President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) signed a provisional measure eliminating the import tax on online purchases up to US$50 [1].
The move targets the cost of small-value imports, commonly referred to as the "taxa das blusinhas." By removing this financial barrier, the Brazilian government aims to reduce the final price of goods for consumers and simplify the existing import regulations.
The measure removes a 20% import tax [1] that previously applied to low-value international orders. This specific tax bracket had become a point of contention for frequent users of global e-commerce platforms who purchase inexpensive apparel and electronics.
According to the provisional measure, the tax removal became effective on Wednesday, May 13, 2024 [1]. The decision allows for a more streamlined process for individuals receiving small packages from abroad, a shift that aligns with efforts to make international digital trade more accessible to the general public.
Government officials said the change is intended to provide immediate relief to the purchasing power of citizens. The elimination of the 20% fee [1] applies specifically to the threshold of US$50, maintaining the current structure for higher-value imports.
This policy change follows a period of regulatory adjustments regarding how Brazil taxes foreign e-commerce entities. The provisional measure acts as a direct intervention to lower the cost of entry for small-scale international shopping.
“President Lula signed a provisional measure that eliminates the 20% import tax on online purchases up to US$50.”
This policy shift represents a strategic pivot to balance consumer affordability with trade regulation. By removing the 20% tax on low-value goods, the Brazilian government is reducing the friction of cross-border e-commerce, which may increase the volume of small imports while potentially challenging local retailers who compete with low-cost international sellers.
