Brazil Raises Freight Floor Fines to R$ 1 Million

What Does the New Freight Floor Law Change?

President Lula signed the law on Wednesday, August 5, updating the rules for Brazil's mandatory minimum freight rate for road transport. The legislation originated from a provisional measure issued by the government in March 2026 and now carries full legal force.

How Are Penalties Changing for Violations?

The new law strengthens enforcement mechanisms and significantly toughens penalties for non-compliance. Repeat offenders can face fines of up to R$ 1 million, and transporters who repeatedly violate the floor rate risk having their operating licences cancelled entirely.

What Was Vetoed — and Why?

As widely expected, Lula vetoed the article that would have granted amnesty to truckers who blocked highways in 2022 following former President Jair Bolsonaro's electoral defeat. The veto signals the government's position that road blockades cannot be retroactively pardoned through transport legislation.

What Did Lula Say About Truckers?

While signing the law, the president emphasised that enforcement of the minimum freight floor must be consistent. He also acknowledged the hardships faced by truckers and said it is important to listen to the sector's difficulties in order to improve policies aimed at the category.

What Does This Mean for Businesses and Logistics?

The updated methodology for calculating the minimum floor rate is intended to better reflect real operating costs, giving carriers more predictability. For companies that rely on road freight — which moves the vast majority of goods across Brazil — clearer rules and tougher sanctions may reduce disputes over underpayment of freight charges.