Washington DC, July 16 -- The United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced a 25 per cent tariff on certain goods imported from Brazil under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, following what it described as a year-long investigation into Brazil's trade practices.

The Brazilian government, headed by President Lula da Silva, hit back at the United States, describing the move as a "lamentable milestone" in bilateral relations and a violation of multilateral trade rules.

"Today, USTR is taking action under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 by imposing a 25% tariff on certain goods of Brazil after extensive public hearings and comments as well as numerous negotiating rounds with Brazilian officials," US Trade Representative Jamie...