The United States Trade Representative determined on June 1, 2026 that Brazil's electronic payment policies are unreasonable and burden U.S. commerce under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. The determination identifies PIX as Brazil's 'national champion' in electronic payments. USTR concluded that BCB's simultaneous role as regulator and operator of the system creates a conflict of interest that disadvantages U.S. electronic payment service providers.
The investigation found that BCB has used its regulatory authority to impose mandates and fee caps that favor PIX over competing services. As responsive action, USTR proposed an additional 25 percent tariff on all goods of Brazil. Exemptions cover beef, coffee, rare earth materials, energy products, aircraft and aircraft parts, agricultural chemicals, and fertilizers.
Written comments on the proposed tariff are due July 1, with a public hearing scheduled at the U.S. International Trade Commission on July 6. USTR faces a statutory deadline of July 15, 2026 to implement responsive action. The Section 301 investigation was initiated at President Trump's direction on July 15, 2025.