Brazil's ‘blusinhas’ import tax yields record R$2.13 bn before being scrapped

The federal government collected R$ 2.13 billion from the import tax on small‑value international parcels (the “blusinhas” tax) between January and mid‑May 2026, a 15.4% increase over the same period in 2025 when R$ 1.84 billion was gathered. The tax, introduced in August 2024 with a 20% levy on shipments up to US$ 50, was intended to protect domestic textile, clothing and footwear industries. President Luiz Inácio Lula, who signed the measure, later described it as “irrational.”

The tax was revoked in May 2026 amid electoral pressure and consumer criticism, eliminating the federal charge on qualifying parcels. However, states continue to apply the ICMS, with rates ranging from 17% to 20% depending on the jurisdiction, keeping some tax burden on cross‑border e‑commerce. The revocation immediately lowered prices on platforms such as Shein, Shopee and AliExpress, while industry groups now press for new protective mechanisms.