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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
Business and Taxation
Guide to
Brazil
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
Preface
This guide was prepared in 2012 by Mazars in Brazil. Present in Brazil since 1995, Mazars has almost
500 employees in four offices:




São Paulo
Rio de Janeiro
Campinas
Ribeirão Preto.
The firm offers a broad range of valued-added services to clients, including:





Accounting & Outsourcing Services
o Accounting & Financial Outsourcing
o Direct & Indirect Tax Outsourcing
o HR Outsourcing
o Secretarial Services
o Accounting Tax Reconciliation
Consulting
o Strategy
o Benchmarking
o Marketing & Sales
o Operational Excellence
o Information Technology
o Sustainability & Human Rights
o Asset Management
o Conduct & Human Resources
o Risk Management
Audit
o Independent Audit of Financial Statements
o Audit for Consolidation Purposes of Multinational Groups
o Limited Review of Financial Statements
o Agreed Upon Procedures
o Assurance Services
Tax
o Transfer Pricing Services
o Tax Planning
o Accessory Obligation Review
o Tax and Labour Due Diligence
o Tax Advisory for Expatriates
o Tax Review for Direct & Indirect Taxes
o Succession & Corporate Planning for Owner Managed Business
Financial Advisory Services
o Transaction Services (Acquisition & Vendor Due Diligence)
o Valuation
o Litigation & Arbitration
o Project Finance & Modelling.
Mazars is an international, integrated and independent organisation specialising on Audit,
Consulting, Accountancy, Tax, Legal and Advisory Services. The firm has 13,000 skilled professionals
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
working in 69 countries, making up an integrated partnership across all continents. Mazars also has
correspondents and joint ventures in 15 additional countries.
This guide has been prepared to assist people interested in doing business in Brazil. It is intended to
answer some of the important broad questions that may arise, but does not cover exhaustively each
subject. Seeking appropriate professional advice about the relevant laws and regulations is
advisable.
The key contacts in Mazars in Brazil are:
Eduardo Cabrera
Managing Partner
Email: eduardo.cabrera@mazars.com.br
Tel: +55 11 3524 4577
Eder Mutinelli
Consulting
Email: eder.mutinelli@mazars.com.br
Tel: +55 19 3368 7811
Dominique Nezan
Audit
Email: dominique.nezan@mazars.com.br
Tel: +55 11 3524 4582
Firas Abou Merhi
Financial Advisory Services
Email: firas.abou-merhi@mazars.com.br
Tel: +55 11 3524 4577
Uipiquer Dos Santos
Tax
Email: uipiquer@mazars.com.br
Tel: +55 11 3524 4539
Ricardo Aquino
Accounting and Outsourcing Services
Email: ricardo.aquino@mazars.com.br
Tel: +55 11 3524 4578
© Praxity 2011
This guide is intended as a general guide and should not be acted upon without further advice.
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
Contents
Page
1.
General information
6
2.
Regulation of foreign investment
10
Government incentives
13
4.
Business organisations available to foreigners
16
5.
Setting up and running business organisations
18
6.
Corporate taxes and social charges
21
3.
1.1 Opportunities and possible obstacles for foreign investors
1.2 Area and population
1.3 Government and law
1.4 Currency
1.5 Economy
1.5.1 Industry
1.6 Financial stability
1.6.1 Interest rates
1.6.2 Debt and credit ratings
1.6.3 Exchange rates
1.6.4 Miscellaneous indicators
2.1 Investment requirements and sectors
2.2 FIP and FMIEE
2.3 Anti-trust authorities
2.4 ‘Super CADE’
2.5 Regulatory agencies
2.6 Control of international financial operations
3.1 Tax incentives
3.2 Special Economic Zones
3.2.1 Free-Trade Zones (FTZ)
3.3 Special customs regimes
3.4 Fostering exports
3.4 R&D and green technologies
3.4.1 Information technology
4.1 Legal entities
4.2 Commercial agreements
5.1 Accounting and audit standards
5.1.1 Brazilian GAAP and IFRS
5.1.2 The Equity method
5.2 Audit requirements
5.3 Fiscal reporting obligations
6.1 General principles
6.2 Corporate income tax
6.2.1 Actual Profit tax regime
6.2.2 Presumed Profit tax regime
6.2.3 Arbitrated Profit tax regime
6.2.4 SIMPLES (simplified tax regime)
6.3 Federal Social Contributions on gross revenues (PIS /COFINS)
6.4 Other Federal, State and Municipal taxes and contributions
6.4.1 Tax on Industrialized Products (IPI)
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13
6.4.2 Contribution for Intervening in the Economic Domain (CIDE)
6.4.3 Tax on Financial Operations (IOF)
6.4.4 State Tax on Circulation of Goods (ICMS)
6.4.5 Municipal Service Tax (ISS)
6.4.6 The ‘gross-up’ taxation system
6.5 Transfer Pricing
6.6 Consolidation or group taxation
6.7 Dividends and interest
6.8 Thin capitalisation
6.9 Interest on net equity
6.10 Other tax considerations
6.10.1 Asset deal vs. Share deal
6.10.2 Royalties and copyrights
6.10.3 Importation of services
6.10.4 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) rules
6.10.5 Capital gains tax
6.10.6 Declaration of Brazilian Capital abroad for residents (DCBE)
6.11 Labour laws
6.11.1 Hiring, dismissal and litigation
6.11.2 Health insurance
6.11 3 Remuneration and bonuses
6.11 4 Pensions and vacations
6.12 Labour unions and collective agreements
6.13 Social Security contributions
6.13.1 INSS Employee Contribution (2012)
6.13.2 Illustrative examples of employer labour costs
Personal taxation
Double taxation agreements
Sales and use taxes
34
35
36
Portfolio investments for foreigners
Trusts
Practical information
39
40
41
Appendices
43
9.1 State Tax on Circulation of Goods (ICMS)
12.1 Transportation
12.2 Language
12.3 Time relative to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
12.4 Business hours
12.5 Public holidays
13.1 Privileged tax regimes
13.2 Tax haven jurisdictions
Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
6
1. General information
1.1 Opportunities and possible obstacles for foreign investors
At the end of December 2011, Brazil overtook the United Kingdom as the 6th largest economy in the
world.
Since 1994, Brazil has succeeded in reducing inflation and progressively initiated a steady growth
that had been anticipated for many years but always postponed due to a lack of economic and
political stability. After the 1997/1998 Asian crisis, Brazil entered a new era of economic
development and has multiplied its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by five since 2002.
Brazil’s economy is now largely based on services (67%) and industry (27%), while agriculture
remains one of the most productive in the world. The country is a top producer, manufacturer and
exporter of aircrafts, automobiles, electronics, textiles, footwear, ethanol, steel, sugar, coffee,
orange juice, soybeans and corned beef, among others.
Abundant natural resources are also a key to Brazil’s economic success. Brazil’s land area ranks 5th
in the world and its soil is rich in bauxite, iron ore, timber, tin, manganese, natural gas, aluminium,
nickel, gold and petroleum. In addition, more than 85% of its electricity production comes from
renewable sources (hydropower, biomass, wind, solar).
Brazil has a large and young population (5th largest in the world with 192.4 million individuals 1, 26%
are under 15 years old) and a fast growing middle-class.
Despite all these positive aspects, Brazil also faces challenges in its development momentum.
Informal activities are still apparent, bureaucracy slows down administrative processes and the tax
environment is unstable and complex (for example, federal, state and municipal levels). There is a
large social gap between the affluent and the poor and the geographical imbalance between the
North and South still exists. Indeed, Southern states of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais
represent more than 50% of Brazilian GDP.
Nonetheless, Brazil’s economy offers far more opportunities than threats. Incoming events (World
Cup 2014, Olympic Games 2016), good macro-economic conditions and forecasts, strong domestic
market and investments in infrastructure and skilled people, as well as the political stability, should
be a source of confidence and interest for potential investors.
1.2 Area and population
Brazil’s population is culturally diverse, built over the centuries through various waves of voluntary
or forced immigration (mainly Portuguese, but also Italian, Spaniards, German, Japanese, MiddleEastern and African slaves), mixing with indigenous populations.
Brazilian life expectancy is the highest among the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South
Africa). It is still currently behind Western standards, although the evolution of its Human
Development Index shows that the country benefits from one of the highest development trends.
1
Source: Brazilian Geography and Statistics Institute (IBGE), 2011
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7
The country counts on a young and relatively employable population ready to take on the future
challenges that a fast developing country, such as Brazil, inevitably faces.
Life expectancy
Literacy rate (15 years and above
Median age
Urban population
Human Development Index (HDI)
HDI evolution since 1995 (%)
Unemployment rate (%)
Age structure
0-14 years of age
15-64
65+
2
Brazil
73.5
90%
29.3
84%
0.718
13%
6.0%
26%
67%
7%
Brazilian society is moving fast. From 2010 to 2020, 8.8 million people are expected to migrate from
the low-income brackets, classes E and D, to the middle class (class C).
Brazil’s social classes, 2003 to 2014 (% of the population)
Classes and monthly revenues
2003
Class A & B (>R$4,635)
8%
Class C (R$1,159 to R$4,635
37%
Class D (R$701 to R$1,159
27%
Class E (<R$701)
28%
3
2009
11%
50%
24%
15%
2014
16%
56%
20%
8%
1.3 Government and law
After a century of military domination over Brazilian politics and periods of dictatorship, civilian
return to power in the mid-1980s paved the way to political stability and economic success with the
implementation of the Plano Real in 1994. This set of measures was designed to control inflation and
equalise the balance of payments.
Brazil is a federal republic. The country’s political system is based on the union of three independent
political entities (the Federation, the States and the Municipalities) and three government branches
(executive, legislative and judicial).
The President, elected for four years, is both the head of state and head of government. Dilma
Rousseff was elected at the end of 2010.
1.4 Currency
The monetary unit used in Brazil is the Real. The international abbreviation is R$ and its International
Standards Organization code s BRL. The Real is subdivided into 100 centavos, represented by ‘¢’.
2
3
Source UNDP, CIA, IMF, World Bank, CCFB
Source FGV, IBGE, LCA, Bradesco
Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
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1.5 Economy
While the USA, China and Japan continue to dominate GDP ranking, Brazil became the 6th largest
economy in 2011, ahead of UK.
Brazil’s GDP growth slowed to 2.7% in 2011, compared to 7.5% in 2010. Behind China, but ahead of
Russia and India, Brazil has become one of the most successful places to invest in. Inbound
investments have virtually doubled since 2007.
GDP Growth rate 2011
Per Capita GDP 2011 (US$)
Inflation (consumer prices 2011)
FDI Net Inflows 2011 (US$ billion)
Stock of FDI 2011 – At Home (US$ billion)
World rank for FDI stock
4
Brazil
2.7%
12,789
6.6%
66,7
426
#13
Geographical disparities are still strong among the 26 states and the Federal district; Southern states
remain the most populated and the drivers of an economy now led by services. States of São Paulo,
Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais represent more than 40% of the population and 50% of the GDP.
1.5.1 Industry
Brazil has recently become an important oil producer, as a result of recent offshore crude oil
reserves. The country is also a leader in renewable energy, as hydropower and biomass account for
more than 85% of total electricity output.
Brazil’s main export partners are:
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China 17%
USA 10%
Argentina 9%
The Netherlands 5%
Japan 4%
Germany 3%
Italy 2%
Chile 2%
UK 2%
South Korea 2%
The country’s main import partners are:
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4
USA – 15%
China – 15%
Argentina – 7%
Germany – 7%
South Korea – 4%
Japan – 4%
Nigeria – 3%
Italy – 3%
World Bank, CIA, CEBR, IMF, UNCTAD
Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
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5
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France – 3%
India – 2%
1.6 Financial stability
1.6.1 Interest rates
The Brazilian Central Bank has taken measures to reduce interest rates, lowering them several times
in 2011 and 2012. High rates have attracted substantial foreign capital flows leading to an
overvalued currency unfavourable to exportations. The interest rates have also generated a higher
risk of non-payment from borrowers to banks and limited the level of lending to customers.
1.6.2 Debt and credit ratings
Brazilian public gross debt only represented 54.3% of GDP in 2011 (compared to more than 100% in
many developed countries). Brazil’s public gross debt is projected to drop to 40.4% by 2016. This
improvement is supported by the continuous increase in the country’s international credit ratings,
which is currently positive (Moody’s) and stable (Fitch and Standard & Poors).
1.6.3 Exchange rates
Exchange rate fluctuation remains a major issue for both local companies in their import and export
operations and for foreign investors in their long term cash management strategies.
1.6.4 Miscellaneous indicators
Transportation infrastructure is still in its early development stage compared to mature economies.
Access to new technologies is widespread but still at a prohibitive cost. There are 251 million mobile
phone lines in Brazil. Just over one third of the population (39%) use the Internet. 6
More than 70 million vehicles operate in Brazil. Local production amounted to 3.4 million units in
2011 (+0.7% compared to 2010) whereas imports represented approximately 20.0% of total
licensing in the last two years
5
6
Source: Ministério das Relações Exteriores (MRE)
Source: CIA, CCFB, ANATEL
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2. Regulation of foreign investment
2.1 Investment requirements and sectors
No nationality or minimum capital investments are required in order to start a business in Brazil.
However, there are some exceptions, such as:
1. Respecting some liquidity and solvency ratios for public tender or
2. Appointing a foreign individual as a Brazilian entity’s manager, administrator or executive
director.
In case 2, following the Normative Resolution n°95 released on 10 August 2011, a minimum capital
investment is required, for both Sociedade Anônima (SAs) and Limitadas (Limited Liability
Companies). The requirements are:
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Investment in foreign currency of an amount equal or higher than R$ 600,000 per foreign
worker, or
R$ 150,000 per foreign worker, along with the commitment that at least 10 new jobs (per
foreign worker) will be created in the following two years.
Foreign investments are authorised in many activities. These include:
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Mining, oil and gas
Agriculture and forestry
Light manufacturing
Telecommunications
Electricity
Banking and financial institutions (with prior authorisation from the Brazilian government)
Insurance (limited)
Tourism
Retail.
Foreign equity ownership is limited to 20% in air transportation and 30% in media industries (TV
broadcasting and newspapers).
Some foreign investment sectors are prohibited. These include:
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Nuclear energy
Mail and telegraph services
Public health services
Aerospace industry
Sanitation.
However, such sectors may remain accessible, in some cases, through local investment vehicles.
2.2 FIP AND FMIEE
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Both regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM), the Fundo de Investimento em
Participações (Private Equity Fund or FIP) and the Fundo Mútuo de Investimento em Empresas
Emergentes (Emerging Companies Investment Fund or FMIEE) are not legal entities but funds held
by financial investors. They have rapidly become attractive venture capital and private equity
investment vehicles, as they are not subject to corporate and gross revenue taxes (IRPJ, CSLL,
PIS/COFINS).
Some terms and conditions must be respected. Any participant cannot hold 40% or more of the
fund’s quotas and income. Furthermore, the portfolio must not comprise debt securities exceeding
5% of the fund’s net equity. If a foreign investor resides in a low tax jurisdiction, he or she will not
benefit from any exemption.
2.3 Anti-trust authorities
If any participant of a M&A contract presents an annual gross revenue higher than R$ 750 million in
Brazil, and another participant an annual gross revenue above R$ 75 million in Brazil, then the whole
case must be presented for approval or rejection to the Federal Antitrust Agency (Conselho
Administrativo de Defesa Econômica or CADE). This authority’s investigation can take a maximum of
240 days. On request of the participants, the duration of the investigation can be extended to 300
days, or up to 330 days by the CADE.
2.4 ‘Super CADE’
Up until the end of 2011, contracts could be presented within 15 days after completion. However,
after the law change in 2012, all projects signed after 31 May 2012 must now be submitted prior to
their execution (Lei no 12.529/11).
This ‘Super CADE’ law presents some uncertainties to the business community regarding potential
delays and the operational implication of this ‘on-hold’ period. For example, communication of the
transaction, management during the interim period, business implications. However, according to
the CADE, non-complex operations are expected to be cleared within 60 days maximum.
Furthermore, authorities diminished the constraints on M&A deals by raising the thresholds for prior
analysis. These were increased from R$ 400 million and R$ 30 million initially, to R$ 750 million and
R$ 75 million respectively (Interministerial Ordinance n°994 of 30 May 2012). This is anticipated to
reduce the number of cases to be studied and should hopefully accelerate processes.
2.5 Regulatory agencies
In order to control the potential transfer of public entities to the private sector, and to keep
regulating and supervising the economy, the Brazilian State created various regulatory agencies for
each branch.
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Banking and insurance sectors are regulated by the Brazilian Central Bank (BACEN - Banco
Central do Brasil) and the SUSEP (Superintedência de Seguros Privados) respectively, while
Brazilian Stock Exchange is under the authority of the CVM (Securities and Exchange
Commission - Comissão de Valores Mobiliários).
The IBAMA was created to deal with environmental issues, such as elaborating standards to
limit pollution, making decisions on the localisation of industries and authorising various
types of projects (hydroelectric dams for instance).
The other main agencies in Brazil are:
o ANEEL (Electricity)
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
ANATEL (telecommunications)
ANP (oil and natural gas)
ANTT (transport)
ANAC (civil aviation)
ANVISA (sanitation)
ANS (health)
ANA (water resources)
ANCINE (cinema industry).
2.6 Control of international financial operations
The Brazilian Central Bank (BACEN) is responsible for controlling financial relations with other
countries. Any inbound or outbound financial operation must be registered in the dedicated
Electronic Declaratory Registry (Registro Declaratório Eletrônico or RDE):
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Foreign Direct Investments in the RDE-IED (Investimentos Estrangeiros Diretos)
Foreign investments in capital and financial markets in the RDE-Portfolio
Debtor financial operations towards other countries in the RDE-ROF (Operações Financeiras).
Debtor financial operations include financial loans, rent of equipment, chartering of vessels,
etc.
Individuals and legal entities intending to perform such operations must be personally registered at
the Brazilian Central Bank (BACEN), in the Cademp (Cadastro de Pessoa Física/Jurídica,
Residente/não Residente no País).
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
3. Government incentives
3.1 Tax incentives
Foreign investors may benefit from all tax incentives in Brazil, as there is no nationality restriction.
Tax benefits may be granted by the States (a total of 26 plus the Federal District of Brasília), the
Municipalities or by Federal organisations specific to each specific sector.
It is important to note that it is mandatory to be established as a registered company in order to
benefit from any kind of tax benefit. Tax Authorities usually grant the tax benefit to the main Federal
Tax Number (CNPJ), i.e. the parent company.
3.2 Special Economic Zones
3.2.1 Free-Trade Zones (FTZ)
Investments may be performed in Free-Trade Zones, for example Manaus FTZ, North and Northeast
regions, among others. Dependent on fulfilling certain conditions in relation to localised economic
activities, production and/or consumption, foreign and residential investors may benefit from
exemption or reduction of:
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Corporate income tax (IRPJ)
Import duties
Excise tax (IPI)
Sales tax (ICMS) and
Taxes on gross revenues (PIS/COFINS).
Many government incentive programmes also offer low cost financing, which has been very
important in relation to Brazil’s high inflation and high bank interest rates. The main government
financing entity is the BNDES (Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social).


Manaus Free-Trade Zone (MFTZ)
o 75% of reduction of IRPJ for 10 years (currently limited until 2023)
o reduction of up to 88% of Import Tax (II)
o exemption of IPI if locally consumed and/or produced
o reduced ICMS tax rate
o exemption of PIS/COFINS when importing in MFTZ
o no PIS/COFINS on raw, intermediate and packing materials when buyer and supplier
are located in MFTZ and acquired materials are used in a local manufacturing
process
o limited PIS/COFINS (mostly 3.65%) on sales of locally produced goods.
Superintendence for the Development of Amazônia (SUDAM) & Northeast (SUDENE)
o Independent agencies affiliated to the Federal government and providing reduction
or exemption of income taxes, depending on their appreciation of projects in the
North and Northeast regions.
3.2. Special customs regimes
A few examples of special customs regimes in Brazil include:
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
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Temporary Admission programme allows some imported goods to stay for a determined
time and purpose in the territory without paying import taxes (mainly beneficial for
exhibitions, commercial, cultural and sports events and rental transactions).
Drawback regime involves various benefits. For instance, payment of import taxes such as II,
IPI, ICMS, and AFRMM (Merchant Marine Renewal Tax) can be partially or totally suspended
on goods which will be re-exported after being transformed, repaired or manufactured
locally. The amount of exemption depends on the level of local manufacturing. Instead of
being suspended, taxes may alternatively be paid first and then restituted after reexportation. Imported items must be limited to 40% of exported goods.
Raw materials and components (mainly parts for aircrafts, vehicles and electronics),. If
products are to be exported or sold to the domestic market, importation may be exempt
from Federal (II, IPI and PIS/COFINS) and State taxes (ICMS) through the RECOF programme.
Specifically for vehicles, the RECOM regime allows importation without IPI and foreign
exchange. This covers materials and components destined for custom industrialisation of
products ranked from 8701 to 8705 in the IPI rating Table (TIPI), for instance chassis, car
body, spare parts and sub-assemblies, such as motors, components and accessories.
Exploration of oil and natural gas - REPETRO is a special custom regime dedicated to the
import and export of goods involved in the prospection and exploration of oil and natural
gas deposits. It allows importation without incurring IPI, PIS and COFINS on raw materials,
parts and pieces used in the production of such goods which are to be re-exported
(drawback),or presumed so. Another benefit is exemption from IPI, PIS and COFINS on
importation of foreign equipment for a temporary stay. Companies holding permits and
authorisation for exploring oil and natural gas deposits may benefit from REPETRO.
REPEX is another regime suspending the payment of taxes, allowing the import
of crude oil and its derivatives when they are exported or re-exported. This programme is
solely available to firms authorised by the National Petroleum Agency (ANP – Agência
Nacional do Petróleo) to import and export oil products.
REIDI is a special tax regime relating to the Growth Acceleration Programme (PAC – Programa
de Aceleração do Crescimento). It is aimed at fostering Tax Environment investments and
developing infrastructures by exempting the purchase of goods and services from PIS and
COFINS. Entities involved in such projects must first be legally approved as part of the PAC
(transports, harbours, energy, sanitation and irrigation sectors).
3.3 Fostering exports
The import of goods that are not available in the Brazilian market may be subject to reduced import
duties.
Exports are encouraged through limited taxation on sales and, upon request and depending on the
activity, exemption, deferment or suspension of taxes paid on purchases. Export sales may be
further supported by utilising specific credit lines at beneficial rates.
3.4 R&D and green technologies
Activities relating to Research & Development (R&D) may lead to several incentives, such as:

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
Reduced IPI
Accelerated depreciation for new equipment destined to R&D
Accelerated amortization for capitalised R&D expenses and some intangibles.
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
Companies investing in green technologies may benefit from tax exemptions or reductions
(PIS/COFINS, IPI, ICMS) on industries, operations or processes involving biodiesel, ethanol, solar and
wind energy.
Land can be obtained as capital grants from local governments.
3.4.1 Information technology
According to the Laws n° 8.248, 10.176 and 11.077 (Lei de Informática), legal entities involved in the
production of computer hardware may benefit from a tax incentive reducing IPI on some goods by
80% or 95%, depending on where the company is located. The North, Northeast and Central-West
regions typically offer higher reductions. To retain this benefit, firms must invest between 4.00% and
4.35% of annual revenues generated by the eligible products in R&D.
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
4. Business organisations available to
foreigners
4.1 Legal entities
The incorporation of a subsidiary is the most common way for foreign investors to enter the
Brazilian market. Registration with the Social Security System and the Federal, State and Municipal
Tax authorities is compulsory and all types of legal entities may be adopted.
The two most common legal structures used in Brazil are the LLC (Limitada) and Corporation
(Sociedade Anônima). The main characteristics are briefly presented below:
Corporate capital
Partners
Management
Dividends
Limitadas (Ltda)
Sociedades Anônimas (SA)
Limited Liability Company
Corporation
No minimum capital requirement.*
Original full subscription and paying-up of 10% or more in cash.
Full paying-up within 5 years or sooner in case of capital increase.
Divided into quotas with fixed
Divided into negotiable shares.
price or different unit prices.
At least two original quota/share-holders (resident or nonresident individual or entity), but the second can hold a minimal
interest.
Liability limited to contributions Liability limited to
contributions.
after full paying-up of the
capital.
Investors must empower a resident legal representative and get a
taxpayer registration number (CPF for individuals and CNPJ for
entities).
Supervisory Board (“Conselho Fiscal”) is optional.
Board of Directors (Conselho de Board of Directors (Conselho de
Administração) is optional.
Administração, three members
at least, resident individuals
and shareholders) is mandatory
for publicly held corporations
only.
Management Board (Diretoria)
with two members at least
(resident individuals, not
necessarily shareholders).
Under the Brazilian Civil Code, non-proportional distribution of
profits is authorised
According to specific disclosure
in the bylaws, shareholders
have the right to receive a
compulsory minimum amount
of dividends.
Common choice for firms with
May be privately or publicly
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
Others
few owners and no intention to
raise public funds.
Fewer administrative processes
are required than for a
corporation.
held.
Supervised by the CVM
(Securities and Exchange
Commission) in case of a SA
publicly held.
SA is necessary for financial
institutions.
* Except for specific sectors (financial sector) or situations (obtaining a permanent visa for an entity managed
by a non-resident person).
These legal structures give a foreign investor the opportunity to maintain more control on its
activities in comparison to commercial agreements (see section 4.2). They also assist in limiting
shareholders’ responsibilities for Brazilian operations (which is not the case for a branch
establishment, considered as a dependent entity from the foreign parent company). Furthermore, to
establish a branch of a foreign entity in Brazil requires special authorisation from the Ministry of
Development, Industry and Commerce (MDIC). As a result of the many administrative processes, few
companies select this route.
4.2 Commercial agreements
Aside from legal structures, commercial agreement options, such as distribution or sales
representation, offer many benefits. These include saving time and reducing initial investments,
especially when compared to creating or acquiring a legal structure.
For legal purposes, distribution agreements, in which the distributor takes possession of the
products, should disclose:




A precise definition of the products
The delimitated area and exclusivity conditions
The duration of the commercial relationship and
Any advertising and trademark license issues.
According to the Brazilian Civil Code, if no term has been agreed and disclosed at the outset, the
agreement is considered to have an indefinite duration and can only be terminated by giving 90-days
prior notice.
In sales representation agreements (without transfer of ownership), foreign companies should
protect any know-how, patent or trademark at the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI).
In both situations, these agreements may present legal risks. Both parties should address these at
the beginning of the commercial relationship. This is equally true for operational issues, as the
foreign entity may not have efficient control on the distribution policies locally applied by its
distributor.
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5. Setting up and running business
organisations
Foreign investors must comply with the same tax, legal, labour, environmental and other regulations
set for companies or individuals conducting business in Brazil. See the table in section 4.1, which
outlines the legal formalities for establishing a Limited Liability Company and a Corporation.
5.1 Accounting and audit standards
5.1.1 Brazilian GAAP and IFRS
Brazilian accounting and audit standards have progressively been converging with the International
Financial Reporting Standards (IAS/IFRS) for the last half-decade, although a few differences remain,
including disclosure requirements and options allowed.
The Brazilian Committee of Accounting Pronouncements (CPC), in charge of the conversion plan,
translated almost integrally the international standards to create the new Brazilian standards
(Brazilian GAAP or CPCs).
To be granted legal effects, these standards are presented for approval or rejection to the Federal
Board of Accountancy (CFC) and the regulation main agencies (CVM, SUSEP, ANEEL). Depending on
the decision of these entities, rules are applied by each sector accordingly. In addition, standards
cannot be contradict the Corporate Law.
For example, in order to converge respectively with IAS 16 and 38, CPC 27 and CPC4 allowed the
revaluation of fixed assets to fair value to the extent permitted by law, whereas the Brazilian
Corporate Law no. 6.404, amended by Law no.11.638, excluded the revaluation from its context,
thereby leaving room for interpretation and consideration of the accounting principles.
It’s essential to note that the conversion plan is still in progress and that further evolutions will
occur. For instance CPC 19 recently changed in order to adapt to IAS 31, by allowing both the
proportionate consolidation and the equity method in Joint Ventures’ consolidation. Before that,
only the proportionate option was permitted in Brazil. However IFRS 11 intends to replace IAS 31
from January 2013 and would only recognise the equity method. As a result, Brazilian standards will
also evolve.
All Brazilian financial statements must be prepared in compliance with Brazilian GAAP whatever the
company’s size, providing a true representation of the Company’s performance.
More specifically, listed companies, financial institutions and insurance companies must prepare
their consolidated financial statements in full compliance with IFRS and their statutory reports in
accordance with Brazilian GAAP.
5.1.2 The Equity method
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Equity method should be used in individual financial statements, and not only as a consolidation
method, when the investor has a significant influence on the management of the investment and
the investment is relevant.
5.2 Audit requirements
Financial statements for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are not required to be audited
by an independent auditor, providing the SME is not a listed company, insurance company,
investment fund or financial institution over the jurisdiction of the Central Bank.
A SME is a legal entity or a group of entities under common control, whose total assets are below R$
240 million or presenting an annual revenue below R$ 300 million.
Annual financial statements of ‘large companies’ must be audited by an independent auditor. A
‘large company’ is a legal entity or a group of entities under common control, whose total assets are
over R$ 240 million or presenting an annual gross revenue over R$ 300 million.
Publication is only mandatory for corporations (SA), not limitadas (Ltda). Audit and publication
requirements are compulsory for all listed companies, insurance companies, investment funds and
financial institutions over the jurisdiction of the Central Bank. Quarterly financial reports are
required for listed companies, financial institutions and insurance companies, and biannual audit
reports are compulsory for financial institutions and insurance companies.
SMEs whose annual revenue is below R$ 48 million can opt for a simplified corporate income tax
regime, the Presumed Profit Regime. Under this regime, income tax is calculated on the basis of the
gross revenue. To this extent, the quality and updating of the profit and loss below gross revenue is
not a major stake for the income tax declaration.
It is important to note that Brazilian tax authorities do not require audited financial statements, but
some fiscal obligations must of course be respected, as covered in section 5.3.
5.3 Fiscal reporting obligations
Brazilian companies are subject to multiple electronic and paper filings:


SPED: public system of digital bookkeeping, which aims to replace paper copies of invoices
and tax records with electronic files. SPED can be defined as an instrument that unifies
reception, validation, storage and legalisation of records and documents that are part of the
accounting and tax bookkeeping of companies, through a single computerised flow of data.
Such documentation can comprise several accounting and tax books, such as the general
ledger, the general journal, balances and trial balances, inflow and outflow books, inventory
book, ICMS and IPI calculation registers, DIPJ, DACON, GIA, etc. The general ledger, the
general journal, balances and trial balances must be annually transmitted by taxpayers to
the SPED system by means of Digital Bookkeeping (ECD).
Brazilian legal entities must file an annual corporate income tax return (DIPJ) generally by
30 June of the following calendar year. This filing includes information about the IRPJ, CSLL
and IPI. When the IRPJ and the CSLL are calculated monthly, prepayments must be paid by
the last working day of the following month. Any amounts of IRPJ and CSLL due for the year
(exceeding the prepayments performed) must be paid by the last working day of January of
the following year.
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


GIA (ICMS Calculation Information Form) and SINTEGRA (Integrated Goods and Services
Interstate Operations Information System) must be filed monthly by the taxpayer. In the
State of São Paulo, the GIA is due from the 16th up to the 19th day of the following month,
depending on the final number of state registration (‘inscrição estadual’). The SINTEGRA
must be remitted to the State tax authorities before the 15th day of the following month.
DACON (Demonstrative of Calculation of Social Contributions – PIS/COFINS) must be filed
monthly or twice a year by the taxpayer. The monthly DACON is due by the fifth day of the
second month following the month of reference. The DACON must be delivered twice a
year; once in October (in relation to the first business semester), and once in April of the
following year (in relation to the second business semester).
The DIRF (Declaration of Withholding Income Tax - Declaração do Imposto de Renda
Retido na Fonte) must be filed by the taxpayer annually. For the 2011 calendar year, the
DIRF had to be submitted by the 29 February 2012.
Failure to comply with these fiscal reporting obligations could incur financial penalties.
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6. Corporate taxes and social charges
The Federal Tax Code of 1966 and the Federal Constitution of 1988 define the main principles of the
Brazilian tax system, whereby taxes are levied on taxpayers at federal, state and municipal level.
The Brazilian Federal Revenue Bureau (RFB) is an entity of the Ministry of Economy (Ministério da
Fazenda) and supervises the federal tax system. Smaller, similar agencies monitor the tax system in
all of the states and main municipalities.
Brazilian tax legislation can be viewed as quite complex. In addition to various collection levels, the
many rules change frequently and taxation is relatively high. Accurate information, advisory and
planning are essential in order to benefit from investment opportunities.
6.1 General principles
The fiscal year always corresponds to the calendar year (1 January to 31 December). It is enforced by
Brazilian tax law, regardless of the corporate year chosen by the company for reporting purposes.
Apart from instances of fraud, where it does not apply, the statute of limitation for most taxes and
social charges in Brazil is five years. Federal, state and municipal tax authorities may perform
inspections, regardless of whether certain taxes or periods were already inspected.
Tax legislation and jurisprudence gives the owner of the operating assets responsibility to pay
current and previous taxes, as long as he/she retains the capacity to generate earnings from these
assets. This means that entities resulting from transformation, merger and spin-off or exploiting a
continuing business (despite being under a different name or proprietorship) will be liable for past
tax obligations of the original entity or business.
The ‘tax clearance’ concept does not exist in Brazil. This means that the risk only ends when the
statute of the 5-year limitation period has passed. Responsibility is generally transferred with the
transfer of activity, irrespective of the legal form of an investment (asset deal vs. share deal).
Unpaid tax liabilities, especially for Federal taxes are subject to interest generally based on the SELIC
rate (Special System for Settlement and Custody) defined by the Central Bank of Brazil (as of May
2012 this was approximately 8.5% annually in May 2012).
For State and Municipal tax liabilities, interest is usually based on the IPCA rate (Amplified
Consumer Price Index) defined by the IBGE (Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística). In May
2012, this was approximately 5% annually.
Legal entities are also subject to penalties, which can range from between 20% (voluntary payment
before tax inspection) up to 150% (in fraud cases), with an intermediary rate of 75% in cases of an
assessment in the absence of fraud. The 75% and 150% rates can be halved if the taxpayer pays
without any challenge and within a 30 days period following the assessment notification.
6.2 Corporate income tax
Brazilian legal entities operating for profit are subject to corporate income taxes. These are divided
into corporate income tax (IRPJ), and the social contribution on net profit (CSLL), at following rates:
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Income tax rates
Applies to the whole
taxable income
Applies to taxable
income above KR$ 240
Total
IRPJ
15%
10%
25%
CSLL
Total
9%
24%
/
10%
9%
34%
There are four taxation systems that can be applied to net income:
6.2.1 Actual Profit tax regime (annually or quarterly based)
6.2.2 Presumed Profit tax regime (quarterly based)
6.2.3 Arbitrated Profit tax regime (quarterly based)
6.2.4 SIMPLES – Simplified tax regime (monthly based).
6.2.1 Actual Profit tax regime
The Actual Profit system is the general rule of profit taxation. It corresponds to the taxation of the
accounting net profit after adjustments defined by the tax legislation (elimination of non-taxable
revenues and reintegration of non-deductible expenses). In corporate regulation in Brazil, expenses
must be necessary and relate to the company’s operations in order to be deductible expenses. Most
provisions for expenses or losses are not deductible upon booking, with the exception of provisions
for vacation pay or 13th salary.
All accounting records and details of the tax calculation must be kept in the Taxable Income Control
Register (LALUR). Estimate payments to the annual regime should be made on a monthly basis
(estimate), except if accumulated payments until the month previous exceeds the amount due in the
current year.
The Actual Profit tax regime allows tax losses to be carried forward. There are no time restrictions,
but a carry forward is limited to 30% of the taxable income in that year. Carry backs are not
permitted by Brazilian tax legislation.
6.2.2 Presumed Profit tax regime
Companies with annual gross revenues below R$ 48 million (among other terms and conditions) can
opt to tax a ‘presumed’ net profit. This is determined as a percentage of the gross revenue earned.
The actual percentage applied depends on the nature of the activity performed by the company,
independent of whether the company has registered a net profit or net loss in the financial
statements.
Presumed Profit as a percentage of revenues
Revenues
Sales of goods
Services rendered
Other revenues
Presumed profit for IRPJ
8%
32%
100%
Presumed profit for CSLL
12%
32%
100%
After application of the above percentages on revenues, the corporate income tax rates are applied
to the presumed profit amount (25% for IRPJ and 9% for CSLL).
6.2.3 Arbitrated Profit tax regime
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If the accounting registers are not reliable, the tax authorities may arbitrate the taxable income
applying the revenue percentages. These are similar to the Presumed Profit method, increased by
20% for IRPJ, resulting in:
Arbitrated Profit as a percentage of revenues
Revenues
Sales of goods
Services rendered
Other revenues
Arbitrated profit for IRPJ
9.6%
38.4%
100%
Arbitrated profit for CSLL
12%
32%
100%
After application of the above percentages on revenues, the corporate income tax rates are applied
to the arbitrated profit amount (25% for IRPJ and 9% for CSLL).
6.2.4 SIMPLES (simplified tax regime)
The SIMPLES is a unified regime for the payment of Federal, State and Municipal tax and labour
taxes. When utilised, this regime replaces all other payment regimes, except taxes on imports and
financial operations. The tax rate applied varies from 4.0% to 22.9%, depending on the entity’s
activity and revenues. Only companies with annual gross revenues below R$ 3.6 million and
operating in specific industry sectors, such as small businesses, small service providers, small
industries and family companies may opt for this simplified tax system.
Export companies that opt for SIMPLES may report up to R$ 7.2 million of gross revenues, providing
the domestic revenues fall under the R$ 3.6 million limit.
6.2.5 Goodwill Amortization
For Corporate Income Tax purposes, under certain terms and conditions, goodwill generated by an
acquisition and relating to expected future profitability can be amortized over five years (or more)
after the merger or reverse merger between the acquirer and acquired company. Before the merger,
the goodwill is non-deductible. Intangible assets are not subject to amortization for tax purposes and
are only tax deductible upon the sale of the respective asset or return to the shareholder.
6.3 Federal Social Contributions on gross revenues (PIS /COFINS)
The PIS and COFINS are federal social contributions due on the monthly gross revenues, except
export revenues, and are among other benefits provided for by Brazilian Corporate Income Tax law).
Determining the rates and systems of PIS/COFINS varies according to:




The regime adopted by the company for corporate income taxes, including Actual Profit,
Presumed Profit, Arbitrated Profit and SIMPLES
The nature of goods, trading operation or business performed by the company - the
PIS/COFINS system can be cumulative or non-cumulative
The cumulative system, generally applicable to companies that opted for the Presumed/
Arbitrated Profit, is based on a default tax rate of 3.65% (0.65% for PIS and 3.00% for
COFINS), without the possibility of credits on purchases.
The non-cumulative system, generally applicable to companies that adopt the Actual Profit
regime, is based on a default tax rate of 9.25% (1.65% for PIS and 7.60% for COFINS), with
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the possibility of credits at the same rate on purchases, services acquired and some
expenses, as defined by legislation. In addition, there are some increased tax rates for
certain industry sectors and reduced tax rates to incentivise other sectors defined by the
Brazilian government. PIS/COFINS are also due on the import of goods and services, applying
a tax rate of 9.25%, which is independent of the regime of taxation of income adopted by
the company.
With the exception of sectors granted specific treatment, the application of PIS/COFINS to gross
revenues by the Corporate Income Tax option can be summarised as:
Regime of taxation on income
Domestic gross revenues
Export gross revenues
Financial revenues
Interests on net equity
Other revenues (nonoperational revenues)
Sale of fixed assets
Calculation of credits on
acquisition of goods for resale
or inputs
Actual Profit (PIS/COFINS noncumulative
9.25%
0%
0%
9.25%
9.25%
Presumed/Arbitrated Profit
(PIS/COFINS cumulative)
3.65%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
Allowed
0%
Forbidden
Illustrative impact of the tax regime on IRPJ/CSLL & PIS/COFINS
P&L (services company)
KR$
Gross Sales (A)
Rates
3.65%
Operating costs
PIS/COFINS credits
EBIT
Financial Income
Income Tax
Rates
IRPJ/CSLL
Net Income
Tax Charge
Actual Profit
Presumed Profit
1,000
9.25%
(93)
(700)
42
250
20
270
34.00%
(92)
178
142
1,000
3.65%
(37)
(700)
Forbidden
264
20
284
24%x32%x(A)
(109)
175
145
Regardless of gross sales thresholds or tax exemptions, the choice of the optimised tax regime
should only be made while considering both PIS/COFINS and IRPJ/CSLL differentiated rates in each
scenario. Indeed, higher PIS/COFINS rates in the Actual Profit tax regime may be counterbalanced by
tax credits and a more beneficial income tax exposure, depending on profitability perspectives. Such
an option can be updated in the beginning of each fiscal year, basing decisions on assessing the sales
and profitability levels and depending on the company’s activity.
6.4 Other Federal, State and Municipal taxes and contributions
6.4.1 Tax on Industrialized Products (IPI)
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The Federal tax on industrialized products (IPI) is levied on the sales of industrial products in the
country, or on the importation of raw material, semi-finished or finished goods for production or
resale.
All types of products are classified in the IPI tax rates table (TIPI). Rates applied on the IPI tax base
range from 0 to 300% (tobacco for example). Considering that this tax has a regulatory
characteristic, the rates can be reduced by the government (by Decree) offering greater flexibility to
incentivise determined industries.
The IPI taxpayer can usually calculate IPI credits on expenses relating to production costs (for
example, raw material, intermediate material and packaging material).
6.4.2 Contribution for Intervening in the Economic Domain (CIDE)
The CIDE is a Federal contribution levied on the importation of services in relation to technology
transfers or specialist technical or administrative services. Usually, CIDE is due by Brazilian entities
that hold a license of use or entities that have acquired technological knowledge (including
agreements relating to exploitation of patents, brands use and technology supply and technical
assistance services). The regular CIDE tax rate is 10% on the amounts paid or credited to
beneficiaries abroad and the tax liability is due by the Brazilian entity.
6.4.3 Tax on Financial Operations (IOF)
This Federal tax applies to:



Credit and securities transactions (0 to 1.5% a day)
Exchange and insurance transactions (0 to 25%, but 7.38% for the majority of insurance
operations)
Gold transactions (1%) performed trough financial institutions.
Intercompany loans are subject to IOF as well (up to 1.5 % of the nominal amount).
6.4.4 State Tax on Circulation of Goods (ICMS)
The ICMS is a State tax levied on the importation of products and circulation of goods, interstate and
inter-municipal transportation and communication services. As a State tax, the rates and its rules
may vary in each State of the Federation (26 States and the Federal District of Brasilia). See section 9
for details).
6.4.5 Municipal Service Tax (ISS)
The tax on services of any nature (services tax ISS) is a Municipal and cumulative non-deductible tax
which is levied on gross revenues of services rendered (except for communication services and intermunicipal transportation).
The tax rates range from 2% to 5%, depending on the Municipality in which the company is
established and on the type of services rendered. Under certain conditions, ISS may be due to the
Municipality where the service is effectively performed (for example, on site works). Cities decide to
apply a rate depending on services, but the rate is always between 2% and 5%. In the Municipalities
of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, for example, ISS is calculated at a standard rate of 5% for the
majority of services subject to ISS.
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Revenues obtained from exported services usually are exempt from ISS, since the economic
outcome or the benefit of the services rendered should be observed abroad. Imported services are
subject to the taxation of ISS with a tax rate that ranges from 2% to 5% in accordance to the
Municipality in which the company is established.
6.4.6 The ‘gross-up’ taxation system
Most taxes are calculated on a tax base including the tax itself (the ‘gross’ value including taxes).
Therefore, as illustrated below, the effective tax rates if computed on the net value are higher than
the officially announced rates. Moreover, the tax base of ICMS may be dependent on the identity of
the purchaser, as the rate is applied on the value including IPI in cases of a sale to a final user.
Sale to an intermediary user
Rate
Total for client
IPI
10%
Product value
(invoice)
ICMS
18%
PIS
1.65%
COFINS
7.60%
Net value
ICMS rate compared to net
value
PIS rate compared to net value
COFINS rate compared to net
value
Value
110
10
100
18
1.65
7.6
72.75
24.7%
2.3%
10.4%
Sale to final user/consumer
Rate
Total for client
IPI
10%
Product value
(invoice)
18%
1.65%
7.60%
ICMS rate compared to net
value
PIS rate compared to net value
COFINS rate compared to net
value
Value
110
10
100
19.8
1.65
7.6
70.95
27.9%
2.3%
10.7%
6.5 Transfer Pricing
Brazilian tax legislation relating to transfer pricing (TP) requires demonstrating the adequacy of the
prices with foreign related parties for the following operations:



Import of goods, services and rights
Export of goods, services and rights
Interest payments on loan agreements not registered with the Brazilian Central Bank.
TP rules apply to international transactions with related parties and to transactions with entities
established in ‘privileged tax’ jurisdictions (see list in appendix). A ‘privileged tax’ jurisdiction is
defined as:
i.
ii.
iii.
not taxing income and earnings from abroad (or taxing them at less than 20%)
not permitting access and limiting transparency on transactions, structure, ownership, and
by offering tax privileges to non-resident individuals or entities without any economic
activity.
The Brazilian TP rules reveal substantial differences when compared to the OECD transfer pricing
standards, notably that instead of the arm’s length principle, which is not provided for, fixed profit
margins should be used to determine the transfer price. The main methods used to demonstrate
that the price is appropriated (or to calculate the amount of the adjustment fixed by law) are:
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


Importation:
o compare with the acquisition price practiced with independent parties(PIC);
o demonstrate that in the resale operation there is a minimum profit of 20% (resale of
goods) to 60% (sales of manufactured goods made in Brazil with imported inputs)
(PRL)
o demonstrate that the profit obtained by the related company in the country of the
origin of the goods does not exceed 0%.
Exportation:
o demonstrate that the export price is equivalent to 90% or more of the price
practiced in the internal market
o compare with exportation prices in operations with independent parties (PVEx)
o demonstrate that the price practiced in the wholesale market in the country of
destination of the goods includes a maximum profit of 15% (PVA)
o demonstrate that the price practiced in the retail market in the country of
destination of the goods includes a maximum profit of 30% (PVV)
o demonstrate that, in Brazil, a mark up of at least 15% is applied on the cost of
production or acquisition.
Payment of interests:
o a maximum interest rate equivalent to Libor (six months) plus a spread of 3% per
year is allowed.
6.6 Consolidation or group taxation
There are no rules specific to tax consolidation. Federal, State and Municipal authorities in Brazil will
apply separate taxations to each company and branch/establishment of the same company.
6.7 Dividends and interest
Dividends are not currently subject to withholding taxation. Interest paid to non-residents are
generally subject to a 15% withholding tax, or 25% if they are based in a tax haven jurisdiction (see
appendix for list).
6.8 Thin capitalisation
On 16 December 2009, the Brazilian Government published Provisional Measure (PM) 472, which,
among other provisions, includes new thin capitalisation rules. These can be summarised as:


Interest paid or credited by a Brazilian entity to a related party (individual or legal entity),
not residing or domiciled in a tax haven jurisdiction, may only be deducted for income tax
purposes if:
i. the interest expense is viewed as necessary for the activities of the local
entity and
ii. the amount of debt granted by the related party does not exceed twice the
amount of its participation in the net equity of the Brazilian entity.
A second test also needs to be performed, comprising the total amount of debts with any
foreign related party. If, under either ‘debt/equity’ test, a 2:1 ratio is exceeded, the portion
of interest relating to the excess debt amount cannot be deducted for Brazilian income tax
purposes.
Similar provisions also apply to interest paid or credited by a Brazilian entity to an individual
or legal entity (it doesn’t need to be a related party) resident or domiciled in a tax haven or
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favourable tax regime jurisdiction. In these cases, the interest expense will only be
deductible for Brazilian income tax purposes if:
i.
the expense is viewed as necessary and
ii.
the amount of the debt does not exceed 30% of the Brazilian entity’s net
equity.
A second test also needs to be performed, comprising the total amount of debts with any
foreign party resident or domiciled in a tax haven jurisdiction. If, under either ‘debt/equity’
test, the 30% of net equity threshold is exceeded, the excess interest cannot be deducted for
Brazilian income tax purposes. All provisions apply to debt financing transactions, regardless
of whether it is registered by the BACEN.
6.9 Interest on net equity
Brazilian tax legislation allows the calculation of interests on net equity to be paid to shareholders,
instead of dividends. These interests are determined based on the Long Term Interest Rate (TJLP),
applied to the net equity of the Brazilian entity. Brazilian tax authorities issue the TJLP. In May 2012,
the annual rate was 6%.
In addition, interest earned on net equity is a deductible expense for IRPJ and CSLL purposes,
reducing the income tax burden and consequently the effective tax rate. The total interest that can
be deducted is limited to 50% of the net income of the period, or 50% of the accumulated profits
plus the reserves (the larger sum out of the two). Unlike the treatment of dividends, the Brazilian
entity is obliged to collect 15% withholding tax at the time the interest is paid on capital abroad.
6.10 Other tax considerations
6.10.1 Asset deal vs. Share deal


Main tax aspects of an asset deal:
o Income tax and social contributions apply to both operational and non-operational
gains resulting from the sale of assets (usually 34%)
o PIS/COFINS may apply, depending on the asset type
o ICMS applies to the transfer of inventory and generates tax credits, but does not
generally apply to fixed assets
o IPI applies to both the transfer of inventory and fixed assets in the case of direct
importation or manufacturing by the seller
o A real estate tax (ITBI) may also apply to property transfers.
Share deals occur more frequently, as they require fewer documents and are taxed less:
o Income tax and social contributions apply to net profit sales by Brazilian entities
o PIS/COFINS, ICMS and IPI do not apply, neither do stamp duties or transfer taxes
o A 15% withholding tax applies if the seller is an individual; the rate may increase to
25% in the case of a non-resident entity
o Gains from the sale of publicly traded shares incur a 20% tax, but are exempt to nonresidents, unless they are listed in a privileged tax jurisdiction (see appendix for list).
6.10.2 Royalties and copyrights
A 15% withholding tax, plus the 10% CIDE generally apply to royalties and copyrights paid to nonresidents. If the beneficiary resides in a tax haven jurisdiction (see appendix for list), the rate
increases to 25%.
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6.10.3 Importation of services
The taxation of services rendered by a foreign company (importation of services) depends on their
nature. Technical services (involving specialist knowledge and performed by independent
professionals or artists) incur a withholding 15% tax and a 10% CIDE tax, whereas non-technical
services incur a 25% withholding tax. PIS/COFINS at the full rate (9.25%) and ISS are applied on all
types of services.
In these instances, it is important for the entity to question whether the imported service is
required. For example, a technical service fee invoice of US$ 1,000 issued by a foreign company,
under the assumption of a 5% ISS rate, the Brazilian entity will withhold 15% of IRRF (therefore only
US$ 850 will be paid to the foreign entity) and will pay ISS, PIS/COFINS and CIDE to the value of US$
257.
It’s equally important to note that for both Royalties and Service Fees involving the transfer of
technology, specific conditions of remittance and deductibility must be respected.
6.10.4 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) rules
Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) rules differ to those applied in other countries, as they are
relatively new to Brazil.
Financial statements of the foreign entity must be translated into Brazilian currency and profits
generated must be included in the 31 December financial statement prepared by the Brazilian firm.
In certain circumstances, such as liquidation, they may be subject to taxation.
Consolidation of profits and losses of foreign subsidiaries is generally not permitted for Brazilian tax
purposes.
6.10.5 Capital gains tax
Following the sale of an asset located in Brazil, capital gains of residents incur the usual corporate
income tax rate of 34%, while capital gains of non-residents are subject to a 15% withholding tax
(25% if a tax haven resident).
6.10.6 Declaration of Brazilian Capital abroad for residents (DCBE)
All individuals and entities based, domiciled or residing in Brazil must declare to the Brazilian Central
Bank all values (currency assets, investments, property, rights, etc.) equal to or greater than US$
100,000 owned out of the national territory. This obligation is fulfilled by completing and submitting
the Declaration of Brazilian Capital Abroad form (DCBE) on an annual basis.
6.11 Labour laws
In 1943, Brazil initiated a general consolidation of labour laws that led to the CLT decree
(Consolidação das Leis do Trabalho). This system has governed most labour relationships until now,
although some specific regulations have since been adopted that apply to certain worker categories.
6.11.1 Hiring, dismissal and litigation
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In Brazil, an employment trial period cannot exceed 90 days. Contracts are based on 44 hours a
week.
In cases of dismissal, an employer must respect a prior notice of 30 days. If not, the employer faces a
one-month salary penalty, which corresponds to the minimum amount an employee can receive.
This indemnity may increase to three months if the employee has worked in the company for 20
years or more.
An employer must also pay the eventual holiday and 13th salary to the employee.
If dismissed without good reason (‘justa causa’), the employee is entitled to receive the total sum of
his or her Severance Indemnity Fund account (FGTS account) plus an additional 40% (see section
6.12). In cases of justified dismissal or resignation, the employee does not receive this amount. It’s
important to note that the employer is not obliged to reclassify dismissed employees.
In order to hire a foreign employee as a manager or director, a permanent visa is required, in
addition to minimum capital investment requirements. For a foreign employee, a renewable work
visa of two years must be obtained. Foreign workers may be hired as expatriates or with local
contracts.
6.11.2 Health insurance
In cases of employee illness, the company must pay the employees salary for up to 15 days. After
this time period, the payment is then made by Brazilian social security.
Brazil operates two systems of Health Insurance: public and private.
The public one is mandatory and financed by employees and employers and every employee has
access to it. Employers have to pay up to 28.8% of the payroll to social security authorities and
withhold between 8% and 11% of gross wages from the employees (limited to R$ 430.78 per month
in 2012).
In the private system, usually established by collective labour agreements or granted by the
employers, the payment is made by the company and may be partially financed by the employees,
depending on the policy adopted by the employer.
6.11 3 Remuneration and bonuses
In 2012, the minimum wage in Brazil was increased from R$ 545 to R$ 622, an increase of over 15%.
Each year, every employee is entitled to receive one additional salary (13th salary or Christmas
bonus) at the end of the civil year (half before the end of November and the remaining half before
Christmas Day).
Overtime hours are paid at between 50% and 100% more than normal hours. Dangerous or night
shift workers receive between 20% and 40% more.
In terms of profit sharing, a Brazilian law does exist, so no precise instruction is given. As a
consequence, not all companies distribute this kind of benefit, but they may be encouraged to do so
if the company's branches have negotiated profit sharing agreements.
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6.11.4 Pensions and vacations
Every employee receives a vacation period of 30 calendar days per year. During the holiday, an
employee’s salary is increased by one-third.
The mandatory defined public pension contribution system is valid for all employees and there is a
voluntary supplementary scheme offered by employers. The contribution is included in the INSS tax
payments (see table in section 6.12).
6.12 Labour unions and collective agreements
Collective labour agreements generally exist for each branch and employee category. Labour Unions
are generally regarded as more important and powerful in industries like transport, automobile and
steel. The main entities are CGT (Central Geral dos Trabalhadores), CUT (Central Única dos
Trabalhadores) and Força Sindical.
Employees are free to choose whether or not to join a union. Those that do must pay an annual
contribution to the union, which is directly withheld by the company once a year (equivalent to one
day’s salary).
6.13 Social Security contributions
To finance the Brazilian Social Security system (INSS), companies pay a monthly fee equivalent to
20% of each employees’ gross salary. This percentage may be increased by other rates, for example:


1% to 3% insurance for work accidents (RAT)
Up to 5.8% for other entities and funds (Education allowance, INCRA, SENAI, SESI, etc.)
Employees’ contribution (8% to 11% of the gross salary) is directly withheld by the employer.
Furthermore, employers have to make a monthly deposit equivalent to 8% of each employees’ gross
salary in order to finance the Government Severance Indemnity Fund for Employees (FGTS). The
money is blocked on a personal account at the Caixa Econômica Federal. However, the employee
may withdraw it if he/she:



Retires
Intends to buy a real estate property, or
Is diagnosed with a serious disease/illness.
The employee can also gain access to the FGTS in the case of any lawful unjustified dismissal made
by the company. In this specific instance, the employer will also pay the employee an additional 40%
penalty (of the correspondent’s FGTS account) and an additional 10% penalty to the government.
The main charges and taxes on payroll are:
Description
INSS (Brazil’s Social Security system)
SESI
SENAI
INCRA
Rate (%)
20.0%
1.5%
1.0%
0.2%
Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
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RAT (insurance for work accidents)
Education allowance
SEBRAE
FGTS (Government Severance Indemnity Fund
for Employees)
1.0% to 3%
2.5%
0.6%
8.0%
Depending on the sector and activity, with the exception of the compulsory INSS and FGTS
contributions, some taxes may not apply.
If the employee is a director or manager who receives a ‘pró-labore’ and not a standard salary, the
company has to only pay INSS (20%).
6.13.1 INSS Employee Contribution (2012)
Salary base (R$)
Up to 1,174.86
1,174.87 to 1,958.10
1,958.11 to 3,916.20
Rate (%)
8.0%
9.0%
11.0% 7
The INSS maximum base is R$ 3,916.20.
6.13.2 Illustrative examples of employer labour costs
For a classic employee remuneration (CLT contract)
(a) Monthly gross salary
Base INSS
(b) INSS Employee (11% on base INSS)
INSS Company (20% on gross salary)
SESI (1.5%)
SENAI (1.0%
INCRA (0.2%)
RAT (3.0%)
Education allowance (2.5%)
SEBRAE (0.6%)
FGTS (8%)
(c) Total payroll charges (36.8% on gross salary)
Number of dependents
Deduction per dependent
(d) Total dependents deduction
(e) Base IRRF (a-b-d)
(f) IRRF e* 27.5% - 756.53
(R$)
13,055.56
3,916.20
430.78
2,611.11
195.83
130.56
26.11
391.67
326.39
78.33
1,044.44
4,804.45
2
164.56
329.12
12,295.66
2,624.78
Net salary (a-b-f)
10,000.00
(g) Christmas bonus cost (8.33%)
(h) Holiday additional cost (2.77%)
1,087.53
361.64
7
Source: Ministérios da Fazenda e da Previdência Social
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Total cost for the company (a+c+g+h)
19,309.17
For a Pró-labore remuneration (managerial function)
(a) Monthly gross salary
Base INSS
(b) INSS Manager (11% on base INSS)
INSS Company (20% on gross salary)
Number of dependents
Deduction per dependent
(d) Total dependents deduction
(e) Base IRRF (a-b-d)
(f) IRRF e* 27.5% - 756.53
(R$)
13,055.56
3,916.20
430.78
2,611.11
2
164.56
329.12
12,295.66
2,624.78
Net salary / Pró-labore (a-b-f)
Total cost for the company (a+c)
10,000.00
15,666.67
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7. Personal taxation
The income tax rate for individuals in Brazil ranges from 7.5% to the maximum rate of 27.5%. The
rates are progressive and ascendant in relation to the individuals’ annual income. The monthly
withholding income tax is based on salary and advances paid over the month. It is calculated on the
gross salary, minus (INSS), with several deductions fixed by law. See the taxable income brackets
below, which currently apply:
Withholding tax (IRRF) 2012
Salary base (R$)
Up to 1,637.11
1,637.12 to 2,453.50
2,453.51 to 3,271.38
3,271.39 to 4,087.65
From 4,087.65
Rate (%)
7.5%
15.0%
22.5%
27.5%
Deduction (R$)
122,78
306,80
552,15
756,53
Individuals must file an annual tax return by 30th April in the year that immediately follows the year
the income was obtained.
Dividends are not subject to taxation.
Tax residence is determined by the actual domicile of the individual. If a foreign resident moves his
or her domicile to Brazil (even on a non-permanent basis) they must register as a Brazilian taxpayer.
Payment of salaries and bonuses out of payroll and use of full time service providers (PJ: Pessoa
Jurídica) with employment characteristics are examples of existing practices. If these are reviewed or
inspected by a tax or labour authority, these operations may be reclassified as labour contracts (CLT)
and authorities may request the payment of unpaid charges (up to the last five years) and interest,
in addition to imposing penalties of up to 150%.
In cases of labour claims made by the employee, the employee may request the payment of
employment benefits (extra hours, holidays, Christmas bonus, etc) from the previous two years of
the employment relationship.
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8. Double taxation agreements
Brazil has a number of Double Taxation Treaties (DTT) in place and the government continues to
negotiate with new jurisdictions.
To benefit from an international tax treaty, Brazilian taxpayers must be able to produce proper
documentation, such as invoices, contracts and records. In addition, a foreign company must supply
a certification of tax residence in order to apply the preferential rates established by the treaties.
Currently, Brazil has nearly 30 DTTs signed, including:
Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland,
France, Hungary, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Peru,
Philippines, Portugal, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine.
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9. Sales and use taxes
9.1 State Tax on Circulation of Goods (ICMS)
The ICMS is a State tax levied on the importation of products and circulation of goods, interstate and
inter-municipal transportation and communication services. As a State tax, the rates and its rules
may vary in each State of the Federation (26 States and the Federal District of Brasilia).
ICMS internal tax rates range from 7 to 19%. These can be increased to 25% in certain situations (for
example, communication services), depending, among other aspects, on the type of good, its origin
and destination, and on regional tax incentives (see ICMS map below). Almost every situation is
specific and has to be checked before importation and/or circulation of goods and services in
Brazil.
It’s important to also note that ICMS applies to internal state as well as interstate operations
(imported and non-imported) and that ICMS credits may be obtained by the company on raw
materials and goods acquired for resale. It is possible to offset this credit against future amounts of
ICMS to be paid. When a company purchases goods that includes ICMS without being a registered
ICMS taxpayer, it will not be eligible for corresponding tax credits.
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The Brazilian government recently unified Brazil’s taxes on interstate trade of imported goods. The
Senate’s Committee for Economic Affairs (Comissão de Assuntos Econômicos - CAE) approved on 17
April 2012 the unification proposal (Resolution 72), and the Senate subsequently agreed the
proposal on 24 April 2012. By applying a unified 4% interstate ICMS to imports (internal state rates
remain unchanged and the law does not concern non-imported products), the government is aiming
to reach its objective of 2% by 2015.
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Brazil – Business and Taxation Guide
As a result of high ICMS rates, several states created local benefits to grant tax reductions and boost
imports performed through their airports and harbours. It has led to the so-called ‘War of Harbors’.
By imposing a unified interstate rate, the government’s goal is to avoid such local incentives.
For information on other trade tax incentives and regimes, including special customs duties and
regimes, please see section 3 of this guide.
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10. Portfolio investments for foreigners
Non-residents investing in financial and capital markets in Brazil will be subject to various
withholding income tax rates on revenues generated from these investments. These are typically:





10% when investing in swap operations, stock funds and future market operations carried
out, with the exception of stock or mercantile exchange markets
15% in other cases, including fixed income investments
0% in cases of capital gains, which are defined as earnings linked to stock, commodities and
other similar transactions, or gold traded. These capital gains do not apply to commodity
exchange markets and gains distributed by foreign investment funds
0% for income obtained through Brazilian government bonds since February 2006 and for
mutual funds whose portfolio is constituted with 98% or more of these bonds
0% for investment in FIPs (Fundos de Investimento em Participação) and FMIEEs (Fundos
Mútuos de Investimento em Empresas Emergentes) or funds investing in these funds’
quotas.
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11. Trusts
No information avaialble at present
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12. Practical information
12.1 Transportation
Brazil is making sizeable investments in its transport infrastructure, although there are
strong regional variations. Most international flights go via Guarulhos International Airport
in São Paulo or Galeão International Airport in Rio de Janeiro. Belo Horizonte is the main
international airport outside Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
12.2 Language
The official language is Portuguese, spoken by 99% of the population. English is increasingly
studied by the population at school and in many international business environments is
spoken and understood. In 2002, Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) was made the official
language of the Brazilian deaf community
12.3 Time relative to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
Brazil has three time zones. The Brasília Time (BRT), the destination visited by most
international tourists (includes Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Brasilia) is three hours behind
GMT. The Amazon Standard Time (AMT) is four hours behind GMT, and the Fernando de
Noronha Archipelago is two hours behind GMT.
Most of the southeast of Brazil observes Daylight Savings Time, including the states of Rio
Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, Parana, Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Espirito Santo, Minas
Gerais, Bahia, Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul and the Federal District. Summer
(daylight saving) time is in effect from midnight of the third Sunday of October each year,
until midnight of the third Sunday of February the following year, in the determined parts of
the country.
12.4 Business hours
Regular business in Brazil is conducted between 9.00am and 7.00pm. Lunch is usually taken
around 2.00pm, and long business lunches are common. Most business offices are closed on
Saturday and Sunday.
12.5 Public holidays
The national statutory holidays observed by businesses and government offices are:





World Day of Peace/New Year’s Day (Confraternização Universal) – 1 January
Easter (Páscoa) – varies according to church calendar
Tiradentes (national hero of Brazil) – 21 April
Labour Day (Dia do Trabalho) - 1 May
Brazilian Independence Day (Independência do Brasil) - 7 September
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



Nossa Senhora Aparecida (Our Lady of Aparecida) – 12 October
All Souls' Day (Finados) – 2 November
Proclamation of the Brazilian Republic (Proclamação da República) - 15 November
(or nearest Monday)
Christmas Day (Natal) - 25 December
Half Day holidays are observed on Christmas Eve (24 December) and New Year's Eve (31
December). Several carnivals are also celebrated.
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13. Appendices
13.1 Privileged tax regimes
Denmark
Hungary
Iceland
Malta
Uruguay
United States of
America
Holding companies without economic activity
Offshore KFT companies
International Trading Companies (ITC)
International Trading Companies (ITC) and International Holding
Companies (IHC)
Sociedad Anonima Financiera de Inversión (SAFI) incorporated until
December 31st, 2010
Limited Liability Companies (LLC) with participation of non-resident
investors and not subject to Federal Income Tax in the USA
NB: Holding Companies from Luxembourg and the Netherlands were removed from the list, as well
as the Entidad de Tenencia de Valores Estranjeros (ETVE) from Spain.
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13.2 Tax haven jurisdictions