Brazil’s cotton producer association is calling for greater support for natural fibres as lawmakers debate new import tax rules.
The Brazilian Cotton Growers Association (Abrapa) wants Congress to look beyond taxes. It says the debate should also cover textile industry competitiveness, sustainability and the value of natural fibres.
The discussion centres on MP No. 1,357/2026. The measure removes the 20% Import Tax on international online purchases worth up to $50. Congress must approve the measure in September for it to remain valid.
Abrapa also supports Amendment No. 52, which proposes a new CIDE-Têxtil tax. The proposal would apply different tax rates to imported finished textile products based on their synthetic fibre content.
Under the proposal, products with up to 20% synthetic fibres would face a 2% tax. Products with 20% to 50% synthetic fibres would face 5%. The rate would rise to 8% for products with 50% to 80% synthetic fibres. Products with more than 80% synthetic fibres would face a 10% rate.
Abrapa said the plan could encourage the use of materials with lower environmental impact. It could also support Brazil’s natural fibre supply chain.
The association said the measure could benefit cotton as well as silk, linen, sisal and jute. These fibres support rural jobs and local economies across Brazil.
Abrapa also raised concerns about synthetic fibres such as polyester, nylon and acrylic. These materials are made from petroleum-based sources. Their use, washing and disposal can release microplastics into the environment.
Abrapa President Gustavo Piccoli said the issue is about more than taxation. He said Brazil must consider competitiveness, sustainability and the future of its textile chain.
Brazil has a large textile industry and a strong cotton sector. Abrapa said the country should use this position to promote natural and renewable fibres.
The association plans to continue working with Congress during the debate. It aims to provide technical information on synthetic fibres, natural fibres and the wider impact of textile production.
