The “Declaration of Economic Independence,” announced by President Donald Trump in April, marked a new phase in the global protectionist escalation. By imposing a base tariff of 10% on all American imports — with surcharges reaching 44% for countries like China and Taiwan — the U.S. profoundly altered global technology supply chains. At the heart of this geo-economic reorganization, Brazil faces a paradox: unprecedented challenges, but also strategic opportunities.
Although the country was subjected only to the minimum 10% tariff, the consequences are not trivial. Brazilian technology importers face immediate increases in the acquisition costs of U.S. equipment, in addition to indirect effects — since many products include components from heavily tariffed countries. Brazil’s tax structure exacerbates this scenario, creating a cascading effect that can raise the final cost of certain technological devices by more than 70%.
Sectors such as hardware, IT infrastructure, and cloud services face varying pressures. While multinationals deal with squeezed margins or price increases, domestic manufacturers gain relative competitiveness and opportunities to provide more affordable solutions amid global uncertainty.
Surge in cyber attacks
But the risks are not just economic, as the environment of commercial instability favors the growth of digital threats, according to NSFOCUS, a global leader in cybersecurity. The relationship between economic sanctions and increased hacker activity is well-documented — and is already beginning to manifest.
Organizations operating critical infrastructure, such as hospitals, energy grids, and transportation networks, are forced to replace suppliers and quickly redesign their technological ecosystems. This pressured transition creates gaps for cyberattacks. The cost of adaptation may come not just in financial terms, but in vulnerabilities exploited by cybercriminals.
Paths for Brazil
In this new global scenario, Brazil’s technology sector must act swiftly and intelligently. Some key measures include:
- Review supply chains: Identify critical dependencies on suppliers located in highly tariffed countries.
- Encourage selective nationalization: Seek local or regional alternatives for strategic components.
- Strengthen cybersecurity: Invest in robust digital protection practices, especially in essential sectors.
- Monitor diplomatic and tariff scenarios: Adjust strategic decisions based on the evolution of international negotiations.
- Reassess inventories and pricing policies: Minimize immediate impacts and avoid supply disruptions.
Between risk and opportunity, Brazil could emerge more competitive in some areas, especially in American markets that previously relied heavily on China. However, this will require overcoming logistical, fiscal, and technological obstacles, amid historic windows of opportunity for those willing to act strategically.
