The US government announced on Wednesday (2) the implementation of new rates on imported products, generating debates on the methodology used to determine these values.
No WWInternational Analyst Lourival Sant’Anna explained that, according to an analysis of economic journalist James Surowieck, does not follow conventional economic or commercial logic. The method revealed by Surowieck consists of sharing the commercial deficit that the US has with a particular country for the total value of imports from that same country. This calculation resulted in percentages that were applied as additional rates, ranging from 10% to 50% to different nations;
Impact on trade relations
The revelation of this method of calculation raises questions about transparency and justification of the commercial measures adopted by the United States. , reaching 50%, while Cambodia faces a 49%rate.
In the case of Brazil, despite having a commercial deficit with the US, the country was included in the list of those who will receive a minimum rate of 10%. According to calculations based on the logic presented, Brazil should impose an extra 3.7% tariff on US products, considering the US $ 300 million deficit compared to a total import of US $ 40.6 billion.
Controversies and inaccurate information
The analysis also highlighted inconsistencies in official statements about tariffs. A remarkable example is the case of Canada, where it was alleged that the country imposes “shameful surcharge of up to 300%” on US dairy products. However, this information was contested, revealing that such rates would only apply if exports significantly exceeded the established quotas, which rarely occurs.
These revelations raise concerns about the accuracy of the information used to justify trade policies and their potential impact on international economic relations. The international community is awaiting additional clarifications on the methodology employed and its implications for global trade.
