Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva remains optimistic about reaching a trade agreement with the United States in the near future, potentially resolving the punitive tariffs on Brazilian exports imposed by the Trump administration. Speaking from Kuala Lumpur following a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Lula expressed confidence that the two nations could finalize a deal within days.
This optimism comes after a tumultuous period characterized by a 50 percent tariff placed on Brazilian goods in July, a decision linked to legal issues surrounding former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a close ally of Trump. Lula described his diplomatic engagement with Trump as “surprisingly good” and mentioned that Trump assured him of the prospect of an agreement. “He guaranteed to me that we will reach an agreement,” Lula said, emphasizing his belief that a resolution is imminent.
Following the discussions at the ASEAN summit, Trump indicated a willingness to negotiate, suggesting that the prospect of a deal is favorable. “We’ll see what happens,” he commented, reinforcing the notion that both sides are interested in moving forward.
During the summit, Lula presented Trump with a document that outlined arguments against the tariff hike. He acknowledged the U.S.’s right to impose such measures but argued that the decision was based on “mistaken information.” While Trump did not explicitly commit to retracting the tariffs, Lula noted that no conditions were discussed during their meeting.
Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira echoed Lula’s sentiments, calling the talks “very positive” and asserting that Trump would direct his team to begin a period of bilateral negotiations.
Lula has previously deemed the U.S. tariffs a “mistake,” pointing out the significant trade surplus the United States has enjoyed with Brazil over the last 15 years, which totals approximately $410 billion. Furthermore, Lula emphasized that Bolsonaro, who has been sentenced to prison for attempting a coup, should not play a role in trade discussions: “Bolsonaro is part of the past now in Brazilian history,” he stated.
The unfolding situation holds the potential for a renewed and constructive partnership between the two nations, signaling a shift in diplomatic relations and a hopeful outlook for international trade.