Key Exporting States in Brazil’s Southeast Region
The proposed 50% tariff by Donald Trump on Brazil is expected to have the most significant impact on the southeastern region of the country. The top three exporters to the United States are São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais, according to a survey by Amcham Brasil (American Chamber of Commerce in Brazil) and Mdic (Ministry of Development, Industry, and Commerce).
Export Figures in 2024
- São Paulo: Exported nearly US$2.445 billion, accounting for 33.6% of the total.
- Rio de Janeiro: Exported US$1.330 billion, making up 18.4% of the total.
- Minas Gerais: Exported US$827 million, representing 11.4% of the total.
Together, these southeastern states accounted for 71% of Brazil’s total exports in 2024.
Export Figures in 2025 (January-June)
- São Paulo: Exported US$1.150 billion, with aviation products from Embraer being the primary export.
- Rio de Janeiro: Exported US$575 million, with crude oil and semi-finished iron and steel products being the main exports.
- Minas Gerais: Exported US$431 million, with coffee machinery, pork, and electric energy being the principal goods.
Impact on Key Industries
This year, Brazil’s manufacturing sector exports to the US increased by 3.2%, while agro-industrial sales grew by 1.3%. Out of the top ten exported products, six saw an increase in value, including unroasted coffee, semi-finished iron and steel, and aircraft.
According to Amcham Brasil’s report, industrial exports to the US reached a record high of US$16 billion this year. The United States remains Brazil’s primary export destination, surpassing Mercosur (US$11.5 billion), the European Union (US$10.8 billion), and China (US$9.7 billion).
Reactions from State Governors
This week, São Paulo’s governor, Tarcísio de Freitas, acknowledged the negative impact of the proposed tariff. If implemented in August, São Paulo would be the most affected state. On July 11, Governor Tarcísio met with the US ambassador to discuss the tariff’s consequences on Brazil’s economy.
