Trump imposes tariffs on 85 countries

The White House announced a fresh set of tariffs on imports from 85 countries on July 24, 2026, officials said, prompting pushback from both Democratic lawmakers and some Republicans. The package includes a 12.5% tariff on imports from Brazil; officials described the move as part of a broader trade policy shift.

12.5% tariff on Brazil

Officials said the Brazilian levy was framed as a response to alleged gaps in forced-labor enforcement, but Brazil’s government called the duty “completely arbitrary and unjustified,” the statement said. Lawmakers quoted by officials argued the measures function like a sales tax that will raise consumer prices and hit supply chains that rely on those imports.

The announcement highlighted internal tensions: officials noted prior cuts to US funding for forced-labor enforcement while proposing new trade levers. Industry groups and exporters are likely to press for exemptions and may pursue formal trade challenges, officials warned.

The immediate budgetary impact is unclear because no effective date was provided; customs and trade authorities have not published implementing guidance, officials said. Watch for further administrative guidance and possible responses from affected capitals; officials did not set a timetable for next steps, leaving the implementation window open through the summer.

Officials said they expect follow-up statements in the coming days; observers should look for additional guidance by July 31, 2026.