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US president targets countries that buy Venezuelan oil at 25% tariff, heightening trade disputes and putting pressure on allies
The international oil market is experiencing moments of uncertainty after the President of the United States, Donald Trump, announced a 25% tariff on products imported from countries that purchase oil or gas from Venezuela.
The measure, which comes into effect on April 2, 2025, aims to financially suffocate the government of Nicolás Maduro, accused by Trump of maintaining ties to criminal organizations and threatening US security. According to the White House, the new policy applies to any country that does business with Venezuelan state-owned oil company PDVSA.
Measure directly affects global oil trade
According to Reuters, the tariff imposed by Trump directly affects China, the main buyer of Venezuelan oil, as well as several countries in Europe and Latin America. The concern is that the US action will lead to an increase in the price of a barrel, since some Venezuelan oil may be withdrawn from the market for fear of sanctions. Experts warn that the move could disrupt logistics chains and create supply bottlenecks for countries that depend on fuel imports.
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Venezuela reacts with indignation and accuses the US of “economic terrorism”
In an official statement, the government of Nicolás Maduro described the decision as “arbitrary, illegal and desperate.” Venezuela, which already faces a severe trade blockade, depends on oil sales as its main source of income. source of income. The new tariff is seen by Caracas as an attempt to destabilize the country economically and politically. According to an analysis published in CNN Brasil, the impact could be severe, especially because buyers will have to choose between continuing to buy Venezuelan oil and suffering sanctions, or breaking off relations with Caracas.
Spain and China criticize tariff and consider response
In Europe, the Spanish government expressed “deep concern” about the measure, since companies in the country have existing contracts with Venezuelan suppliers. Cadena SER reported that Madrid may seek support from the European Union to respond diplomatically to the US. China, according to MarketWatch, studies forms to circumvent the tariff or restructure its policy on purchasing oil from Latin America. Beijing sees the move as a direct provocation and, according to analysts, may retaliate with trade actions against the United States itself.
Tension in the energy sector and risk of new oil crisis
Trump's move has rekindled fears of a new crisis in the global oil market. As pressure mounts on Venezuela's buying countries, global oil volumes could fall, putting upward pressure on prices. In addition, instability The diplomatic tension generated by US policy could harm bilateral agreements and jeopardize the stability of emerging markets. Energy sector sources consulted by Reuters indicate that the reaction of major buyers will be decisive in the coming months and could force a redesign of global oil export routes.
