Export to Brazil? Information which you need to know

Overview of Brazil

Export to Brazil Information. As the Western Hemisphere’s second-biggest economy and population hub—US $2.19 trillion GDP in 2024 and 203 million people—Brazil offers vast business opportunities.

In recent years, Brazil has encountered political instability, a decline in sovereign credit ratings, recession, and sluggish consumer demand in several retail segments. However, government-driven market-oriented reforms bolstered confidence in investment, and the economy officially exited recession by 2017 (though this recovery reference applies historically, not to the current situation).

Today, economic growth has returned—real GDP expanded by about 3.4 % in 2024, driven by strong consumption, robust labour markets, and investment rebound. The IMF forecasts growth of around 2.3 % for 2025, with medium‑term projections rising to 2.5 % supported by structural reforms and energy production expansion

Brazil’s Q2 2025 economy grew 0.4 % quarter-over-quarter, surpassing forecasts despite a slowdown from Q1 (which posted 1.3 %); on an annual basis, growth reached 2.2 %

Brazil’s Business Culture

When conducting international trade with Brazil, transactions are generally settled in US dollars.

Portuguese is the primary language for negotiations. While English is increasingly understood in business circles, having an interpreter or bilingual local contact is strongly advised to avoid misunderstandings.

Personal connections are highly valued in Brazil and often play a decisive role in business success. It is advisable to attend meetings with a trusted local contact and ensure that initial correspondence is in Portuguese or clear English.

For business meetings, the dress code is smart but semi-informal. Titles are important in Brazilian business culture. When addressing counterparts, use professional titles (e.g., Professor, Doctor) where appropriate, or otherwise “Senhor” (Mr.) or “Senhora” (Mrs.) plus the first name—for example, Sr. Carlos or Sra. Julia.

One important nuance in Brazilian business culture is communication style. People often avoid saying a direct “no.” This does not necessarily indicate agreement, but rather reflects a polite, non-confrontational approach. Reading between the lines and following up carefully is essential for clarity in negotiations.

Setting up in Brazil

If you’re considering exporting to Brazil, experts recommend establishing a local presence through an agent/distributor, a representative office, or a joint venture partnership to ensure the maintenance and servicing of business contacts.

Using agents enjoys great popularity in Brazil, partly due to the wide availability of experienced and reputable sales agents. New exporters, especially smaller companies, often prefer agents because they offer a cost-effective way to enter the market and facilitate access to potential buyers. The crucial task is identifying an agent equipped with the necessary contacts and experience to match your product.

Forming a joint venture partnership with a local Brazilian company has grown increasingly popular. These partnerships are appealing because they allow for shared costs and risks. Brazilian partners can contribute valuable local market insight, expertise, and familiarity with the Brazilian business landscape. Before establishing such a partnership, seeking legal advice is recommended.

Alternatively, you can set up a representative office in Brazil, although this option can be expensive. It suits exporters wanting a high degree of control over their products and after-sales service or those dealing with commercially sensitive intellectual property.

Banking and Finance

In Brazil, several commercial banks and financial institutions are controlled by the Federal State, with the largest state-owned banks being Banco do Brasil and Caixa Economica Federal.

The private financial sector includes commercial banks, multiple service banks, investment banks, credit cooperatives and others.

Brazil Tariffs and Regulations

Brazilian Tariffs and duty rates are constantly revised and are subject to change without notice. For further information, please visit the:

Tariffs and non-tariff barriers

Tariff

Imports are subject to a number of taxes and fees in Brazil, which are usually paid during the customs clearance process. There are three taxes that account for the bulk of import costs: the Import Duty (II), the Industrialized Product tax (IPI) and the Merchandise and Service Circulation tax (ICMS). In addition to these taxes, several smaller taxes and fees apply to imports. Note that most taxes are calculated on a cumulative basis.

All products exported to Brazil are taxed by an import tax (unless otherwise specifically exempting the product from such payment). The key points to note about the import tax include:

It is levied on the customs value.
The customs value is generally assessed based on the transaction value, and that coincides with the cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value.
The import tax rate is selective and depends on the product’s tariff classification.

Brazil and its Southern Common Market (Mercosul) partners, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, implemented the Mercosul Common External Tariff (CET) on January 1, 1995. Venezuela became a full member of Mercosul in 2012. Each country maintains a separate exception list of items for tariffs.

Non-tariff barriers

Foreign exporters and Brazilian importers must register with the Foreign Trade Secretariat (SECEX)

Brazilian authorities might request additional documentation depending on the product. For instance, products potentially affecting the human body, such as pharmaceuticals, vitamins, cosmetics, and medical equipment/devices, fall under the purview of the Ministry of Health. To sell these products in the Brazilian market, the foreign company must either set up a local manufacturing unit or office in Brazil or appoint a Brazilian distributor who has authorisation from the local authorities to import and distribute medical products. Moreover, companies must register these products with the Brazilian Ministry of Health, a procedure known for its complexity and lengthy duration.

Product certification, labelling and packaging

Label requirements differ based on the product category. Food, beverages, agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics have special labelling rules, often requiring approval from regulatory bodies.

Labels must clearly display information regarding the product’s quality, quantity, composition, price, guarantee, shelf life, origin, and any potential risks to the consumer’s health and safety.

It is mandatory to include the name and contact details of the importer, along with other requisite details in Portuguese, on the back labels of most imported products.

Note the special labelling requirements for toxic food products in Brazil; adhere to these when exporting.

Ensure products bear labels with metric units or their equivalents.

Methods of quoting and payment

Quotations should be FOB and C&F (Incoterms 2000), ex-works, Brazilian port, and in US dollars. Payment terms can be in advance, collection (payment terms are freely negotiable, averaging 360 days), with or without a letter of credit coverage.

Documentary & Clearance Requirements

Documentation required:

Commercial invoice
Bill of lading
Certificate of origin – if a product is eligible for special multilateral agreements.

Export to Brazil – Customs process:

Ensuring all customs documents are in complete order is essential. Products may face delays due to various issues, including minor errors or omissions in the paperwork. Brazilian customs may impose high fees on products held, and they frequently seize shipments with seemingly inaccurate documentation. Customs reserves the right to levy fines and penalties at its discretion. For more details on customs regulations in Brazil, consult the appropriate resources.

Brazil Customs website (in Portuguese).

Understanding Import Taxes and Charges in Brazil

When shipping goods into Brazil, many first-time importers are surprised by how complex the tax and fee structure can be. Beyond customs duty, there’s a mix of federal, state, and sector-specific charges that can quickly inflate your landed cost. Having worked with clients importing everything from machinery to fresh produce into Brazil, I know how important it is to map out these costs before you commit to an order.

Here are the main taxes and charges you need to be aware of:

Key Highlights: Import Costs in Brazil

Import Duty (II): Applied on the customs value (CIF). Rates depend on your product’s NCM/HS code.
IPI (Tax on Industrialised Products): Charged on most manufactured goods. Rates vary from 0%–30% in many cases, but can be higher for luxury or “sin” goods.
PIS & COFINS-Import: Federal social contributions on imports, usually 2.1% (PIS) and 9.65% (COFINS).
ICMS (State VAT): Varies by state — for example, São Paulo commonly applies 18%. This tax is calculated “por dentro” (meaning it’s grossed up and charged on its own base), which catches out many importers.
AFRMM (Merchant Marine Freight Charge): 25% applied on ocean freight for long-haul imports (10% cabotage; 40% inland river freight).
SISCOMEX Fee: A fixed government charge per import declaration, collected in Brazilian reais (approx. R$185 under the older system — newer DUIMP fees may differ).
Other Expenses: Expect warehouse storage, port handling, clearance agent fees, and bank charges. These vary by location and service provider.
Tax Reform Watch: Brazil began phasing in a new VAT model (CBS/IBS) in 2025. For now, imports remain subject to the current stack of II, IPI, PIS/COFINS, and ICMS — but keep an eye on changes in the coming years.

Brazil remains a highly attractive market, but navigating its import system demands planning. By understanding the full range of taxes and fees, you can budget accurately and avoid nasty surprises when your goods arrive.

Business Risks – Export to Brazil

Companies should dedicate time to exploring the Brazilian market, seeking professional advice as needed, and conducting thorough research on market entry challenges before forming any business relationships.

Companies wishing to operate in Brazil should commit to the highest level of corporate behaviour and familiarise themselves with the laws of their country and the penalties pertaining to bribery of foreign officials.

Export to Brazil – Intellectual Property Protection

Brazil has joined several international agreements to foster intellectual property rights, including the Uruguay Round Agreements, which encompass the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property (TRIPS) Agreement signed in 1994. Brazil also participates in the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and adheres to the Berne Convention for copyright protection, in addition to being a party to the Universal Convention on Copyrights, safeguarding literary and artistic works.

While pre-marketing foreign software registration isn’t mandatory, it is generally recommended for better protection. Companies can register through an agency overseen by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

Software enjoys protection for 50 years, starting from January, following its publication. This timeframe contrasts with the 70-year duration allocated for copyright protection. Notably, foreign entities can qualify for software protection in Brazil, provided their home country reciprocates these rights to Brazilian nationals.

To secure trademark ownership rights in Brazil, registration is essential. Except in specific cases, brands not previously registered are eligible for registration. The process takes place at the INPI (Federal Intellectual Property Agency) for trademarks, while trade names require registration with the local Junta Comercial (Commercial Registry).

Dispute resolution

The fraudulent use of internationally recognised trademarks remains a significant issue in Brazil. However, in recent years, authorities have enhanced the protection of these marks significantly. Moreover, some foreign firms have successfully pursued court actions against trademark infringements.

Brazil legally protects four kinds of trademarks:

Industry trademarks, which manufacturers use to distinguish their products
Trademarks that merchants use to identify their merchandise
Service marks that safeguard services or activities
General marks that pinpoint the origin of a series of products or services, each individually distinguished by specific marks

To secure protection in Brazil, inventors must patent their inventions locally. Brazil adopts a first-to-file approach. As a participant in the Paris Convention. Brazil allows citizens from other member countries who have already filed patents in their home nations. To have exclusive rights to apply for patents within specific periods, based on the nature of the property.

Brazil Information Resources

Export to Brazil – About the Author

Aidan Conaty is the founder of TCI China & Goodada. Goodada also provides Quality Control Inspections in Brazil. Aidan’s background is in Supply Chain Consultancy, and he is a qualified accountant.

Exporting to Brazil? – Facts & Information