Lula and Trump to discuss organized crime and tariffs at White House

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva plans to discuss organized crime and tariffs with U.S. President Donald Trump, according to Brazil’s finance minister.

The meeting, scheduled for Thursday at the White House, follows tensions after the Trump administration imposed a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods.

Lula defended Brazil's sovereignty, leading to a loosening of tariffs.

The two leaders have been mending relations since September.

A key issue is the U.S. considering designating Brazil’s largest criminal factions as foreign terrorist organizations.

Brazil also wants to develop its rare earth deposits domestically, rather than just exporting raw materials.