Brazil’s government is eliminating import taxes on essential foods to reduce consumer prices. The announcement includes a variety of products and aims to boost domestic agriculture. Changes also extend food inspection regulations, facilitating nationwide sales of locally inspected goods, while Conab will invest in regulatory stocks to enhance food availability.
The Brazilian government has announced plans to eliminate import taxes on essential food products to alleviate prices for consumers. This decision impacts a range of items, including coffee, olive oil, sugar, corn, sunflower oil, sardines, cookies, pasta, and meat. The announcement was made by Vice President Geraldo Alckmin during a meeting led by President Lula, involving key ministers from various governmental departments.
Vice President Alckmin emphasized the goal of these measures, stating they aim to benefit citizens by allowing them to maintain purchasing power and acquire essential food items at reduced prices. This initiative is also expected to stimulate both production and commerce sectors in Brazil. He remarked that the government is willing to forgo tax revenue to facilitate price reductions on these essential goods.
Currently, Brazil’s import tax rates on the specified food items range from 7.2% for corn to 32% for sardines. Further supporting this initiative, the government will raise the import quota for palm oil from 60,000 to 150,000 metric tons. Additionally, significant changes in inspection rules aim to extend the jurisdiction of Brazil’s Municipal Inspection Service (SIM) to a national level, allowing locally certified food products to be sold nationwide.
Agriculture Minister Carlos Fávaro indicated that expanded regulations under SIM would open opportunities for farmers, stating, “For one year, we will apply the effects of the SIM to the entire Brazilian territory.” The focus will be on products that pose no potential health risks to ensure food quality.
In parallel, the Brazilian government is also aiming to enhance domestic production of fundamental food items. The National Supply Company (Conab) is set to invest in establishing “regulatory stocks.” Minister of Agrarian Development Paulo Teixeira remarked that there will be a selection of subsidized products aimed at supporting the basic food basket for Brazilian society.
The Brazilian government’s recent measures to eliminate import taxes on essential food items reflect a strategic approach to reduce living costs while also boosting local agriculture and commerce. By expanding the SIM jurisdiction and increasing import quotas, the government seeks to ensure food safety and accessibility across the nation, thus supporting Brazilian citizens in maintaining their nutritional needs.
Original Source: www.just-food.com
