Trump and Lula Discuss Boosting Brazil-U.S. Economic Ties with Business and Tariff Talks
Following a positive phone call, Presidents Lula and Trump discussed reducing tariffs and enhancing trade cooperation between Brazil and the U.S., with plans for future bilateral meetings.
- • President Trump called Lula a 'good man' and expressed optimism about business collaborations.
- • Lula requested tariff reductions on Brazilian products during their call.
- • Trump appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to lead trade negotiations with Brazil.
- • Both leaders considered meeting at upcoming international summits like ASEAN and COP30.
Key details
In a recent phone conversation on December 6, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva engaged in a positive dialogue aimed at strengthening bilateral economic relations. President Trump described Lula as a “good man” and expressed enthusiasm about initiating business collaborations between Brazil and the United States. The 30-minute call, recounted by both leaders, focused on improving trade ties and featured Lula's request for tariff reductions on Brazilian products.
Trump emphasized the mutual respect that developed during their previous meeting at the United Nations General Assembly, saying: “We met and liked each other... and had a great conversation, let's start doing business.” Lula proposed restoring amicable relations and the removal of tariffs, aiming to deepen cooperation between the two democracies. While Trump did not confirm immediate tariff reductions, he appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to oversee ongoing negotiations with Brazilian officials.
Both presidents expressed optimism for future encounters, with potential meetings discussed at the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia or the upcoming COP30 climate conference scheduled in Belém, Pará. Trump also mentioned a possible visit to Brazil, while Lula indicated his willingness to travel to the U.S. for direct talks.
This diplomatic outreach follows a period of cautious engagement and signals renewed interest in enhancing trade relations and economic collaboration between the Americas’ two largest economies. The focus on lifting trade barriers and facilitating dialogue indicates a forward-looking approach to bilateral cooperation, prioritizing economic growth and diplomatic warmth.
According to Trump, “Brazil and the U.S. will get along well together,” underscoring a shared commitment to fostering stronger economic and political ties that could benefit industries and trade in both nations.