India And Brazil Seek To Transform Trade Challenges Into Opportunities: Brazilian Envoy On US Tariffs

In a detailed interview with IANS, Brazil’s Ambassador to India, Kenneth Felix Haczynski Da Nobrega, shared insights on how India and Brazil are responding to recent global trade uncertainties, particularly the 50% tariffs imposed by the US on both countries.

He emphasised that despite such challenges, both nations are committed to transforming obstacles into opportunities to deepen their bilateral relationship.

Da Nobrega referenced a recent phone call between Brazilian President Lula and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where the leaders focused on charting a long-term strategic roadmap, aiming to sustain and expand their partnership in the face of geopolitical shifts.

Highlighting the burgeoning economic engagement, Da Nobrega revealed that over the past two years, Brazil has sent 77 business missions to India, while India has dispatched more than 40 missions to Brazil.

This robust business interaction reflects the growing mutual interest, with planned cooperation spanning defence, energy, pharmaceuticals, digital public infrastructure (DPIs), and agriculture.

Agricultural & Technological Cooperation

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of bilateral ties. Brazil stands ready to export staples like pulses and edible oils to India, contributing to food security.

Beyond trade, the two countries are exploring technological collaboration, including the joint venture between India’s IFCO and a Brazilian company to produce advanced nano fertilisers, enhancing productivity while reducing inputs.

Da Nobrega acknowledged that US tariffs affect Brazil’s trade with a traditional partner.

However, he emphasised the strong people-to-people, cultural, and business ties between Brazil and the US, which he believes will endure despite economic hurdles.

Brazil remains committed to multilateralism and international law, having formally objected to the US’s unilateral tariff measures at the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Defence industry collaboration is growing steadily, with multiple high-level missions exchanged recently.

Brazilian aerospace company Embraer has established a full office in New Delhi and is promoting its KC-390 Millennium Air Defence Aircraft, including potential local production aligned with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Looking ahead, Da Nobrega pointed to energy (both fossil fuels and renewables), defence, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and digital infrastructure as key sectors defining future India-Brazil relations.

He also lauded PM Modi’s historic state visit to Brazil during the BRICS Summit as a pivotal moment that strengthened bilateral ties through a substantial joint statement.

While Brazil remains open to negotiations with the US, Da Nobrega clarified that sovereignty is non-negotiable. The focus remains on protecting Brazil’s interests while engaging pragmatically with global partners.

This interview underscores the determination of India and Brazil to build resilient, multifaceted ties that leverage both countries’ strengths, despite the headwinds posed by evolving global trade dynamics.

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