In a renewed escalation of trade tensions, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order initiating 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports, citing national security concerns linked to the South American country's current economic strategies. However, in a notable twist, the order provides a seven-day implementation window and includes major sectoral exemptions.

According to the document, these measures are a response to "policies and actions of the Government of Brazil" deemed threatening to U.S. national security interests. Trump also issued a rare defense of Jair Bolsonaro, claiming that the former president, now on trial in Brazil, is the target of political persecution.

The order notably excludes Embraer aircraft parts and orange juice, two Brazilian exports with deep ties to the U.S. economy. Embraer, which employs more than 2,000 workers in the United States, has been lobbying intensely in recent weeks to avert the tariffs, warning of possible supply chain disruptions and higher input costs for U.S.-based aerospace manufacturers.

Market reactions were swift. The Brazilian real dipped by 1% against the U.S. dollar following the initial news from the White House but regained ground after the exclusions were announced. Embraer stock, initially tumbling, rebounded sharply upon clarification that the aerospace giant was mostly spared.

The selective tariff application is causing speculation in trade policy circles. Analysts point to a balancing act: appealing to America-first economic sentiments while avoiding shocks to key U.S. industries. The citrus industry, for example, remains heavily reliant on Brazilian orange juice imports, particularly in the offseason.

This trade move comes at a time of increasing scrutiny over foreign supply chains and as U.S. policymakers prepare for debates on the next farm bill, which may address broader commodity pricing and international trade vulnerabilities.

Although the tariffs won't take effect until next week, the announcement sends a strong signal about Trump's enduring influence on U.S. trade policy and his continued support for conservative leaders abroad, even amid legal controversies.

The White House has not released further details on which additional Brazilian products may be affected, or whether this marks the beginning of a broader trade shift with Latin America.