Brazil's Receita Federal preserves tax benefits for Zona Franca de Manaus

The Brazilian tax authority initially issued Nota Cosit/Sutri/RFB № 141/2026, interpreting that the zero PIS/Cofins rate for goods destined to the Zona Franca de Manaus (ZFM) would be reduced linearly under Complementary Law 224/2025. This reading affected companies both inside the free‑trade zone and those selling to it, prompting a lawsuit by the Federação das Indústrias do Estado do Amazonas (FIEAM). A federal court in Amazonas suspended the measure, blocking any tax assessments based on the new guidance.

Days later, the Receita Federal reversed its stance with Nota Cosit/Sutri/RFB № 207 issued on 14 July 2026. After a consultation from the Confederação Nacional da Indústria (CNI), the agency confirmed that the zero‑rate provision of Law 10.996/2004 remains unaffected by the linear reduction and aligns with established Supreme Court and Superior Court of Justice jurisprudence. Vice‑governor Serafim Corrêa praised the decision, stating, “Vitória do Amazonas. A Receita Federal consolida um entendimento alinhado à jurisprudência e ao tratamento constitucional assegurado à Zona Franca de Manaus,” highlighting its importance for legal certainty, investment, and job protection in the Amazon region.