Defesa comercial como estratégia o Brasil diante do unilateralismo e do novo protecionismo global

Abstract

The current global landscape, characterized by unilateralism and new protectionism has intensified the diversion of trade flows and
increased pressure on more open markets. In this context, trade defense  assumes a strategic role, not only protecting domestic industry against unfair practices but also managing risks in an increasingly fragmented international trade environment. Brazil has frequently relied on trade defense measures. According to data from the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services (MDIC), the demand for anti-dumping proceedings has increased, with 2024 recording the highest number of requests for the initiation of investigations in the past five years. In addition, additional tools, such as anti-circumvention reviews and nonpreferential origin investigations, are essential to prevent the evasion of measures, identify fraud, and ensure the effectiveness of existing
protections. To maximize their impact, trade defense instruments should be integrated into broader industrial policies, strengthening national competitiveness and consolidating a strategic stance in the face of an uncertain and dynamic global trading system. On the other hand, there has been less use of countervailing and safeguard measures, which have been applied more frequently by some of Brazil’s main trading partners, such as China, the European Union, and the United States.