United States of America: Trade Representative announced investigation into Brazil’s alleged unfair trade practices including its content moderation policies

On 15 July 2025, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) initiated a Section 301 investigation into Brazil’s trade practices, focusing on digital trade and electronic payment services. Section 301 investigations under the Trade Act of 1974, allow the USTR to examine whether a foreign country’s practices are unfair or violate US trade agreement rights. The investigation will assess whether Brazil’s policies are unreasonable, discriminatory, or restrict US commerce. It examines allegations that Brazil retaliates against US companies, including social media and payment service providers, for failing to censor political speech or by restricting their ability to operate in the country.