Brazil Sees Surge in International Shipments After Tax Removal

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Brazil Sees Surge in International Shipments After Tax Removal

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Brazil has experienced a significant increase in international shipments, particularly in the state of Ceará, after the federal import tax on low-value goods was eliminated. Data indicates that the volume of small-value international orders in Ceará surged by 64.35% between April and June 2026. In April, the last month the 20% tariff was in effect, there were 524,500 such orders, which then jumped to 862,000 in June.

Nationally, the removal of this tax, often referred to as the “taxa das blusinhas” (little-blouse tax), has had a dramatic effect on consumer behavior. In June 2026, the first full month without the levy, Brazil received 28.36 million international packages, marking a 118% increase from the 13.02 million recorded in June 2025. This also represents a 72% rise compared to April 2026 volumes.

The 20% federal import duty on cross-border purchases of up to $50 was revoked by a provisional measure signed by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in mid-May 2026. This tax had been introduced in August 2024 as part of Brazil’s “Remessa Conforme” program, aimed at regulating and streamlining international e-commerce imports. While the federal import tax has been removed for shipments under $50, these purchases are still subject to a state-level Goods and Services Tax (ICMS), which typically ranges from 17% to 20%, along with other minor federal contributions.

The “Remessa Conforme” program, launched in August 2023, is a voluntary compliance initiative by the Brazilian Federal Revenue that certifies e-commerce companies adhering to specific import rules, allowing for upfront payment of taxes at the time of purchase. The recent change has been welcomed by consumers, especially those with lower incomes, as it provides cheaper access to global e-commerce. However, domestic retailers have expressed concerns about the impact of tax-free imports on local industry and employment. The provisional measure to eliminate the tax still requires congressional approval to remain permanently in force.

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