An Ipsos-Ipec poll released this Tuesday (12) shows that 75% of Brazilians believe the 50% tariff imposed by the United States on Brazilian exports is politically motivated. Only 12% said the measure is purely a commercial issue, while 5% see it as both political and commercial, and 8% did not know or chose not to answer.
Among those who view the measure as political, the majority are between 45 and 59 years old (80%). Regionally, 77% live in Brazil’s Northeast, another 77% in the North, 71% in the Center-West, and 72% in the South. By income, 77% of those earning up to one minimum wage share this view, as do 70% of those earning above five minimum wages. Among Catholics, 76% see political motives; among evangelicals, the rate is 74%.
The poll surveyed 2,000 people in 132 cities between August 1 and 5, one day before the tariff’s implementation. It has a 95% confidence level.
Other findings show 33% completely agree with Trump’s measure, 16% partially agree, 13% partially disagree, and 30% totally disagree, while 7% did not respond. Those most in favor of Brazil retaliating with similar measures are voters for President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (61%), residents of the North and Center-West (58%), people aged 16 to 24 (55%), those with higher education (53%), women (51%), Catholics (51%), and those earning one to two minimum wages (50%).
Opposition to retaliation is highest among voters for former President Jair Bolsonaro (56%), residents of the South (52%), people living in urban peripheries (52%), and evangelicals (50%).
The poll also indicates the tariffs have affected perceptions of the United States: 38% say their view has worsened, 6% say it has improved, and 51% see no change.
After the US imposed the tariffs, 68% believe Brazil should prioritize trade deals with other partners, such as China and the European Union, while 25% disagree. The survey also found that 60% fear the confrontation with Washington could leave Brazil more isolated internationally, while 32% do not see that risk.
