Brazil Further Simplifies Import and Export Procedures

Brazil recently issued a regulation aimed at simplifying and improving the efficiency and agility of import and export procedures. Among other things, the requirement to provide certified copies of documents associated with import licencing processes as well as the approval and withdrawal of the special customs drawback regime and the authorisation of trading companies has been rescinded. Brazil has also eliminated a requirement to submit to the Brazilian Secretariat of Foreign Trade (SECEX) certificates showing the legal status of foreign trade operators already included in official government databases. Other changes entail procedural improvements as well as the ability to submit more documents electronically.