On February 1, US President Donald Trump announced the implementation of a 25% import tariff on products from Canada and Mexico, excluding oil, which will be taxed at 10%. This decision marks a significant shift in US trade policy and has raised concerns in the financial sector.
The announcement comes after a period of optimism in the Brazilian stock market, with the Ibovespa index rising 4.86% in January. However, the new tariffs have dampened this positive sentiment, particularly impacting the commodities and steel sectors.
In 2024, Brazil exported $40.3 billion to the US while importing $40.5 billion, making the US the second-largest importer of Brazilian goods. According to experts, the tariffs are expected to adversely affect commodity producers listed on the Brazilian stock exchange.
Automakers in the US are also feeling the impact, with General Motors and Ford experiencing significant drops in share prices following the announcement. Approximately 22% of vehicles sold in the US were imported from Canada and Mexico in 2024, making these tariffs particularly concerning for the automotive industry.
In response to the tariffs, Canada and Mexico are considering their own measures. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has urged consumers to pay attention to product labels, suggesting a shift in consumer behavior towards US products.
As the situation develops, the implications for international trade and economic stability remain uncertain, with potential repercussions for various sectors.