In Argentina, the municipality of Comodoro Rivadavia is set to double its revenue through significant increases in taxes, fees, and contributions. According to Councilman Martín Gómez, these increases range between 100% and 150%. Gómez criticized the move, stating, "There is no logical argument for such a blow to the pockets of the residents of Comodoro." He also pointed out the contradiction of officials who previously defended against tax increases but then voted in favor of these measures.
Meanwhile, in Brazil, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced that Brazil would respond with "reciprocity" to trade tariffs imposed by the United States. This follows the U.S. decision to impose a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, directly affecting Brazil, a major supplier of these metals. Lula stated, "[Trump] cannot do what he wants, because if he does things that affect the results of other countries, there will always be a reaction."
Lula indicated that Brazil would either react commercially, file a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO), or tax products imported from the United States. He also expressed concern over the growing protectionism in the U.S., which he sees as contradicting its historical defense of free trade. Brazilian Minister of Economy Fernando Haddad echoed these concerns, calling such unilateral measures "counterproductive for the improvement of the global economy."
Brazil is considering various response options, including a formal complaint to the WTO or implementing equivalent tariffs on U.S. imports. Lula emphasized that any action against Brazil would be met with reciprocity, aiming to protect national interests without escalating into a trade war. He also expressed concern about the shift towards protectionism in U.S. trade policy, criticizing the U.S. for prioritizing its commercial interests without considering the impact on other nations.