Brazil’s Wood Manufacturers Shed 4,000 Jobs After U.S. 50% Tariff

Overview

• An Abimci survey through September 15 reports 4,000 dismissals, 5,500 workers on collective vacation, and 1,100 contracts temporarily suspended.
• Exports of key processed-wood products to the United States fell 35% to 50% in August versus July following the 50% tariff imposed by President Donald Trump that took effect in early August.
• Companies report canceled contracts and shipments since the July announcement, along with a drop in new contract signings.
• The sector employs about 180,000 people in Brazil, with the U.S. taking roughly half of its exports and some product lines fully dependent on that market.
• Abimci warns a further 4,500 jobs could be lost within 60 days, with impacts concentrated in Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul, often in smaller municipalities.