United States of America: Trade Representative announced investigation into Brazil’s alleged unfair trade practices including intellectual property protection 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 intellectual property protection. 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 will also examine concerns that Brazil failed to provide adequate and effective protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights, thereby harming American workers and businesses in innovation and creativity-driven sectors.