Brazil Import Tax on Shein & Shopee Faces Reversal

What Is the «Blusinha» Provisional Measure?

Brazil's so-called MP das blusinhas ("little blouse" provisional measure) eliminated the previous 20% import tax on cross-border purchases of up to US$ 50 made on platforms such as Shein, Shopee and AliExpress. The measure was designed to bring informal imports into a formal tax framework, but at a lower rate to ease consumer access to cheap goods.

Why Are Business Groups Pushing Back Now?

After Donald Trump's sweeping new tariffs disrupted global trade flows, Brazilian manufacturers and retailers intensified lobbying in Congress to reverse the measure. Their argument: with Asian platforms already benefiting from redirected export flows caused by Trump's tariffs, eliminating the 20% levy gives foreign e-commerce an additional competitive edge over domestic industry.

What Could Change in Congress?

Lawmakers are now weighing whether to reject, modify, or let the provisional measure expire. Business associations are calling for the reinstatement of the 20% import tax on low-value cross-border purchases, arguing that the current zero-rate regime undermines Brazilian manufacturers and brick-and-mortar retailers alike.

What Does This Mean for Shoppers and Sellers?

For consumers, a reversal would mean higher prices on items ordered from Shein, Shopee, AliExpress and similar platforms. For Brazilian e-commerce sellers and manufacturers, it would level the playing field against subsidized foreign competitors. The outcome remains uncertain while the congressional debate unfolds.