Brazil's Blusinhas Tax May Return in September

What Is the "Blusinhas Tax" and Why Does It Matter?

Brazil temporarily suspended its 20% import tax on international purchases under US$50 — popularly known as the "blusinhas tax" — via a provisional measure (MP) published on May 12, 2026. The measure gave Finance Minister Dario Durigan authority to reduce that rate to zero. Without Congressional approval, the suspension expires on September 8, and the 20% tax returns from September 9.

What Must Happen Before the Deadline?

For the exemption to continue, Congress must approve the MP before it lapses. The process requires: formation of a joint committee to issue an opinion, a vote in the Chamber of Deputies, and a vote in the Senate. If the Senate amends the Chamber's version, the text goes back to deputies for another round. Given the electoral season, the joint committee has not yet even been installed.

Will Taxes Disappear Entirely After September?

No. Even if the federal import tax is suspended, Brazilian states continue to charge ICMS (state VAT) of between 17% and 20% on these purchases — and that charge remains regardless of what Congress decides.

What Happens in 2027?

Regardless of the outcome in September, some form of taxation on sub-US$50 orders will return in 2027 under Brazil's broader consumption-tax reform. The exact rate is not yet defined; consultancy Roit estimates it at approximately 9.43%.

Why Is This Controversial?

Consumers oppose the tax because it raises the cost of affordable imported goods from platforms such as Shein and Shopee. Brazilian retailers, however, argue that the exemption gives foreign sellers an unfair competitive advantage and threatens domestic jobs, calling for "tax parity." The debate has also become politically charged, with the opposition criticising the federal government's approach.