Brazil Ups Tariffs On China, Argentina, Indonesia Glass Goods

BRASILIA (Dow Jones)--Brazil's government Tuesday raised tariffs on select glass goods imported from China, Argentina and Indonesia, according to an anti-dumping measure published in the Brazilian federal register.

The decision, ordered by the government's Camex chamber of foreign commerce, imposes a surcharge on glass goods from China of $1.70 per kilogram. Glass goods from Argentina will receive a surcharge of $0.37 per kilogram, and goods from Indonesia will be charged $0.15 per kilogram.

The measure, which was taken at the request of the Brazilian glass industry association, Abividro, will be applied to select kitchen items such as dishes, bowls and cooking ware.

The move comes as Brazil's government has sought methods to slow the impact of an appreciated local currency on the country's industry. Brazil's currency, the real, has gained more than 30% against the dollar over the past 24 months under the influence of heavy incoming foreign investment into the country's economy.

Brazilian authorities in October raised taxes on certain types of foreign investment in bonds and derivatives. They recently indicated they also would be open to raising taxes on some imports to protect local industry.

-By Gerald Jeffris, Dow Jones Newswires; (5561) 3335-0832,