Lula and Trump Meet in Malaysia: Brazil and the U.S. Re-open Dialogue on Trade Tariffs and Bilateral Cooperation

• 

  Newsroom

• October 26, 2025

• Newsroom

Lula and Trump Meet in Malaysia: Brazil and the U.S. Re-open Dialogue on Trade Tariffs and Bilateral Cooperation

On Sunday, October 26, 2025, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva met with U.S. President Donald J. Trump in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on the sidelines of the 47th Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The meeting lasted approximately 50 minutes and marked a significant step forward in bilateral relations between Brazil and the United States.

During the meeting, President Lula emphasized that “there is no reason for conflict between Brazil and the United States,” and formally requested the immediate suspension of the 50 % tariff recently imposed by the U.S. on Brazilian exports, pending the outcome of bilateral negotiations. In July, President Trump introduced the tariff hike following a period of heightened trade and regulatory tension.

President Lula stated:

“Brazil seeks an extraordinary relationship with the United States. When two presidents sit down together, each presenting their views and challenges, the natural tendency is to move toward agreement.”

Immediately following the meeting, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira spoke to the press affirming that President Trump has instructed his team to initiate negotiations immediately. Vieira described the meeting as “very positive” and noted that “the outcome is excellent,” adding that both countries had signed off on launching the process of bilateral talks in the coming hours.

President Trump expressed optimism about the path ahead, noting that both nations “have a lot to offer one another” and that a “very good relationship” lies ahead.

The discussion included participation by Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira (Brazil) and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The two governments will establish a negotiation schedule and define the sectors subject to review and adjustment.

In addition to trade matters, the meeting featured cordial exchanges between the leaders, with President Trump publicly acknowledging his admiration for President Lula’s political career and personal trajectory.

The Brazilian Government also confirmed the intention of the United States to consider a future visit to Brazil, with details pending formalization. Likewise, President Lula accepted an invitation to travel to the U.S., reinforcing the new momentum in bilateral engagement.

About this meeting
This meeting underscores a renewed commitment to dialogue between Brazil and the United States, aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting cooperation across trade, industry and diplomacy. It signals a willingness by both sides to address contentious issues through negotiation rather than unilateral action.