launch a trade investigation into Brazil, arguing that unilateral actions based on this probe could undermine the multilateral trading system and have adverse consequences for bilateral relations.
"Brazil urges the USTR to reconsider the initiation of this investigation and to engage in constructive dialogue. Unilateral measures under Section 301 risk weakening the multilateral trade system and may have adverse consequences for bilateral relations," states the document, signed by Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira.
The USTR’s investigation targets multiple areas: digital trade and electronic payment services; allegedly unfair and preferential tariffs; anti-corruption legislation; intellectual property protection; access to the ethanol market; and illegal deforestation.
The Lula administration argues that Brazil is the largest South American investor in the United States, and in recent years, its investment flows have surpassed those of other countries in the region.
In addition to economic integration, the Itamaraty-prepared document notes, both countries share global objectives, particularly in the areas of energy, public health, and regional security.
