Exports from Minas Gerais Plummet After US Tariffs. Cities Like Confins and Sete Lagoas Face Contraction and Seek New Markets.
US Tariffs Weaken Exports from Minas Gerais and Threaten Local Economy
The main exporting cities in Minas Gerais are facing one of the biggest trade crises of the last decade due to the US tariffs.
In the last two months, the new tariffs imposed by the United States (US) have slashed Minas Gerais exports by up to 100%, according to recent sector data. Confins, Sete Lagoas, Araxá, and Belo Horizonte were the most affected cities.
The direct impact on the regional economy is severe, affecting iron, steel, and machinery industries — sectors that sustain thousands of jobs.
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The so-called “US tariffs” came into effect in August 2025, altering the dynamics of business between the two countries. The measure, according to the US government, aims to “protect domestic production,” but has left Minas exporters on alert.
Meanwhile, local companies and municipalities are trying to respond by betting on the internal market and diversifying trading partners.
Confins Suffers the Biggest Impact, With a Drop Close to 100%
Among the affected municipalities, Confins registered the most significant drop. Practically all exports destined for the US have been suspended.
According to industry sources, the main reason lies in the rise of logistical costs combined with the new US taxation, which made Minas products less competitive.
Sete Lagoas and Belo Horizonte also saw their international sales plummet. Local industries, especially in iron, steel, and machinery, are operating below capacity. Some companies have already announced collective vacations and temporary layoffs to contain losses.
Minas Cities Seek New Directions for Business
In light of the adverse scenario, municipalities and business associations in Minas Gerais are seeking strategic solutions.
One of the bets is on increasing exports to South American countries, especially Argentina, which has been increasing purchases of vehicles and auto parts produced in Minas territory.
According to sector data, the auto parts industry in Minas Gerais showed 6% growth between January and August 2025, double what was expected.
Argentina was responsible for more than half of the purchases, boosting positive performance even amid the crisis with the US.
This movement reinforces a trend: the diversification of commercial destinations as an alternative to the US market. Thus, Minas seeks to reduce dependency on a single economic partner and ensure greater stability for local businesses.
Record Harvest Strengthens Minas Economy Amid Crisis
Despite the negative scenario in foreign trade with the US, the Minas agribusiness brings good news for the state economy.
The first estimate of the 2025/26 harvest indicates a record yield of 18.16 million tons, an increase of 1.1% compared to the previous cycle, according to Conab (National Supply Company).
The increase is driven by a 3.2% rise in planted area, even with a 2.1% decrease in average productivity.
Corn is expected to grow by 6.5%, while soybeans are projected to decline by 1.5%. Beans are expected to see a contraction of 6%. The positive highlight is cotton, whose production is expected to increase by an impressive 22.3%.
These numbers show that although the US tariffs have severely affected the industry, the Minas countryside continues to react, ensuring balance in the state’s economic balance.
Prospects for the Economy of Minas Gerais
Experts assess that the impact of US tariffs may extend over the coming months, requiring swift responses from productive sectors.
The challenge is to regain lost competitiveness due to the tariffs, while also expanding partnerships with other countries and stimulating internal consumption.
On the other hand, strong agricultural performance and the gradual recovery of the automotive industry maintain optimism among some analysts. “The crisis with the US is serious, but it could accelerate commercial independence for Minas,” commented an economist interviewed by the report.
Thus, the scenario in Minas Gerais reflects a new phase of adaptation and resilience in the Brazilian economy.
With planning, innovation, and the opening of new markets, the state seeks to turn the crisis into an opportunity — and prove, once again, its strength in the field of international business.

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