Brazil is watching the November 3 US midterm elections for signs of how relations with Washington may develop, as trade disputes continue to strain ties between the two governments. A report by France 24 described the Brazilian government’s close attention to the vote.
The election is being treated in Brasília as a possible gauge of the bilateral relationship, rather than as a decision that would immediately change trade policy. Government interlocutors told Brazilian outlet Metrópoles that the Lula administration was waiting for the result before setting the direction of its approach to Washington.
Relations have become more tense since Donald Trump returned to the White House, with US tariffs on Brazilian goods adding to friction. The measures vary by product: Brazil’s Ministry of Development says some goods can face a 25% additional tariff, while a separate 12.5% measure on certain products may apply on top of it. The combined rate can reach 37.5% for some items, but those rates do not apply uniformly to all Brazilian exports.
Trade measures remain a central concern
The tariff dispute has made the US political climate relevant to Brazilian officials as they assess the relationship. The outcome of the midterms may affect the balance of power in Congress, but the vote itself does not automatically alter the tariffs.
For exporters, the practical impact depends on the product and the measures that apply to it. Brazil’s ministry has published an overview of the tariffs and their reach across Brazilian exports.
Clayton Ward 
Reid Bentley