Brazil–Thailand Trade
Brazil imports from Thailand exceed $4B annually. Key drivers: rubber (natural + synthetic), auto parts, chemicals, and electronics for São Paulo's industrial belt.
Top Categories
- Natural rubber (Brazil's #1 supplier: Thailand)
- Auto components and tires
- Air conditioner parts
- Textiles and fabrics
- Chemical intermediates
Mercosur Import Duties
Thailand has no FTA with Mercosur — standard MFN tariffs apply.
- Import duty (II): 10–35% depending on TEC (Tarifa Externa Comum)
- IPI (industrial tax): 0–20%
- PIS/COFINS: 9.25% combined
- ICMS (state VAT): 17–19%
Total effective tax load often 60–100% of CIF. Factor into landed cost early.
Compliance & Certifications
INMETRO
Mandatory for 300+ product categories (electrical, toys, PPE, auto). Ordinance-specific.
ANVISA
Food, cosmetics, medical devices, sanitizers. Registration 3–12 months.
RADAR SISCOMEX
Every Brazilian importer needs RADAR license from Receita Federal.
Logistics: Laem Chabang → Santos
| Route | Transit | 40'HC (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Bangkok → Santos (via Singapore) | 32–38 days | $3,200–4,500 |
| Bangkok → Paranaguá | 34–40 days | $3,400–4,700 |
| Bangkok → Itajaí | 32–38 days | $3,300–4,500 |
Payment & FX
- L/C dominant due to distance and BCB regulations
- T/T restricted; BCB reporting on all FX above USD 10K
- Brazilian real volatility — consider FX hedging
FAQ
Q: Is there any FTA between Thailand and Brazil? A: No — standard MFN duties apply. Mercosur–Singapore FTA does not extend to Thailand.
Q: What's the INMETRO process? A: OCP (Certification Body) evaluates factory + product, issues certificate. Timelines 60–120 days.
Q: Can I import without RADAR? A: No — RADAR SISCOMEX registration with Receita Federal is mandatory for all importers.
Q: How volatile are landed costs due to BRL/USD? A: Very — track PTAX rate daily. Hedge via NDF or forward contracts for orders over USD 100K.