Embraer Exempted from Trump Tariffs Protecting US Brazil Aerospace Trade

Embraer Escapes Trump’s Tariffs On Brazil: Strategic Reprieve for Global Aerospace Industry

In July 2025, the Trump administration made a pivotal decision to exempt Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer from proposed 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports. This move, formalized through Executive Order 14456, came amid broader trade tensions between the United States and Brazil. The exemption not only shielded Embraer from significant financial losses but also underscored the strategic importance of civil aviation in global economic diplomacy.

Embraer, Brazil’s aerospace crown jewel and the world’s third-largest civil aircraft producer, plays a critical role in the U.S. aviation market. With nearly half of its commercial jets and a majority of executive jets delivered to U.S. carriers, the exemption was viewed as a necessary measure to prevent disruption in the global supply chain. The decision followed months of lobbying by Brazilian officials and U.S. airlines, highlighting the interdependent nature of the aerospace industry.

This article explores the background, economic implications, recent developments, and broader geopolitical context surrounding Embraer’s tariff exemption. It also examines how this decision fits into the larger narrative of U.S.-Brazil trade relations and the global aerospace market.

Background: Embraer’s Global Position and U.S. Trade Tensions

Embraer holds a unique position in the aviation sector. As Brazil’s largest high-tech exporter, it has built a reputation for producing efficient regional jets, particularly the E175, which dominates the U.S. regional airline market. As of Q2 2025, Embraer reported a record $29.7 billion order backlog, driven by strong demand from North American and European carriers.

The Trump administration’s tariff threats emerged in early 2025, amid escalating political tensions with Brazil. These included disagreements over environmental policy, economic alignment, and the prosecution of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The proposed tariffs were seen as both a punitive and strategic maneuver, targeting key Brazilian exports like steel, agriculture, and potentially aerospace.

However, the final tariff order issued on July 30, 2025, specifically exempted civil aircraft, engines, parts, and subassemblies. This exemption was interpreted as a recognition of the mutual economic benefits derived from aerospace trade and a desire to avoid self-inflicted harm to U.S. airlines reliant on Embraer jets.

Embraer’s Market Share and U.S. Dependence

Embraer’s commercial success is deeply tied to the U.S. market. Approximately 45% of its commercial aircraft and 70% of its executive jets are sold to American buyers. SkyWest Airlines alone accounts for a substantial portion of Embraer’s E175 backlog, with over 76 units on order, including 60 new units secured during the 2025 Paris Air Show.

The E175 is particularly important because it is one of the few regional jets that complies with U.S. scope clause agreements, which limit aircraft size for regional carriers. This makes Embraer a critical supplier for airlines like SkyWest, Republic Airways, and American Eagle.

Had the 50% tariff been applied, it would have added an estimated $9 million to the cost of each E175 aircraft. This would have jeopardized billions in future sales and potentially led to job cuts both in Brazil and the U.S. aviation sector.

“The exemption confirms the strategic importance of Embraer’s activities for the Brazilian and U.S. economies.”, Francisco Gomes Neto, CEO of Embraer

Tariff Policy and Executive Action

Executive Order 14456, enacted on August 6, 2025, provided the legal framework for the tariff exemption. While the order imposed a 50% tariff on a broad range of Brazilian imports, it specifically excluded civil aircraft and associated components. This decision followed extensive consultations between U.S. trade officials and stakeholders in the airline industry.

The exemption was also influenced by concerns over inflation and supply chain stability. With U.S. airlines already facing delivery delays from Boeing and Airbus, adding barriers to Embraer imports risked further operational disruptions.

Despite the exemption, a 10% tariff from an earlier April 2025 order remains in effect. Embraer continues to advocate for a complete rollback of tariffs, arguing that zero-tariff policies are essential for maintaining competitiveness in the global market.

Recent Developments: Diplomatic and Corporate Responses

The Brazilian government played a proactive role in securing the exemption. Vice President Geraldo Alckmin led negotiations with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, emphasizing the strategic nature of Embraer and the potential ripple effects of tariffs on the broader economy.

In parallel, U.S. airlines lobbied for the exemption, warning that tariffs would force them to delay or cancel aircraft deliveries. SkyWest, in particular, indicated that tariffs would disrupt fleet renewal plans and reduce regional connectivity in underserved markets.

Following the exemption announcement, Embraer’s stock rose by 10%, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s ability to navigate geopolitical risks. The exemption also allowed Embraer to maintain its production schedule and avoid costly supply chain adjustments.

Impact on Orders and Deliveries

Embraer’s Q2 2025 results showcased the company’s resilience. The $29.7 billion backlog includes major orders from SkyWest (60 E175s) and Scandinavian Airlines (45 E195-E2s). These orders reaffirm Embraer’s position as a key player in the regional jet segment.

The exemption ensured that these orders would proceed without additional financial burdens, preserving jobs and production timelines. It also reinforced Embraer’s credibility as a reliable supplier amid global uncertainties.

Analysts at JP Morgan noted that the exemption reduced delivery risks and could drive Embraer’s stock to record highs, particularly if the company continues to secure new contracts in North America and Europe.

“All parties are motivated to work together on the tariff issue.”, Wade Steel, Chief Commercial Officer, SkyWest Airlines

Global and Industry Context: Broader Implications

The Embraer exemption illustrates the complexities of modern trade policy, where strategic industries like aerospace are often shielded from broader protectionist measures. The decision reflects a balancing act between economic nationalism and global interdependence.

While Embraer was spared, other Brazilian sectors, such as steel and agriculture, remain subject to high tariffs. This selective approach suggests that the U.S. administration is prioritizing industries with high domestic value chains and strategic importance.

From a global perspective, the exemption reinforces the need for stable trade frameworks in high-tech sectors. Aerospace manufacturing relies on intricate international supply chains, and disruptions in one region can have cascading effects worldwide.

Competitive Dynamics in Aerospace

Embraer’s ability to maintain momentum despite trade headwinds positions it well against competitors like Airbus and Boeing. While Boeing has focused on larger aircraft, and Airbus on narrow-body jets, Embraer continues to dominate the sub-100-seat segment.

The tariff exemption allows Embraer to continue expanding its market share in North America, especially as regional carriers seek fuel-efficient, scope-compliant aircraft. The E175 and E195-E2 remain attractive options for airlines seeking operational flexibility.

Looking ahead, Embraer’s continued success will depend on its ability to navigate geopolitical risks, innovate in sustainable aviation, and maintain strong relationships with key markets like the U.S. and Europe.

Conclusion

Embraer’s exemption from Trump’s 50% tariffs marks a significant moment in U.S.-Brazil trade relations. It reflects the strategic importance of the aerospace sector and the mutual benefits derived from cross-border collaboration. The decision helped avoid billions in potential losses, preserved vital airline operations, and reinforced Embraer’s role as a global aviation leader.

As trade tensions persist in other sectors, the Embraer case offers a blueprint for how diplomacy, industry lobbying, and economic pragmatism can converge to protect strategic industries. Moving forward, stakeholders will need to remain vigilant and proactive in preserving the stability of global supply chains in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.

FAQ

Why was Embraer exempted from the 50% tariffs?
Civil aircraft and related components were deemed strategically important to U.S. interests, particularly due to their role in domestic airline operations and supply chain stability.

What would have been the impact if the tariffs were applied?
Each Embraer E175 aircraft would have incurred an additional $9 million in costs, risking up to $3.6 billion in losses by 2030 and disrupting airline fleet plans.

Is Embraer still subject to any tariffs?
Yes, a 10% tariff from April 2025 remains in effect, although Embraer continues to advocate for a full rollback to zero tariffs.

Sources

Aviation Week, iNews Zoom Bangla, White House, GHY, AeroTime, FlightPlan, Economic Times, Korea Herald