STORY-TRÅD·politik

Brazil, US to discuss tariffs at WTO

On Monday (Aug. 10), the United States responded to Brazil’s complaint filed with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over the additional tariffs imposed on Brazilian products. In its response, the US stated it was ready to engage in discussions and comply with the Brazilian government’s request for consultations. Notícias relacionadas:Brazil says US tariffs violate WTO rules.Tariff hike: Brazil files WTO complaint against US measures.Tariff hike: In Washington Post article, Lula criticizes US stance.“The United States accepts Brazil’s request to participate in consultations. We are ready to engage in dialogue with officials from your mission on a mutually convenient date for consultations,” the US government replied. Brazil presented its arguments in a request for consultations with the United States through the WTO’s dispute settlement system. The document outlines the situation, including the US allegations that Brazil is treating it discriminatorily. The request for consultations represents the first formal stage of the WTO’s dispute settlement system. At this stage, countries seek to negotiate a solution to the dispute before a panel is eventually established to review the case. Brazil filed its complaint with the WTO on July 27, arguing that the tariffs imposed by the United States are “inconsistent” with the rules established by the organization. “The measures in question [taken by the US] appear to be inconsistent with the obligations of the US under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994,” Brazil noted. The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade provides the legal basis for WTO members to impose tariffs. Brazil also asserts that it is being treated less favorably by the US in trade relations than other World Trade Organization member countries. China Chinese government officials also addressed the same request for consultations filed by Brazil and asked for authorization to participate in the consultations. China is Brazil’s largest trading partner. “China has a substantial commercial interest in these consultations,” the document submitted to the WTO states. China asserts that the US has also imposed “certain measures” on products originating in China. “These measures affect all Chinese exports to the United States, subject to specific exemptions, and, in particular, the competitive conditions for products originating in China and sold in the US market as a result of the additional tariffs imposed. China therefore respectfully requests to be allowed to participate in the consultations regarding this dispute,” the document reads.