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US proposes 25% tariff on Brazilian goods, raising concerns in footwear sector

Jun 5, 2026 Brazil

A preliminary US proposal to impose a 25% tariff on Brazilian exports has sparked concern throughout the footwear industry, although this could still be revised before a final decision is made

The United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) preliminary decision, announced on the 2^nd of June, to recommend a new 25% tariff on Brazilian exports to the US has raised concerns in the country’s footwear sector, even if the Section 301 decision is reversible.

“The United States has historically been the main destination for Brazilian footwear exports”, said Haroldo Ferreira, Executive President of the Brazilian Footwear Industries Association (Abicalçados), highlighting that this measure was announced at a time when the sector was beginning to recover following the end of the 50% tariff in February.

In April, Brazil exported 842,900 pairs of shoes to the US, generating 14.72 million US dollars. This represents increases of 40.5% and 16.5%, respectively, compared to the same month last year. Since January, exports to the US totalled 3.8 million pairs and 54.5 million US dollars, representing a 7.8% increase in volume but an 18.9% decrease in revenue compared to the same period in 2025.

“The possibility of a new additional tariff creates further uncertainty for Brazilian exporters and US importers alike”, he added, noting that the initiative could give exporters from other countries, particularly in Asia, a competitive advantage over Brazilian exports.

The proposal is still open to public consultation until the 1^st of July, during which time stakeholders can submit technical and economic arguments. Abicalçados believes that the measure could still be revised through bilateral negotiations and coordinated efforts between the government and the private sector.

Source and Image Credits: abicalcados.com.br

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