Brazil announces trade sanctions against US

The Brazilian government has announced trade sanctions against a variety of American goods in retaliation for illegal US subsidies to cotton farmers.



In a rare move, the World Trade Organisation (WHO) has approved the sanction.



Brazil published a list of 100 US goods that would be subject to import tariffs in 30 days, unless the two governments reach a last-minute accord.



Brazil says while it regrets the sanctions, it is necessary as eight years of litigation had failed to produce a result.



Brazil also says it would raise tariffs on $591 million worth of US products.



The tariff on cars for example would increase from 35 to 50 per cent while the cess on milk powder would see a 20 per cent increase.



Cotton and cotton products would be charged 100 percent import tariff, the highest on the list.



The Office of the US Trade Representative says it’s disappointed by Brazil\'s decision and is calling for a negotiated settlement.