Lula downplays impact of U.S. tariffs on Brazilian economy

RIO DE JANEIRO, Dec. 24 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Tuesday that 2025 is "ending well" for Brazil, noting that U.S. tariff hikes on Brazilian goods turned out to be "irrelevant" to the nation's economy.

"The year is ending well. Food prices are falling, and people are once again able to afford things that had become more expensive. Even the tariffs imposed by the United States on Brazil ended up being irrelevant," said Lula while addressing the domestic situation and the country's relations with Washington.

Lula stressed that Brazil's economy showed adaptability and resilience in the face of Washington's new trade policies and the geopolitical and trade tensions they have created.

On the domestic front, Lula highlighted the gradual improvement in the population's purchasing power, particularly following the drop in the price of food, a key issue for lower-income families.

According to Lula, this process is contributing to a more positive perception of Brazil's economic and social situation as the year draws to a close. ■