Paul Krugman, the 2008 Nobel laureate in Economics, has strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to impose a 50% tariff on Brazilian exports. Krugman described the tariff as "malignant," "megalomaniac," and lacking economic justification, asserting that the move serves political purposes rather than legitimate trade concerns. He suggested that the tariff could be grounds for Trump's impeachment. The tariffs were reportedly imposed in response to Brazil's treatment of its former president Jair Bolsonaro, indicating personal and political motivations behind the trade measure. Economic analyses warn that the tariffs could have a substantial impact on Brazil's economy, potentially reducing its GDP by approximately R$19.2 billion and resulting in the loss of around 110,000 jobs. Brazilian exports might decline by R$52 billion and imports by R$33 billion, with key sectors such as industry and agriculture expected to be most affected. The tariffs also threaten critical sectors including oil, steel, and aerospace. Observers note that Trump's use of punitive tariffs appears to be part of a broader authoritarian agenda and may benefit certain domestic interests, including Big Tech. The international community has expressed concern over the precedent set by targeting Brazil for political reasons under the guise of trade policy.