We Pay the Tariffs, American Small Business Importers React to 301 Tariffs on Brazi

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. – July 16, 2026 – WASHINGTON, D.C. Following the Administration’s announcement of new Section 301 tariffs of 25% on imports from Brazil, Dan Anthony, Executive Director of We Pay the Tariffs, a grassroots coalition of nearly 1,200 small businesses, released the following statement:

“American small businesses have borne the brunt of every recent tariff action, and these new tariffs on imports from Brazil will be no different. These tariffs are a blunt tool with a weak connection between the practices at issue and the American companies that will bear the costs. Businesses buying everyday products from Brazil will now pay new tariffs because of disputes over digital payment rules and other policies they have nothing to do with.”

“Small businesses account for 97% of American importers, yet they have the least ability to influence foreign governments to change their policies, which is the stated goal of Section 301. When it comes to tariffs, small businesses struggle to get their own government to listen. These costs will fall hardest on American small business owners, who can see years of hard work to build their dream, create good jobs, and contribute to their communities wiped out very quickly.”

What The New Brazil Tariffs Could Cost American Businesses

The 25% tariff on Brazilian imports will quickly turn into an unsustainable expense for small businesses. According to data from Trade Partnership Worldwide, American companies paid over $4.5 billion in additional tariffs from April 2025 to May 2026 as a result of IEEPA, Section 232, and Section 122 tariffs. Tariff costs peaked around $625 million in October 2025, when the Brazil-specific IEEPA tariffs were in full effect. Even after certain exemptions were granted, extra tariffs on imports from Brazil averaged $400 million per month from November 2025 to January 2026. The United States could return to these levels between these 25% Brazil 301 remedies, 12.5% forced labor 301 remedies, and potential “structural excess capacity” 301 remedies of an undetermined amount, and the continuation or even expansion of Section 232 tariffs.

About We Pay the Tariffs

We Pay the Tariffs is a grassroots coalition of nearly 1,200 small businesses that advocate against tariffs. Members include restaurants, manufacturers, retailers, game companies, importers, and other enterprises from every U.S. region. For more information: www.wepaythetariffs.com