Daily Editorial

The leaders of Brazil and India vowed on Thursday in a telephone call to ‘defend multilateralism’ after U.S. President Donald Trump imposed punishing tariffs on imports from both their countries.

The talks between Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi came a day after Mr. Trump announced 50% tariffs on Indian goods, matching the punishing taxes he has imposed on a raft of Brazilian goods.

Brazil’s presidency said that the two leaders had stressed the need ‘to defend multilateralism and confront the economic challenges’ posed by Trump’s tariff war.

Mr. Modi, on X, said he was committed to deepening ties with fellow BRICS member Brazil, adding: ‘A strong people-centric partnership between Global South nations benefits everyone.’

A first salvo of 25% tariffs on Indian goods took effect on Thursday, with the additional 25% set to enter effect in three weeks.

Mr. Trump has also singled out Brazil for particular punishment — for putting his ally, former President Jair Bolsonaro, on trial for plotting a coup.