Brazil Tax Reform Tracker
Brazil is replacing 5 taxes with 2. The biggest change to the country's tax system since 1988 — and it directly affects every importer for the next 8 years.
Essential terms
?What are CBS and IBS?
CBS (Contribuição sobre Bens e Serviços) and IBS (Imposto sobre Bens e Serviços) are the two new taxes replacing Brazil's current five-tax system. CBS replaces PIS, COFINS, and IPI at the federal level. IBS replaces ICMS and ISS at the state/municipal level. The transition runs 2026–2033.
Tax reform tracker?What is ICMS?
ICMS (Imposto sobre Circulação de Mercadorias e Serviços) is a state-level VAT charged on imported goods. Rates vary by state (typically 17–20%, up to 25% for some products). ICMS cascades on top of other import taxes, significantly increasing landed cost.
ICMS rates by state?What is an NCM code?
NCM (Nomenclatura Comum do Mercosul) is Brazil's 8-digit tariff classification code. The first 6 digits match the international HS (Harmonized System) code — the remaining 2 are Mercosur-specific. Every import tax rate in Brazil is determined by the NCM code.
HS → NCM lookup toolThe reform in 60 seconds
Brazil's indirect tax system is notoriously complex — five different taxes (PIS, COFINS, IPI, ICMS, ISS) with different rates, bases, and rules, often cascading on top of each other. The reform (EC 132/2023 + LC 214/2025) replaces them all with a modern dual-VAT:
Being eliminated (by 2033)
- PIS — 2.1% federal on imports
- COFINS — 9.65% federal on imports
- IPI — 0–300% federal (product-specific)
- ICMS — 17–22% state (varies by UF)
- ISS — 2–5% municipal (services)
Replacing them
- CBS (Contribuição sobre Bens e Serviços) — federal ~8.8%
- IBS (Imposto sobre Bens e Serviços) — state/municipal ~17.7%
Combined reference rate: ~26.5%. Non-cascading, fully creditable, destination-based.
Import Duty (II) is NOT part of this reform
The II (Imposto de Importação) is a Mercosur Common External Tariff — it's not a domestic tax and is not affected by this reform. To reduce II, look at Ex-Tarifário exemptions or the EU-Mercosur preferential rates.
Where we are now (May 2026)
In 2026, the new CBS and IBS taxes exist alongside the old system at minimal test rates (0.9% and 0.1%). The net additional burden is approximately 1%. The real changes start in 2027 when CBS goes full rate and PIS/COFINS/IPI are eliminated.
Why this matters for importers
IPI eliminated (2027)
For products with high IPI rates (beverages 40–60%, vehicles 25–55%, tobacco 300%), this is a massive reduction. Only "sin tax" products get the replacement Selective Tax (IS).
ICMS incentives end (2029–2033)
States like ES (FUNDAP), SC (TTD), GO (COMEXPRODUZIR) use ICMS incentives to attract imports. These phase out as IBS replaces ICMS. Port choice will be about logistics, not taxes.
Destination-based taxation
Today, importing through a low-ICMS state saves money. After the reform, IBS is charged at the destination rate. Where you import no longer affects the state tax component.
Full credit chain
CBS and IBS are non-cascading. Tax paid on imports is fully credited against tax on domestic sales. No more cumulative burden from PIS/COFINS calculated on top of ICMS.
Deep dives
Year-by-Year Timeline
2026–20338-year transition from 2026 to 2033. What changes each year, what coexists, and when the old taxes finally disappear.
CBS & IBS Explained
CoreDeep dive on the two new taxes replacing five. How they work on imports, creditability, calculation base, and what's different from PIS/COFINS/ICMS.
Selective Tax (IS)
New taxThe new "sin tax" replacing IPI on alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, and sugary drinks. Who pays, how much, and which HS codes are affected.
ICMS Incentives Phase-Out
StatesFUNDAP (ES), TTD (SC), COMEXPRODUZIR (GO), and other state programs that attracted imports. How and when they disappear.
Landed Cost Impact
CalculatorBefore-and-after calculations for real products. How the reform changes total import costs for machinery, chemicals, food, and consumer goods.
Key legislation
- Emenda Constitucional 132/2023 — constitutional amendment authorizing the reform (Dec 20, 2023)
- Lei Complementar 214/2025 — main implementing law for CBS and IBS (Jan 16, 2025)
- Lei Complementar 227/2026 — supplementary rules for CBS/IBS transition (Jan 13, 2026)
- Decreto 12.175/2026 — CBS/IBS import calculation methodology and Siscomex integration