The decision by Lula da Silva's government aims to especially protect low-income families, who will be able to spend up to 40% of their income on food.

The Brazilian government has decided to reduce import duties to zero on 11 basic foodstuffs, including meats, sardines, roasted coffee, coffee beans, olive oil, sugar, palm oil, sunflower oil, corn, pasta, and cookies.

The measure, which has already taken effect, is part of the March 6 announcement by Vice President and Minister of Industry Geraldo Alckmin, seeking to implement initiatives that could contribute to increasing food supply and reducing market prices, even if the increase is attributed to climatic and external factors.

The decision by Lula da Silva's government aims to especially protect low-income families, who will be able to spend up to 40% of their income on food.

Tariff reductions could allow for the importation of selected products at lower costs, increasing their availability in the domestic market, facilitating the acquisition of essential products, minimizing the risk of shortages, and guaranteeing decent living conditions for the population.

With the largest offer of selected products in Brazil with zero taxes, the decision also seeks to inhibit price increases, contributing to meeting the inflation target, which has accelerated slightly in recent months.

Furthermore, tariff flexibility can be another factor contributing to other objectives, such as ensuring that imbalances between supply and demand due to climate, geopolitical, currency, or production cost fluctuations are mitigated by imports; expanding supply and predictability for consumers; increasing purchasing power; and contributing to food security, a fundamental pillar of social stability.

The government notes that the measure will be accompanied by other structural actions, preserving the sustainability of the national production chain.