Brazil has officially withdrawn its long-standing complaint against the United States at the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding steel and aluminum import tariffs imposed during the Trump administration.
The move marks the end of a dispute that began in 2018, when then-President Donald Trump enforced global tariffs of 25% on steel and 10% on aluminum imports, citing national security concerns. While several countries secured exemptions, Brazil faced significant challenges in negotiating lasting relief for its exporters.
According to Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, the decision to drop the case was made after assessing “strategic commercial interests” and ongoing bilateral dialogue with Washington. The ministry noted that the complaint had lost momentum in recent years as both nations sought other avenues of cooperation.
At the peak of the dispute, Brazilian steelmakers argued that the tariffs severely impacted their competitiveness in the U.S. market — one of their largest export destinations. In response, Brazil had considered countermeasures, but diplomatic talks kept the tension from escalating.
Experts believe the withdrawal could signal a more pragmatic trade approach under Brazil’s current administration, prioritizing market stability and diplomatic relations over prolonged legal battles. For U.S. trade policy, the resolution removes one of several WTO disputes that have lingered since the Trump years.
While the tariffs remain in effect for most nations, Brazil’s government has indicated it will continue seeking more favorable terms for its steel and aluminum exports through direct negotiations rather than legal action.