Strengthening the multilateral trade system for green growth and development : Brazil and south Africa within the WTO

Abstract

International trade is frequently influenced by policies aimed at environmental protection and the sustainability of production processes. In this context, Brazil plays a significant role in multilateral discussions on the intersection between environmental issues and international trade. Similarly, South Africa has consistently emphasized the importance of balancing environmental commitments with economic growth. This article analyzes the positions and strategies of Brazil and South Africa within the World Trade Organization (WTO) and other international forums, exploring the broader implications of environmental policies on global trade dynamics. Both countries express concerns regarding unilateral environmental measures, such as the European Union’s (EU’s) Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), arguing these policies could disproportionately impact their economies by restricting market access and increasing export costs. Both advocate for a multilateral approach that considers the economic realities of developing countries and promotes fairer trade. However, their priorities differ in certain aspects. Brazil criticizes agricultural subsidies and opposes the EUDR, claiming the regulation unfairly harms its agricultural sector. Meanwhile, South Africa focuses its criticism on the CBAM’s impact on its industrial exports and emphasizes the need for international support to adapt to new environmental standards.