Brazil's CNC urges tax parity for imports in MDIC meeting

The Confederação Nacional do Comércio de Bens, Serviços e Turismo (CNC) met with Brazil's Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services (MDIC) on Thursday, March 9, to raise concerns over the lack of tax parity between domestic products and low‑value imports. CNC warned that the provisional measure exempting international shipments up to US$50 from taxes is creating competitive distortions that threaten the country's commerce, industry, jobs and overall competitiveness.

Representatives, including CNC director Helio Dagnoni, highlighted the need for balanced competition and cited Italy’s practice of taxing all imports to protect local production. CNC is preparing studies on the impact of import policies; Geade data showed a 33% drop in international shipments and a 336% rise in import tax revenue after the “blusinhas” tax was introduced. MDIC’s minister expressed concern, pledged ongoing dialogue, and asked CNC to submit its analyses to inform government deliberations and possible legislative alternatives.