Thu Jan 30 23:52:11 IST 2025: ## Lula Warns Trump: Tariffs on Brazilian Goods Will Be Met With Retaliation

**Brasília, Brazil** – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva issued a strong warning to his US counterpart, Donald Trump, on Thursday, stating that any increase in tariffs on Brazilian products would be met with reciprocal action. While emphasizing his preference for improved US-Brazil relations, Lula made it clear that Brazil would not hesitate to defend its interests.

“If he taxes Brazilian products, Brazil will reciprocate in taxing products that are exported from the United States,” Lula declared during a wide-ranging press conference. He expressed a desire to strengthen trade ties with Brazil’s second-largest trading partner, but insisted on mutual respect. “I want to respect the United States and for Trump to respect Brazil,” he added.

Lula’s comments come amidst rising concerns over Trump’s protectionist trade policies and his past threats to impose tariffs on various countries. The Brazilian president also criticized Trump’s past pronouncements regarding the Panama Canal and Greenland, stating that such actions disregard national sovereignty.

Beyond trade, Lula used the press conference to address several key issues. He highlighted the global threat to democracy, warning against a return to authoritarianism. He also sharply criticized Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, calling it a setback for humanity. Lula, whose country will host the COP30 climate summit in November, stressed the need for concrete action from wealthy nations on climate finance commitments.

The press conference also served as an opportunity for Lula to address domestic concerns. He downplayed recent drops in his approval rating, stating he wasn’t worried about opinion polls. He also sought to alleviate concerns about Brazil’s economy, acknowledging the recent interest rate hike by the central bank but expressing confidence in the new central bank president’s autonomy. The government is exploring measures to reduce food prices and boost domestic production through a large-scale credit program. Lula also emphasized the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.

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