Post by : Badri Ariffin

In a move aimed at easing consumer costs, President Donald Trump has broadened tariff exemptions for a range of Brazilian food products, potentially lowering grocery bills for Americans struggling with rising prices.

The executive order, signed Thursday, retroactively takes effect from November 13 and removes dozens of food items from the 40% import levy Trump imposed earlier this year. The initial 10% exemption granted last week did not cover the higher punitive rate, which had been part of Trump’s strategy to pressure Brazil over legal proceedings against former President Jair Bolsonaro.

Brazil, the world’s largest coffee and beef exporter, had seen its shipments to the US decline due to these tariffs, which contributed to higher prices and ongoing shortages in key markets. Coffee, orange juice, and beef are expected to benefit most from the exemption, potentially easing financial pressures on American households.

The tariff rollback is a significant win for Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who has repeatedly pushed for the US to lift duties. High-level discussions between the two nations resumed after a brief encounter between Trump and Lula in New York in September, followed by talks in Malaysia last month where Lula urged for a “definitive solution” on tariffs.

Unlike most countries targeted by Trump’s trade measures, Brazil traditionally runs a trade deficit with the US, a point often emphasized by Lula. The change in policy also reflects a growing recognition in Washington of the impact tariffs have had on consumer prices, particularly in essential food sectors.

This adjustment comes shortly after elections in which concerns over living costs played a major role, suggesting a strategic focus on affordability for voters. Economists note that easing import levies on products unavailable in sufficient domestic quantities can help mitigate inflationary pressures while maintaining the broader trade agenda.

With the new exemptions in place, American shoppers may soon see a modest relief at the checkout for Brazilian-origin coffee, beef, and orange juice, marking a rare rollback in Trump’s expansive tariff program.

#Donald Trump #Global Economy