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Brazil rejects request to remove ethanol import tariff

The USDA says Brazil has denied requests to remove its 18% tariff on ethanol imports.

In a statement, the agency said it’s the second time the Tariff Changes Committee of the Chamber of Foreign Trade (CAMEX) rejected requests to reduce the ethanol tariff since its implementation in February 2023.

U.S. Congresswoman Ashley Hinson tells Brownfield Brazil’s decision is disappointing. “I think it’s unfortunate what Brazil continues to do to unfairly compete with our producers,” she said Wednesday morning. “We need to make sure we have trade policy that works and rewards our producers and gives them access to these markets.”

The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office is expected to press Brazil to reconsider. USDA says the U.S. Grains Council joined the Brazilian Association of Fuel Importers in seeking the permanent removal of the tariff.