Brazil's representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and Director of Economic and Financial Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Philip Gough, delivered a speech at the WTO General Council meeting held in Geneva, Switzerland. He condemned President Trump's "arbitrary and chaotic" announcement and implementation of new tariff policies.

According to Zhongjin's understanding, although not directly naming Trump, Gough expressed Brazil's deep concern about the United States' use of trade measures to interfere in other countries' domestic affairs. This statement received support from more than 40 countries, including all 27 EU nations.

Gough pointed out that the Trump administration's tariff policies "are disrupting global value chains and could lead to a vicious cycle of high prices and developmental stagnation in the world economy." He emphasized that such unilateral sanctions "blatantly violate the fundamental principles that underpin the functioning of the WTO, which are crucial for the normal operation of international trade."

On the 9th, Trump announced a 50% tariff on all Brazilian goods imported into the United States, effective from August 1. In justifying the imposition of tariffs, Trump mentioned Brazil's former President Bolsonaro and referred to the Supreme Federal Court of Brazil's trial against him as a politically motivated "witch hunt."

With less than 10 days before the new tariff policy takes effect, the Brazilian government has reiterated its intention to first attempt tariff negotiations. President Lula announced plans to file a lawsuit with the WTO to prevent the implementation of the U.S. government's policy.

Diplomats generally believe that appealing to the WTO reflects a political stance and may not necessarily result in legally binding actions. In this scenario, Brazil is also evaluating whether to join forces with other countries affected by U.S. tariffs in filing a lawsuit.

Gough also stated that the international community is witnessing a dangerous trend of using tariffs as a means to interfere in other countries' domestic affairs. He stressed that if negotiations fail, Brazil will take all necessary legal measures to defend the country's economy and interests, including utilizing the WTO's dispute settlement mechanism.

The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs believes that negotiations based on "power play" are a "dangerous shortcut" leading to instability and conflict. Faced with the threat of a fragmented global order, steadfastly adhering to multilateralism is the only viable path forward. Brazil is willing to engage in dialogue and cooperation towards this goal.