Brazil’s government on Tuesday celebrated a U.S. decision to remove tariffs on Brazilian aircraft exports, lowering the previous 10% duty to zero. The move comes amid broader changes in U.S. trade policy and marks a win for Brazil’s aerospace sector, led by planemaker Embraer, which had faced a competitive disadvantage compared with rivals like Canada’s Bombardier and France’s Dassault Aviation. These competitors have long enjoyed tariff-free access to the U.S. market. Aircraft have been Brazil’s third-largest export to the United States in 2024 and 2025, according to the Ministry of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade. The ministry noted that the sector is high in technological intensity and adds significant value to the economy. With the latest tariff changes, the ministry estimated that about 25% of Brazilian exports to the U.S., roughly $9.3 billion in 2025, are now subject to a 10% global tariff. This adjustment puts these goods on equal footing with products from other countries. Previously, around 22% of Brazilian exports to the U.S. faced additional tariffs of 40% or 50%, creating a major barrier for competitive industries. The ministry highlighted that agricultural products such as fish, honey, tobacco, and soluble coffee will also see tariffs drop from 50% to 10%. This adjustment allows these products to compete fairly with international suppliers. Brazil had earlier welcomed the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down President Donald Trump’s broad tariffs, which had targeted Latin America’s largest economy. The ministry stated that 46% of Brazilian exports to the United States in 2025 will no longer face additional tariffs, while 29% remain under Section 232 duties, affecting steel, aluminum, wood, copper, and furniture. The policy change strengthens trade ties between the two countries. The United States is Brazil’s second-largest trading partner after China. Unlike its large goods surplus with China, Brazil has posted a trade deficit with the U.S. for years, reaching $7.5 billion in 2025, according to the ministry. Analysts suggest that the zero-duty status for aircraft could help narrow this gap by boosting high-value exports. For Embraer, the decision provides a significant advantage. The company competes in a global market where tariff costs can influence airline purchasing decisions. By eliminating U.S. tariffs, Brazilian jets now enter the American market on equal terms with competitors, enhancing the sector’s profitability and international reach. Trade experts also pointed out that the adjustment benefits smaller exporters in the agricultural and industrial sectors. Products like fish, honey, and soluble coffee will face fewer barriers, while manufacturers of steel, aluminum, and copper still operate under Section 232 tariffs. The ministry emphasized that these measures aim to stabilize Brazil’s trade environment and create more predictable conditions for exporters. U.S. tariff changes come amid broader policy shifts in Washington to recalibrate trade rules and ensure compliance with international standards. Brazilian officials welcomed the clarity and predictability these adjustments provide. The government sees potential for further discussions with the U.S. on reducing remaining barriers for strategic sectors. The aerospace and agricultural gains signal a positive trend for Brazil’s exports in 2026. Observers expect that duty-free access for aircraft will attract new orders from U.S. buyers and strengthen Brazil’s position in the North American market. Industry representatives called the change “a major step toward fair competition” and a recognition of Brazil’s growing technological and industrial capacity. Overall, Brazil’s zero-tariff access to the U.S. market is expected to reinforce trade, create growth opportunities for high-value industries, and enhance competitiveness across the economy. The government continues to monitor remaining Section 232 duties and explore ways to expand duty-free access for other sectors, aiming to solidify Brazil’s position as a leading exporter in the global market.