What is ApexBrasil's rescue plan and who can apply?

ApexBrasil, Brazil's trade and investment promotion agency, announced a R$ 210 million (approx. USD 38 million) support program for Brazilian exporters hit by the new US tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump. The plan covers 35 sectors and aims to reach 5,300 of the 5,600 companies affected. Registrations open Wednesday, August 12, on the ApexBrasil website.

The funds are not loans — no interest or fees will be charged. Each application is assessed individually, with tailored support assigned to each company.

What can the money be used for?

  • Specialized trade consultancies
  • Export grants (bolsas de exportação)
  • Participation in international trade fairs
  • Business meetings and missions abroad
  • Fee waivers for direct trade-promotion events

Which new markets is ApexBrasil targeting?

The agency highlighted Canada, Mexico, Germany, Turkey, South Africa, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Singapore, India and China as priority alternative destinations. According to ApexBrasil, 72% of the 2,400 companies it currently supports that sell to the US already export to at least one additional market — a strong base to build on.

How bad are the US tariffs on Brazilian goods?

The US has imposed two overlapping levies on Brazilian products: a 25% tariff following an investigation into alleged unfair trade practices, and a 12.5% surcharge applied to more than 60 US trade partners linked to forced-labour concerns. When both apply to the same product, the combined rate reaches 37.5%. Brazil's Ministry of Development (MDIC) says 23.1% of Brazilian exports to the US are subject to these new surcharges, and another 24.2% face sectoral tariffs under Section 232. However, about 52.7% of Brazilian exports — including coffee, meat, aircraft, orange juice and pulp — are exempt from both sets of tariffs.

How long does the program last?

The plan runs for 12 months. ApexBrasil president Laudemir Müller stressed the goal is not to recoup the R$ 210 million but to permanently strengthen Brazilian companies' export capabilities.

Key Facts:
  • R$ 210 million in non-repayable support announced on August 11, 2026
  • 35 sectors covered; up to 5,300 companies eligible
  • Registrations open August 12 on the ApexBrasil website
  • 11 alternative markets identified, including Canada, Germany and China
  • Combined US tariff rate can reach 37.5% on some Brazilian products
  • 52.7% of Brazilian exports to the US remain exempt from new tariffs