Brazil's Federal Public Prosecutor challenges new 32% ethanol gasoline blend

The Federal Public Prosecutor's Office (MPF) filed a civil action in Brazil to suspend the mandatory increase of ethanol in gasoline from 30% to 32% (E32). The suit argues that the change was adopted without specific technical studies confirming safety for the national vehicle fleet, citing risks such as corrosion of metal parts, fuel‑pump failures and injection‑system damage, especially in motorcycles, older and imported cars. MPF seeks an immediate suspension, an independent technical assessment, stricter protocols for future fuel‑mix changes, and 500 million reais in collective moral damages. The 32% blend had been approved by the National Energy Policy Council (CNPE) as a measure to lower dependence on imported gasoline and expand biofuel use. Industry groups, including the Sugar‑cane Industry Union (UNICA), maintain that the adjustment was preceded by a broad consultative process.