Brazil Congress Races to Kill Blusinhas Import Tax

What is the 'blusinhas tax' and why does it matter?

The so-called taxa das blusinhas is a 20% import duty on international purchases worth up to US$50 — the threshold that covers most packages from platforms like Shein, Shopee and AliExpress. A Presidential Decree (Medida Provisória) signed in May 2026 suspended the tax, but the exemption expires on 8 September 2026 unless Congress formally approves the measure.

What happened in Congress this week?

Brazil's National Congress has scheduled the installation meeting of the Joint Committee (Comissão Mista) that will review the MP for Wednesday, 12 August 2026. The government of President Lula has listed the MP as a top legislative priority. Institutional Relations Minister José Guimarães stated there is "no doubt whatsoever" about the proposal and asked Senate President Davi Alcolumbre to fast-track the committee setup.

Who are the key figures involved?

Senator Eduardo Braga (MDB-AM) is being mentioned as likely rapporteur. For the committee presidency — to be nominated by the lower house — the names circulating are Reginaldo Lopes (PT-MG) and Jadyel Alencar (Republicanos-PI).

What happens if the deadline is missed?

If the MP is not approved by both chambers before 8 September 2026, the 20% import duty automatically returns. For cross-border shoppers, this means packages from international platforms would once again face the tax at customs.

What flexibility does the MP give the Finance Ministry?

A key provision allows the Finance Minister to adjust import duty rates by executive act — something restricted since Congress fixed the rates in law in 2024. Under the MP, the ministry could set the rate anywhere from 0% (for shipments up to US$50) to 30% (for shipments up to US$3,000) and could differentiate rates by product type or compliance with Brazil's Federal Revenue programme. Finance Minister Dario Durigan noted in late July that a review could be proposed if import surges harm domestic industry.