2024-11-27 18:51:00
The “taxation of blouses”, as the collection of import tax on products with a value of less than US$ 50generated a 40% drop in imports during the first month of validity. Despite this, the measure adopted by the Lula government brought R$533 million to public coffers in just three months, estimated to raise more than R$2 billion annually.
Summary of what you need to know:
- A taxation caused a 33.6% drop in international purchases in three months.
- The government collected R$533 million in the period, with an annual projection above R$2 billion.
- The measure, defended by national retailers, still divides opinions about its effects on the economy.
Tax on blouses made Brazilians stop importing
The measure came into effect in August, and the drop was immediate. In July, before the taxation, 18.4 million shipments of products below US$50 were registered, while in August the number fell to 10.9 million (a 40% drop). In September and October, there was a slight recovery, but purchases remain 33.6% below previous levels, totaling 34 million items purchased in the period from August to October.
Popular international e-commerce platforms such as Shein, Ago e Alibabawere the most affected. Even with the increase in the number of companies registered in the Compliant Shipping Program (PRC)the volume of purchases was lower than expected. Between April and June, Brazilians purchased 51.3 million items in international e-commerce; after taxation, that number dropped to 34 million.
In the first three months of validity, the new charge generated R$533 millioncompared to R$ 25.4 million collected in the previous quarter. Despite the increase in federal revenue, the collection of States with ICMS decreased due to the drop in imports. Now, the retail sector is putting pressure on the Confaz to increase the state ICMS rate from 17% to 25%which can make products even more expensive.
Measure still divides opinions
The Retail Development Institute (IDV) argues that the drop in imports helped to improve domestic sales. In August and September, retail growth was 4.5%, a timid recovery after a period of contraction. According to deputy Átila Lira, rapporteur of the measure, the taxation aims to create fairer conditions of competition between local retailers and international companies.
However, the effects on consumers are clear: fewer international purchases and possible price adjustments due to higher taxes. As a result, many people still criticize the measure adopted by the Lula government.
1732733928
#Imports #fell #Lula #governments #blouse #tax
What are the potential drawbacks of the “blouse tax” for Brazilian consumers and businesses?
## Taxing “Blouses”: A Boon or a Burden?
**Host**: Welcome back to the show! Today we’re diving into a controversial economic policy: the taxation of imported goods valued under US$50, nicknamed the “blouse tax”. Joining us to discuss its impact is Dr. Ana Silva, an economist specializing in international trade. Dr. Silva, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Silva**: Pleasure to be here.
**Host**: Let’s start with the basics. What prompted this “blouse tax”?
**Dr. Silva**: It’s part of a broader effort by the Lula government to bolster domestic industries and increase tax revenue. The idea is that by taxing these previously duty-free imports, the government can incentivize consumers to buy locally-produced goods and bring in more revenue to fund public services.
**Host**: Interesting. But the numbers seem to show a significant drop in imports since the tax came into effect.
**Dr. Silva**: That’s right. Initial reports showed a 40% decrease in purchases of goods under US$50 in the first month alone. While there’s been a slight recovery since then, purchases remain down by about a third compared to pre-tax levels.
**Host**: So is this tax backfiring?
**Dr. Silva**: It’s complex. Yes, the drop in imports is obviously a consequence of the tax. However, the government has collected a sizable R$533 million in just three months, with projections showing it could exceed R$2 billion annually. This revenue can be used for important social programs and infrastructure development.
**Host**: But what about the effects on consumers and local businesses?
**Dr. Silva**: Well, consumers are definitely paying more for certain imported goods. But it’s also forcing them to consider local alternatives, potentially benefiting Brazilian businesses.
**Host**: Some argue this could hurt smaller businesses that rely on importing raw materials or components.
**Dr. Silva**: That’s a valid concern, and it’s something policymakers need to carefully consider. There’s a delicate balance between protecting domestic industries, controlling imports, and allowing access to affordable goods for consumers.
**Host**: It sounds like there are pros and cons to this policy. Ultimately, only time will tell if the long-term benefits outweigh the downsides. Dr. Silva, thank you for providing such valuable insight.
**Dr. Silva**: My pleasure.
**Host**: And to our viewers, what do you think of the “blouse tax”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
