The president signaled he would seek to use the threat of steep levies to reorient trade and protect his political allies.

Critics say the tariff on Brazil could further erode the Trump administration's credibility as it pursues an aggressive trade agenda.

Money managers from Aberdeen Group Plc to Franklin Templeton are staying bullish on Brazil, betting the country will withstand its unexpected turn in the epicenter of Donald Trump’s trade war. One reason: The fairly closed Brazilian economy,

Trump’s move deepens a rift between two North American countries that have suffered a debilitating blow to their decades-old alliance.

Brazilian assets face pressure from new US tariffs, but holding broad index trackers may reduce risk amid volatility. See why major Brazilian ETFs are a hold.

The twists and turns in U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies have not only rattled global financial markets but have also taken investors on a roller-coaster ride. Adding to the uncertainty are tariff-related legal challenges and Trump's assertion that he would hammer out bilateral deals with trade partners.

Brazil believes it can withstand Trump’s 50 percent tariff, and aides to Lula say he is unlikely to shrink from a confrontation with the White House.