Xi Jinping and Lula da Silva Pledge Unity Against US Tariffs
President Xi Jinping and President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva pledged deeper bilateral cooperation to oppose unilateralism following US tariff increases on Brazilian goods.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva held a one-hour telephone conference on August 12, 2025, to strengthen bilateral ties and coordinate a response to unilateral trade policies. The call followed a decision by the United States to increase tariffs on Brazilian goods to 50 percent.
Both leaders characterized their relationship as being at an all-time high and pledged to expand cooperation in the digital economy, health, satellites, and oil and gas. They specifically condemned protectionism and unilateralism, with Xi expressing support for Brazil's national sovereignty and legitimate rights in the face of US tariffs.
Beyond trade, the presidents discussed utilizing the G20 and BRICS to defend multilateralism and safeguard the interests of the Global South. They also coordinated efforts for the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference in Belem and discussed facilitating a political settlement for the crisis in Ukraine through the Friends of Peace group.
