Program changes in 2025 redefine taxes and controls for cross-border online purchases in Brazil.
E-commerce expansion and tax reform
The growth of international e-commerce in 2025 brought new tax and control rules for purchases made abroad. Despite the changes, online imports remain high. According to the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service, over 16 million parcels arrived in October, with 96% processed under the Remessa Conforme Program (PRC).
The program allows taxes to be declared and collected at checkout, reducing uncertainty for consumers and speeding up product delivery. Official reports highlight its consolidation as the main mechanism for tracking cross-border orders.
Taxes are now collected at checkout
Tax lawyer André Peniche emphasizes that the main shift is the advance payment of import taxes, which offers transparency and reduces surprises. “Buyers now know exactly how much they’ll pay, avoiding unexpected costs,” he says.
Thousands of e-commerce platforms have joined the PRC, which standardizes tax collection and simplifies customs clearance, especially for items priced up to US$ 50.
How certified platforms benefit consumers
According to Peniche, if a platform is certified under the PRC, the import tax drops from 60% to 20% for purchases up to US$ 50, and the total cost already appears at checkout. However, state-level ICMS tax remains applied on the total transaction value and may vary depending on the buyer’s state.
For non-certified platforms, traditional import rules still apply. Taxes are higher, and payment occurs only after the package arrives in Brazil, often increasing final costs and causing delays.
Planning remains crucial when buying abroad
Peniche advises consumers to treat international shopping as a planned decision. “It’s not just about price anymore. Buyers must understand all taxes, check PRC certification, and consider realistic delivery times,” he notes.
By confirming if a store is enrolled in the Remessa Conforme Program and keeping digital receipts, consumers can prevent unexpected fees, customs delays, and ensure a smoother international purchasing experience.