The Executive Management Committee (Gecex) of the Foreign Trade Chamber (Camex) maintained the schedule for increasing import tariffs on electric and hybrid vehicles. However, the body approved the reintroduction of a zero-rate import quota for disassembled and semi-disassembled models, according to a note from "Agência Brasil". The measure will be valid for six months from July 1st of next year and includes a limit of US$463 million in vehicles under the CKD and SKD regimes, which allow for the final assembly of automobiles in Brazil.

Rates reach 35%

According to Gecex, semi-knocked-down (SKD) electrified vehicles will have their import tariff increased to 35% starting in July. Completely knocked-down (CKD) models will continue with a 14% tariff until the end of 2026, also increasing to 35% in January 2027. The additional quota with zero tax will have the same value as the mechanism that was in effect until January of this year. Above the authorized limit, the tariffs foreseen in the official schedule will continue to apply. The decision does not include fully assembled electrified vehicles, which remain subject to the established taxation rules.

Government defends transition.

In a statement, Gecex (the Foreign Trade Management Agency of Brazil) affirmed that the measure seeks to align trade policy with initiatives aimed at fleet renewal, encouraging innovation, and reducing carbon emissions in the automotive sector. The agency highlighted that electrified vehicles contribute to the decarbonization of the Brazilian automotive supply chain and to the adoption of more sustainable technologies.

Industry criticizes decision

The National Association of Automotive Vehicle Manufacturers (Anfavea) reacted negatively to the measure and stated that it views the decision with "great concern." The organization declared that maintaining import quotas with a zero tariff could harm manufacturers established in the country, workers, and national auto parts companies. According to the association, statements from unions, business entities, and industry representatives pointed to negative impacts on local production. 

This text was translated by machine from Brazilian Portuguese.