Lula to Trump: US Investment Gap in Brazil Filled by ChinaDuring a press conference at the Brazilian Embassy in Washington, DC, on May 7, 2026, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva revealed a key point from his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House. Lula stated he directly informed Trump that the United States had ceased investing in Brazil, a void that has been filled by China.
"I told him that the US stopped investing in Brazil and that space was occupied by China," Lula said, citing specific examples. He pointed to international bids for major infrastructure projects, such as highways and railways, where Chinese companies are now the primary or sole participants.
The discussion also touched on broader trade dynamics. Lula mentioned the Mercosul-European Union agreement and acknowledged the historical significance of the United States as Brazil's largest trading partner. The meeting highlighted the shifting landscape of international investment and trade partnerships in the region.