U. S. and Brazil: A Trade Dance with Many Steps

The U.S. and Brazil have been engaged in trade discussions, with signs of improving relations. Jamieson Greer, the U.S. Trade Representative, noted that President Donald Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva have had constructive conversations on the matter. However, Greer emphasized that both sides will need to compromise to reach a deal.

Key Points of the Discussions

• No Specific Timeline or Deal Details: Greer did not provide specifics on when or what kind of trade agreement might emerge from these talks.
• Brazil as a Tough but Important Partner: Greer acknowledged Brazil's significance as a trade partner, despite challenges such as tariffs and environmental concerns like deforestation in the Amazon.

Recent Developments

• Tariff Reductions: Trump recently reduced high tariffs on Brazilian goods like coffee and fruits. These tariffs were initially imposed to penalize Brazil for actions taken by a former Brazilian president.
• Phone Conversation: Trump and Lula spoke last week, discussing trade, the economy, and crime prevention. Lula expressed expectations for further tariff reductions, while Trump raised concerns about Brazil's legal and judicial systems.

Brazil's Stance

• Sovereignty: Lula has been firm that Brazil will not compromise its sovereignty. He made this clear during his speech at the UN General Assembly.
• Crime Fighting: Lula suggested that the U.S. should arrest a Brazilian businessman residing in Miami, whom he identified as a major figure in Brazilian organized crime, to assist in Brazil's efforts to combat crime.