Brazil Extends AFRMM Tax Exemption for North and Northeast Ports

The Brazilian Chamber of Deputies is reviewing Project of Complementary Law (PLP) 80/26, which would prolong the exemption of the Additional Freight for Merchant Marine Renewal (AFRMM) for cargoes originating or destined for ports in the North and Northeast until 8 January 2032. The proposal, authored by Deputy Benes Leocádio (União‑RN), argues the extension reduces regional disparities, boosts competitiveness and does not jeopardise the Marine Navy Fund, noting past fiscal renunciation of roughly R$ 2.5 billion and investment gains of over R$ 4 billion in the region.

Separately, the Senate’s Economic Affairs Committee approved a plan to obtain up to €300 million in external credit from the French Development Agency (AFD). The loan will fund the Sustainable Regional Development Transition Project, strengthening the Amazon, Northeast and Central‑West Development Funds (FDA, FDNE, FDCO) for initiatives such as clean transport, renewable energy, tourism, health and education, with €60 million disbursed annually from 2026 to 2030.