  
  
WT/TPR/M/432  
8 March 2023 
(23-1651) Page: 1/71 
Trade Policy Review Body  
23 and 25 November 2022   
 
  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
BRAZIL 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Ángel Villalobos Rodríguez (Mexico)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF BRAZIL  ................................ ....... 4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  8 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  13 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF BRAZIL AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ...........  64 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  69 
7  ADOPTION OF TPRB'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2022  ................................ .....................  71 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Brazil  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 432/Add.1  and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 2 - 
 
  1  INTRODUCTORY  REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The eighth  Trade Policy Review of Brazil  was held on 23 and 25  November  2022. The 
Chairperson, H.E. Mr  Ángel Villalobos Rodríguez (Mexico)  welcomed the delegation of Brazil , headed 
by Mr Fernando Meirelles de Azevedo Pimentel , Director of the Trade Policy Department of the 
Ministry of Foreign Affairs ; the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, Dr Muhammad Mujtaba 
Piracha  (Pakistan) . 
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting al so benefited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The Report by Brazil  is contained in document WT/TPR /G/432, and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/ 432. 
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: Oman, 
Thailand, Guatemala, Iceland, Singapore, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Israel, China, Norway, 
United  States, Costa  Rica, Kingdom of  Saudi  Arabia, Colombia, Russian  Federation, European  Union,  
Ukraine, Sri  Lanka, Plurinational  State  of Bolivia, Argentina, Chinese  Taipei, New  Zealand, 
Switzerland, Uruguay, United  Kingdom, Malaysia, Philippines , and India. The following delegations 
submitted written questions after the deadline: Republic  of Korea, Chile, Türkiye , 
Dominican  Republic, Viet  Nam, El  Salvador, Ecuador, Japan, and Indonesia.  
1.5.  The Chairperson started  by recalling some elements of Brazil's previous Review and 
developments since then, as well as by identifying some key issues arising from the advance written 
questions submitted by Members for this TPR.  
1.6.  During the previous TPRB meeting on 17 and 19  July 2017, Members had commended Brazil 
for its sound economic fundamentals and stable financial system as well as for stay ed in the course 
of fiscal responsibility and attract ed substantial foreign investment. For the current Review, Members 
through their adv ance written questions sought information on issues relating to fiscal imbalance ; 
the floating exchange rate system ; labour productivity ; participation in global value chains ; tax 
reform ; labour ; Micro, small and medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs) policy ; and gender and 
indigenous people financial and trade inclusion.  
1.7.  At the time of the previous Review, Members had welcomed Brazil's furthering of its WTO 
commitments and its constructive participation in all areas of WTO work. At the same time, they had 
referr ed to its efforts toward the expansion of MERCOSUR's regional trade agreements. For the 
current Review, several Members requested more details on: Brazil's participation in the WTO 
dispute settlement and its "appeal in the void" initiative; numerous MERCOS UR-related technical 
issues, developments and plans; and Brazil's participation in the Global System of Trade Preferences 
among Developing Countries. Interest was also expressed on developments in Brazil's trade policy 
formulation, objectives and regulator y/institutional framework as well as its foreign direct 
investment and business environment.  
1.8.   With regard to trade policy, at the time of the previous Review, Members had encouraged 
further efforts to address shortcomings in some areas of IPR protection an d enforcement. Concern 
was expressed over Brazil's complex tax regime; the large gap between bound and applied MFN 
tariff rates; the extensive use of non -automatic import licensing and anti -dumping measures; the 
continued reliance on local content and loca l production requirements; support measures or 
programmes in certain manufacturing activities; and market barriers due to operational aspects of 
TBT and SPS systems. For this Review, in their advance written questions, some Members expressed 
interest in le arning more inter alia about: several tariff and binding issues; some internal tax rates 
differentials; the use of trade remedies; certain incentives; several standards and technical 
regulations and SPS issues; state trading, state -owned enterprises and pr ivatization developments; 
government procurement and progress in the accession to the WTO GPA; and, numerous intellectual 
property rights protection matters.  
1.9.  In terms of sectoral trade policies, Members were interested in having more clarity on: 
programmes  to support agricultural production, to mitigate climate change and promote 
environmental sustainability; certain mining and renewable energy issues; non -automatic licensing, WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 3 - 
 
  quotas and other import restrictions for manufactured goods; structural reforms a t the services 
sector; experience and regulation on electronic transfer and payment system; the main regulatory 
changes by "BR do Mar" programme for cabotage; the use of international credit cards in Brazilian 
e-commerce websites; and, the recognition of f oreign qualifications for professional services.  
1.10.   In total, Brazil received 949  advance written questions from 38  delegations for this review, 
out of which 832 were sent within the established deadline, covering a broad range of topics. Prior 
to the meeting, Brazil provided written replies to all questions submitted within the established 
deadline.  
1.11.   The meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trad ing system. It was also an opportune 
moment for Brazil to update the Membership on the impact of COVID -19 on its economy, the 
measures it has taken in response and their outcome. The Chairperson was looked forward to a 
fruitful exchange.  
1.12.   The Chairperson cl osed h is introductory remarks by wishing Brazil  a very successful 
eighth  Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 4 - 
 
  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF BRAZIL (MR  FERNANDO MEIRELLES 
DE AZEVEDO PIMENTEL ) 
2.1.  We would like to thank the Secretariat for their  work and cooperat ion in this TPR exercise. In 
particular, we appreciate the TPR team 's visit to  Brasilia, which allowed for broad consultations with 
a wide number of governmental bodies.  
2.2.  I also would like to thank today 's discussant,  Ambassador H .E. Dr Muhammad  Mujtaba P iracha , 
Permanent Representative of Pakistan, for taking the  time to examine our TPR reports and providing 
all Members with valuable insights and remarks. We really  appreciate your participation and your 
contribution to  a fruitful discussion.  
2.3.  We also appreciate the high degree of Members'  engagement in our TPR. We received more 
than 8 30 questions on a wide variety of areas from many  Members. We replied to all of them  and 
remain open to  clarify further any topic of interest. Written questions received after the deadline will 
also be replied in due course.  
2.4.  The review period under examination (2017 -2021) encompasses an unprecedented challenge 
for the global  economy, - mainly due to the C OVID-19 pandemic -, which had significant 
repercussions on many public policies  in Brazil, as both TPR reports show.  
2.5.  Despite the global slowdown, our economy showed resilience.  The GDP in 2021 responded very 
well to a  successful mix of fiscal policies and com pletely overcame the GDP  loss from year 2020.  
2.6.  In the period under review, Brazil has promoted an ambitious supply -side reform agenda. 
Market friendly structural reforms have been moving ahead despite the pandemic. Some of the most 
significant developments include : institutional reforms; autonomy for the Central Bank; 
privatizations; labour market and pension reform; efficiency and inclus iveness policies in the 
financial sector; new mechanisms to control mandatory spending growth; import tariffs reductions; 
and new laws on sanitations, start-ups, natural gas, and bankruptcy, among others.  
2.7.  Regarding the business environment as a whole, it i s worth highlighting the enactment of the 
Economic Freedom Act, the Regulatory Agencies' Law, and the Business Environment Act.  
2.8.  Trade negotiations and the  WTO also remained central to Brazil 's economic reform agenda . 
2.9.  Brazil has pursued a trade agenda based  on three  pillars: (i)  intensification of the trade 
agreements  network and trade negotiations, including at the WTO;  (ii) modernization of the 
MERCOSUR tariff structure;  and (iii)  trade facilitation.  
2.10.   While there is still a lot of work to be done,  Brazil wa s able to deliver significant outcomes in  
each of these pillars.  
2.11.   The multilateral trading system is a priority for  Brazil's foreign trade policy. Brazil believes 
that well-functioning multilateral trade rules are  essential for the good functioning of the global 
economy and can also contribute to sustainable development.  
2.12.   Over the review period, Brazil has maintained and  enhanced its engagement with the WTO in 
all its  pillars and negotiating formats, seeking to  strengthen and modernize the Organization, while  
not neglecting longstanding issues, such as  agriculture trade.  
2.13.   This commitment to the WTO was  highlighted during the Twelfth Ministerial Conference, as 
well as by Brazil's participation in WTO joint  initiatives.  
2.14.   We expande d our network of extra -regional free trade  agreements, such as the ones with the 
European  Union,  EFTA, Canada, the Republic of Korea , and Singapore, all  of which are very 
comprehensive in their coverage of  issues.  
2.15.   In our last TPR, the Secretariat had expre ssed a  general view that the Brazilian economy was  
"inward -oriented". In this review period, given the  progress we made in deepening our integration WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 5 - 
 
  to world  trade, the Secretariat highlighted the fact that  "trade to GDP" ratio increased from 24.3% 
in 2017  to 39.2% in 2021, with both exports and imports  contributing to that improvement.  
2.16.   In July  2022, jointly with our MERCOSUR partners, we  decided to reduce permanently the 
bloc's Common  External Tariff by 10%. This cut is the most comprehensive unilateral ta riff change 
ever adopted in the bloc since the creation of the Common External Tariff.  
2.17.   Brazil has  continued to  promote food security and the elimination of trade  distortions - such 
as those that exist in trade in  agriculture - that undermine opportunities for  developing countries.  
2.18.   I would like to take the opportunity to talk about a few developments in more detail.  
First, tariffs and trade facilitation  
 
2.19.   All Brazilian trading partners receive at least MFN  tariff treatment with a simple average 
of 9.4%, as of  July 2022, which represents an 18% decline (or 2.2  percentage points) relatively  
to 2017.  In other words, Brazil has managed to further liberalize trade during challenging times for 
the world economy, when many other parts of the world went in a different direction.  
2.20.   In response to the COVID -19 pandemic, Brazil reduced  to zero the MFN import duties on 
certain medical and  protective equipment between March  2020 and  December  2022. As of 
August  2022, the list covers 548  products.  
2.21.   In line with the Economic Freedom Act provisions and  TFA commitments, Brazil has removed 
more than 700 ,000 automatic  and non -automatic import licensing requirements.  
2.22.   We have also reduced from 13 to  5 days the average export time, with estimated annual  
savings of USD  14 billion for the private sector, by implementing a new export process related to 
our single window programme.  
Second, agriculture  
 
2.23.   Agri-business  accounted for almost 27.5% of Brazil 's GDP and generated a surplus of more 
than USD  105 billion in 2021. Family farming employs more than 10  million people in Brazil, which 
represents 67% of all people employed in agriculture. Family farming is also responsible for 23% of 
the total value of Brazilian agricultural production. Brazil is the leading world export er of soybeans, 
sugar, poultry meat, bovine meat,  and orange  juice.  
2.24.   Since the pandemic, Brazil has redoubled its efforts  in favour of a more liberalized agricultural 
sector.  Domestically, we reduced or zeroed tariffs for dozens  of foodstuffs and we have no t applied 
any export  restriction on food, in line with our historic commitment to food security.  
2.25.   At the WTO, Brazil remains focused on fulfilling the reform mandate established in Article  20 
of the Agreement on Agriculture. We were one of the most  active players of agricultural negotiations 
for MC11  and MC12, submitting proposals on domestic support,  public stockholding for food security 
purposes, market  access, and transparency.  
2.26.   Brazil is determined to be a sustainable agricultural producer, contri buting to both global food 
security and sustainability . Brazil is doing this with less, no more subsidies.  
2.27.   Another key area for Brazil was the implementation  and application of the SPS  Agreement 
with a focus on promoting trade of agricultural products and  strengthening the role of the WTO. Our 
authorities, in  the past years, have helped sustain the efforts to  consolidate a reliable, science -based 
and transparent  regulatory system supported by strong institutions.  
2.28.   We continue to be fully engaged in this proc ess as one of  the facilitators of the discussions on 
the role of SPS  Agreement to support food security and more  sustainable food systems.  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 6 - 
 
  Third, MERCOSUR and regional trade agreements  
 
2.29.   Besides the permanent cut in  the bloc's common external tariff, I want to highlight that the 
members of MERCOSUR have signed  trade-related agreements on various issues, such as  trade 
facilitation; geographical indications; trade in  services; digital signatures and elimination of  roami ng 
taxes in telecommunications.  
2.30.   MERCOSUR  has also intensified negotiations on extra -regional  FTAs, such as the ones with 
the EU, EFTA, Canada, the Republic of Korea , and Singapore.  
Fourth, investment  
 
2.31.   Brazil has an open investment regime for FDI, with  national treatment for companies 
established in Brazil  enshrined in our Constitution, and remains, despite  the pandemic, one of  the 
top FDI  destinations in the world.  
2.32.   At the WTO, Brazil has been from the beginning  one of  the most active participants of the  JSI 
on investment  facilitation and remains committed to the goal of  concluding text negotiations until 
the end of 2022.  
Fifth, WTO reform  
 
2.33.   During the review period, Brazil engaged in all WTO  Reform discussions and contributed  
towards a satisfactory outcome for the MC12.  
2.34.   In this regard, we highlight the Brazilian proposal  of annual ministerial conferences in Geneva 
as a way  to build trust among Members and increase the  responsiveness of the Organization in a 
pragmatic  manner.  
2.35.   Moreover, it  has been almost three years since the Appellate  Body became non -operational, 
and Members still need to  find a way to overcome the current impasse. We must  recover the 
capability of the dispute settlement system  to deliver enforceable outcomes.  
Last but not least, sustainability  
 
2.36.   In agriculture,  Brazil has pursued the adoption of land -saving  technologies, conservation 
measures, and policies to  foster agriculture productivity , and sustainability.  
2.37.   Agricultural sustainability as a concept means the  possibility of agricultural systems to 
maintain  long-term production, without sensitive depletion of the  resources that give rise to them, 
such as  biodiversity, soil fertility , and water resources.  
2.38.   Brazil 's credentials in the area of environmental  sustaina bility were acknowledged in several 
sections of the  Report from the Secretariat.  
2.39.   We would like to particularly highlight that the Brazilian  energy matrix remained  one of the 
cleanest in the world during the period in review; in 2021, 45% of energy our came  from renewable 
sources compared to an average of less than  15% for the rest of the world and 11.5% for the 
OECD  members.  
2.40.   In Brazil 's view, the world will not have the tools  to face the challenges of mitigating and 
adapting to  climate change unless we prom ote more growth and more  sustainable development. 
This is particularly true for developing  economies.  
2.41.   In order to reach this goal in a sustainable way,  trade must play a central role.  
2.42.   WTO Members cannot face the environmental question  effectively if we lose sight of the bigger  
picture.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 7 - 
 
  2.43.   Sustainable development only materializes through the simultaneous improvement of its 
three  core dimensions: economic, social , and environmental. It is precisely because international 
trade helps improve conditions in all three that it can be such a powerful tool in that process.  
2.44.   International trade has a proven beneficial effect by providing opportunities for medium and 
small companies, as well as for families, to access new markets and improve their inco me and escape 
poverty. Frequently that is also what is necessary to enable those stakeholders to improve their 
environmental practices and to abandon environmentally harmful production methods.  
2.45.   Ambassador  Piracha, Mr Chair, Secretariat, delegates, I thank you for your kind attention and 
for the high-level interest in the Brazilian policies and achievements since our last Trade Policy 
Review in 2017.  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 8 - 
 
  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  I wish to warmly welcome the Brazilian delegation led by H .E. Minister Fernando Meirelles  
de Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to 
their eighth Trade Policy Review.  
3.2.  I would like to acknowledge the Secretariat and Brazilian TPR team here in Geneva and in the 
Capital for  preparing excellent reports for this TPR. Having recently been under review, I am 
personally aware of the amount of work this process involves.  
3.3.  It is indeed an honour for me personally and for my country to be the discussant at this trade 
policy review of one of the largest emerging economies in the world, known for its "vast and bountiful 
lands ", its vibrant people and culture and of course , foot ball! 
3.4.  The discussant at the previous Trade Policy Review of Brazil quoted the famous Brazilian saying, 
translated a s: "Good sailors are not born by quiet seas". This remains relevant during the period 
under review as Brazil fared through rough seas especia lly as a result of the pandemic – like many 
other countries around the globe, nevertheless, it has managed to keep the wheel turning and 
direction of its economy and reform pointed in the right direction.  
3.5.  The reform agenda carried out since the previous re view has certainly contributed to this result. 
However, going through some material on Brazil while preparing, I could not help feel that 
expectations from Brazil are quite high. But as we all know, no matter how technically sound, reforms 
are always polit ically driven, not an easy task in a vibrant and large democracy like Brazil. For 
technical gurus, these are always too slow and too little! Brazil has been on a path of steady reforms 
since the 1990s, when it was one of the early movers in granting autono my to its Central Bank, 
amongst other reforms to privati ze and liberali ze its economy. Brazil has also a demonstrated ability 
to undertake huge programs successfully, a clear indicator of strong public institutions: the globally 
exemplified, Bolsa  Familia program me that brought out 25  million people over the poverty line, 
being a case in point.  
3.6.  Amongst the top 15  economies globally, Brazil remains a top destination for investments, an 
important trading partner for many countries as it is home to abo ut half of the South America 's 
population and wealth. Brazil is resource rich, that has historically been a curse for some countries 
as well and that needs to be learnt from. However, Brazil is rich in human capital as well. Its natural 
endowment, includin g the Amazon forest and its biodiversity are irreplaceable assets not just for 
Brazil but the whole world. So , Brazilian Government policies are clearly  of immense interest to the 
global community.  
3.7.  Allow me to first layout the context of the period under r eview.  
3.8.  Brazil was on a recovery path from the 2015 -16 recession through a comprehensive reform 
agenda. However, the global trade reflected a gloomy outlook due to trade disputes, increasing trade 
barriers, tighter financial conditions, slowdown in domestic  investments, uncertainty resulting in 
lesser long -term spending, geopolitical tensions, social unrest,  and intensifying climate risks. 
The UN SG 2019 report raised similar concerns over the sustainability of global economic growth in 
the face of rising fi nancial, social and environmental challenges. Unfortunately, while these issues 
were enough for putting a break to development efforts, the COVID  pandemic added an additional 
and thick layer of challenges.  
3.9.  Thus,  today 's discussion must factor in all these issues and challenges while evaluating the 
policy decisions taken by Brazilian Government and their impact domestically and internationally. 
This approach will give a more relevant context to the various policy decisions the Government took 
in order  to gro w the economy while grappling with underlying structural and economic challenges 
as well as the health emergency.  
3.10.   The various reforms during the period under review mainly addressed productivity and 
business environment.  
3.11.   To address productivity issues, var ious reforms were undertaken in the labour market, in 
financial management, and in the areas of governance  and trade enhancement.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 9 - 
 
  3.12.   Within the financial sector, several reforms were introduced with a view to bring in efficiency, 
stability , and inclusiveness.  The Central Bank (BCB) has been given technical and operational 
autonomy with a mandate to guarantee price stability. The introduction of the "Open banking" policy 
for banks and insurances was aimed at increasing competition in the financial sector. Among  the 
reforms were the implementation of the instant electronic payment system (PIX) which has seen 
transfers and payments increase multiple times; the authorization of fintech credits and payment 
institutions to operate in Brazil; the introduction of the C ontrolled Testing Environment for Financial 
and Payment Innovations (BCB Sandbox) to assess financial innovations within the National Financial 
System (SFN) and the Brazilian Payments System; (SPB) and lastly the continued strengthening of 
financial educat ion. 
3.13.   The financial markets underwent profound transformation: direct lending rates were aligned 
with market rates. The benchmark interest rates, the SELIC, were lowered gradually from 17% in 
January  2017 to a historic low of 2% in 2020 to cope with global economic deceleration caused by 
the pandemic.  
3.14.   Labour and capital being key drivers of growth of the economy, labour market regulatory 
reforms have been undertaken to address unemployment and to create jobs. Furthermore, pension 
reform carried out since 2019 made amendments to the retirement ages and minimum contribution 
for workers in the private and public sectors.  
3.15.   Another major and notable step forward is the privatization of state-owned enterprises . 
To stimulate the economy by attracting new inv estors and promoting competition in the domestic 
market, the Government put privatization as one of its key priority agenda. Two  SOEs were 
privatized: Eletrobras and Codesa. Divestments were carried out on SOEs operating in the energy 
sector. Eletrobras, i s one of Latin  America 's largest power companies, accounting for 28 % of Brazil 's 
power generation and 40 % of its transmission lines and it has been privatized through capitalization 
(i.e. issuance of new shares). Interestingly, Codesa is the first privatiz ation of a public port in Brazil.  
3.16.   A noteworthy point here is the commitment of the Government to liberalize the natural gas 
and oil refinery markets. The Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) through 
cease -and-desist agreements (settlements), secured divestiture commitments from the state -owned 
enterprise (SOE) Petrobras.  
3.17.   During the period under review, Brazil has addressed its challenges related to the complexity 
of its rules and regulations. The first step was the initiation of regulatory ref orms for their 
simplification, for increased transparency to encourage trade.  
3.18.   The Economic Freedom Law of 2019 aims at facilitating entrepreneurship and development 
by providing greater administrative simplification for easing the business environment, cl earer rules, 
and increased competitiveness.  
3.19.   While the Business Environment Law of 2021 seeks to simplify the opening and operation of 
companies in Brazil, it aims to facilitate entrepreneurship in the country by promoting simplification, 
legal certainty a nd reduced bureaucracy. It ensures the protection of minority shareholders, 
facilitates foreign trade, the Integrated Asset Recovery System (Sira), the charges made by 
professional councils, the profession of public translator and interpreter, on obtaining  electricity, on 
corporate reduction of bureaucracy, and procedural acts.  
3.20.   As a result of various initiatives to ease business, investment increased over the review period 
stabilized somewhat and has started increasing.  
3.21.   The creation of the "single window"  for investors or Direct Investments Ombudsman (DIO) 
office in 2019 is another major step to facilitate foreign investment. It supports and guides investors 
to navigate their way through the legal and administrative procedures. It also recommends solutions  
to their grievances (Policy Advocacy); and proposes possible improvements.  
3.22.   To further boost investments, foreign companies' direct participation in government 
procurement bidding was eased; the replacement of previous bilateral investment, promotion, and 
protection agreements signed between 1994 and 1999 by the cooperation and facilitation investment WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 10 - 
 
  agreements (CFIAs) has continued during the period under review as well as the conclusion of 
treaties to avoid double taxation.  
3.23.   Similar reforms with respect to customs procedures have resulted in reducing port clearance 
times. The average customs clearance time for imports across all Brazilian entry points went from 
34.16  hours in 2016 down to 15.32  hours in 2021.  
3.24.   The implementation of the Single Window Progra mme under the TFA launched in 2014 
continued during the period under review as Brazil persisted in streamlining its foreign trade 
formalities.  
3.25.   Increasing transparency and addressing corruption are key for both foreign investors and 
domestic businesses to s upport and promote economic activities, through bringing down the cost of 
doing business. Brazil's Inter -Agency Committee for Combating Corruption (CICC) released its 
National Anti -Corruption Strategy 2021 -25 to strengthen accountability, to detect and pre vent 
corruption. Furthermore, the national competition authority, the Administrative Council for Economic 
Defense (CADE), implemented several initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency and service 
delivery through digital means.  
3.26.   Other regulatory and insti tutional improvements include the approval of the mandate for the 
preparation of the Action Plan on Responsible Business Conduct (2020), and the revision of the 
operational setting of the National Investment Committee (CONINV) within the scope of the Forei gn 
Trade Chamber (CAMEX) of the Ministry of Economy (2019). The legal and institutional frameworks 
for the protection of intellectual property (IP) rights were modified. The Intellectual Property 
Inter-Ministerial Group (GIPI), established in July  2019, be came responsible for IP policy 
formulation. Several legislative amendments affecting IP protection were enacted and they are 
related to patents, utility models, and trademarks systems. Industrial Property Law (IPL) were 
amended notably on the duration of t he protection which has been increased from the former law 
as well as to clarify the compulsory licensing. New National Plan to Combat Piracy for the period 
2022-25 has been approved in order to enforce IP protection.  
3.27.   While services continue  to be the domi nant sector, the shares of both agriculture and mining 
in GDP rose mainly due to increased commodity prices.  
3.28.   Pursuant to the various structural reforms, trade and trade -related legislation was passed in 
several areas including trade facilitation, anti -dumping, state enterprises, public procurement, 
taxation, tax refunds (Reintegra), intellectual property rights, automotive, and digital marketing.  
3.29.   Agriculture policies were developed pursuant to the Pluriannual Planning (PPA) 2020 -23. In 
line with the PPA, the Agricultural and Livestock Plan 2021 -22 or Plano Safra developed its policies 
under four main pillars: sustainability, family farming, investments, and agricultural insurance; in 
order to promote sustainability and supporting small  farmers.  
3.30.   Brazil has various support mechanisms in place and during the period under review it 
introduced the 2021 Feed Brazil program me (Programa Alimenta Brasil) replacing the previous 
program me of acquisition of agricultural products from family farming. This program me through the 
purchase of products aimed at ensuring food security, promoting actions related to nutrition and 
building stocks.  
3.31.   Support provided to the agriculture  sector consists mainly of agricultural or rural credit at 
administered and preferential interest rates and target both commercial and small -scale family 
farms. Expansion of the market access for agricultural products were pursued through bilateral 
engagements. Clearly, de veloping countries have much to learn from the Brazilian experience in 
agriculture.  
3.32.   Brazil has undertaken a number of measures and reforms in the review period in various areas 
of the economy including mining, the energy sector – more prominently enunciati ng a biofuels policy 
– maritime transport, communications generally , and so on and so forth – as spelt out in detail in 
the TPR  reports, so not repeating here. Suffice it to say that the thrust of these reforms is for 
modernization of the sectors and to ma ke them competitive and investment friendly.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 11 - 
 
  3.33.   Banking on its trade led growth model, Brazil took various measures to enhance its 
international trade and develop its industries.  
3.34.   Brazil took several measures to facilitate and reduce hurdles impacting imports.  It continued 
to streamline trade procedures and upgrade the Integrated Foreign Trade System (Siscomex) 
through the implementation of its Single Window System launched since 2014. Amongst these 
measures were the elimination of the Registry of Exporters and  Importers (REI) and the Integrated 
System of Trade in Foreign Services, Intangible Assets and Other Operations (Siscoserv), the 
increased use of the single import declaration (DUIMP) which is now make 30% imports value.  
3.35.   Non-preferential rules of origin ha ve been expanded and its verification system has been 
updated.  
3.36.   Further measures to reduce trade barriers were the elimination of the import duties on certain 
aeronautical goods, the reduction of imports tariffs on more than 1,000  products and the and the 
reduction to zero all tariffs below 2% duties. The conversion of all tariff line which are all bound in 
ad valorem  contributes for more transparency in its trading system.  
3.37.   Rules for trade remedies pursuant to the amendment in the framework and transformation of 
its institutional setting were eased. Imports licensing procedures were streamlined and requirements 
have been eased. The system for export licensing implemented in 2018 was gradually rolled out for 
import licensing in order to support fo r multiple operations per licence, differentiated licence validity 
periods, and use of the licence by different branches of the same company.  
3.38.   Furthermore, rules allowing foreign entry in air transportation and banking have been eased.  
3.39.   Brazil has in place v arious schemes to support its industries.  
3.40.   Support to the industry such as the draw back scheme has been updated for transparency 
and efficiency and compliance. Legal framework for export processing zones (EPZs) has also been 
updated facilitating the creati on of EPZs.  
3.41.   Export promotion targets primarily SMEs in order to increase the participation into the 
international value chain, fostering innovation, design and technology transfer, and encouraging the 
use of "sociobiodiverse" resources.  
3.42.   Two export taxes me ant for ensuring supply to the domestic market and to control regularity 
of trade flows were terminated.  
3.43.   The support system for export related financing PROEX underwent reform for efficiency. Its 
legal framework has been amended and consolidated.  
3.44.   Various schemes and assistances are in place, however, the government expenditure on 
incentive and support programmes (excluding forgone revenue) went from 0.33% of the GDP 
in 2017 down to 0.14% in 2021.  
3.45.   Pursuant to the Economic Freedom Rights legislation, the reg ulatory approval methods by the 
National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (INMETRO) have been updated for efficiency: 
cutting red tape and simplification of rules.  
3.46.   Brazil has implemented major reforms in its competition policy pursuant to the  OECD review 
and recommendations. Further efforts were made towards the formalization of international 
cooperation on competition policy. CADE has 21  non-binding technical cooperation agreements with 
overseas competition authorities and international organ izations.  
3.47.   To complement its international trade policy, Brazil pursued and strengthened its regional and 
economic integration through MERCOSUR and Latin American Integration Association (LAIA/ALADI) 
RTAs. Four  RTAs outside the region were also concluded an d implemented. Signature and ratification 
of two RTAs with the European  Union and the European Free Trade Association and negotiation of 
other agreements are ongoing.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 12 - 
 
  3.48.   Equally to its key role globally, Brazil is an active Member at the WTO. It has stated th at the 
multilateral trading system is a priority in Brazil's foreign trade policy, hence its active participation 
and engagement in several committees to support the strengthening of the multilateral system. 
Brazil continues to pursue the development agend a even if it has unilaterally decided to forego its 
special and differential treatment in WTO negotiations in 2019. Brazil 's commitment to transparency 
has been demonstrated by its impressive track record on notifications. Brazil has been advocating 
to res tore the two-tier adjudication function of the WTO and is an active participant of the MPIA. 
Brazil has been working actively for reforms in agreement of agriculture and is a fellow member of 
the Cairns group that promotes fair trade in agriculture.  
3.49.   Brazil has expanded its WTO commitments with its accession to the WTO  Agreement  on 
Government Procurement (GPA) and its application to join the Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft 
in June  2022.  
3.50.   On a personal note , I would like to acknowledge the tremendous int ellectual leadership 
provided by the Brazilian delegation in Geneva under Ambassador Alexandre  Parola and many here 
will miss his reflective and "philosophical " interventions.  
3.51.   The reforms Brazil has carried out during the period under review are noteworthy, given the 
global difficulties we all faced in this period, and that Brazil was especially hit hard by C OVID . Most 
of these reforms were in line with the recommendations from the international fora, thus signalling 
the strong commitment of the G overnment for its development and growth to be aligned with its 
international obligations and good practices and its objective to use trade as its engine of growth.  
3.52.   Notwithstanding all the efforts so far, pursuing its objectives for sustainable growth will  
require the Government to further address its multi -layered system of governance, where federal, 
state-level and city -level authorities all have significant legislative power; its taxation system, to 
continue the reforms already made on privatization, to take further steps on competition, on 
facilitating trade and investments, on tackling infrastructure deficiencies, and on education as means 
to contribute to the reduce social inequalities. Efficiency in the various support mechanisms would 
contribute and play significant role to bolster productiv ity. 
3.53.   Furthermore, coordination between the levels of Government will help to advance the 
development and implementation of strategic policies. While the ease of doing business has been 
improved, the reduction in co st of doing business needs to be further addressed.  
3.54.   To stimulate the economy further actions to promote economic competitiveness, to increase 
the participation of the private sector and to further facilitate investment may also be considered. 
Special consi deration may be given to the services sector which has a large potential for growth. 
Furthermore, while pursuing its sustainable growth and raising living standards, Brazil would need 
to strike a balance between the measures for its development and its imp acts at the international 
level as Brazil remains a major global player.  
3.55.   It is noteworthy to point out that some of these necessary reforms are already on the agenda, 
especially the reforms on taxation; the 2021 tax reform proposal and the proposed constit utional 
amendment aimed at a comprehensive tax reform of consumption taxes on is part of an ongoing 
discussion at the Congress.  
3.56.   Let me conclude by saying that the Government took bold actions to pursue its growth 
especially due to plethora of exogenous cha llenges it faced including the pandemic. There are 
however some remaining challenges to strengthen the economy for a sustained growth.  
3.57.   The last comment from someone who represents a country high up on the climate change 
vulnerability  list. I believe the world welcomes Brazil 's recent announcement to protect the 
rainforest. But the world needs to find the right incentives for Brazil and it s people to persist in this 
policy. And for Brazil and the world to find sustainable ways of exploiting its natural endowments.  
3.58.   I really look forward for a fruitful exchange and discussions with Members .  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 13 - 
 
  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
OMAN  
4.1.  It is a great pleasure for the delegation of the Sultanate of Oman to participate in the 
eighth Trade Policy Review of Brazil and we join other WTO Members in welcoming H.E.  Minister 
Fernando Meirelles de Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Depa rtment of the Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs and his distinguished delegation.  
4.2.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank the WTO  Secretariat and the Government of Brazil 
for their detailed and comprehensive Trade Policy Review reports. I also thank the d iscussant 
Dr Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha , Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the WTO.  
4.3.  The Sultanate of Oman and Brazil enjoy a friendly relationship which has been strengthened in 
recent years. Brazilian – Omani relations focus on peace an d security policy, economic affairs,  and 
sustainable development. A special emphasis is placed on promoting stability at the international 
level.  
4.4.  In May  2022, Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry received a high -level Brazilian 
economic delegation headed by Mr  Flavio  Augusto  Rocha, Minister of Strategic Affairs of the Republic 
of Brazil, and a number of officials in government institutions and private companies. Discussions 
were held on several issues that dealt with relations and future work.  
4.5.  Economic dat a indicate that the trade exchange between the two  countries amounted to about 
USD 2,240 billion in 2021, with both countries pointing to the potential for enhanced trade in a 
number of areas. Brazilian investment in Oman is concentrated in Vale Oman set u p in Sohar with 
an investment of more than USD 1 billion. Brazilian exports to the Sultanate of Oman amounted to 
USD 1.546  Billion in 2021, while Omani exports to Brazil during the same year amounted to about 
USD 692 million.  
4.6.  Oman congratulates Brazil for efforts undertaken to improve economic fundamentals and 
strengthen macroeconomic resilience. Brazil's annual GDP growth rate bounced back to an estimated 
4.6% in 2021 as a result of timely adopted support measures.  
4.7.  Brazil's openness to international trade and its integration into the world economy continued 
to be reflected by the ratio of the country's trade (exports plus imports) in goods and services to 
GDP, which rose significantly from 24.3% in 2017 to 39.2% in 2021 due to an increase of both 
exports an d imports in 2020 and 2021.  
4.8.  Oman would like also to commend Brazil which took during the review period several steps to 
improve the business climate via regulatory (e.g. the 2021 New Business Environment Law) . 
4.9.  Brazil is a founding Member of the WTO and pa rticipates actively in the Organization activities 
in general as well as in different negotiations ' issues.  
4.10.   We would like to thank the delegation of Brazil in advance for their replies to our questions 
on specific aspects of its trade policy.  
4.11.   To conclude, the delegation of Oman wishes the delegation of Brazil a very successful eighth 
Trade Policy Review.  
THAILAND   
4.12.   It is my pleasure to participate in the eighth  Trade Policy Review of Brazil and we would like 
to join Oman in welcoming delegation of Brazil led by H.E.  Minister Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo 
Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  
4.13.   I also would like to e xpress my sincere thanks for the briefing by Dr  Muhammad Mujtaba 
Piracha  of Pakistan and for his thorough examination of the Brazilian Trade Policy Report. We also 
thank the Government of Brazil and the WTO Secretariat for preparing such comprehensive repo rts. WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 14 - 
 
  4.14.   Trade relation between Thailand and Brazil has continued to grow despite the challenges of 
geographical distance and the COVID -19 pandemic. Brazil is Thailand's number one  trading partner 
in Latin  America while Thailand is Brazil's number three  tradin g partner in ASEAN, with bilateral 
merchandise trade valued at USD 5.3 billion  in 2021, increasing by 44.6% from the previous year. 
While the main products Thailand exported to Brazil are automobiles and parts, rubber and its 
products, machinery and equipm ent, and plastics. It is important to highlight that Thailand imports 
soybean, which is important for animal feed, from Brazil approximately 83% of Thailand 's total 
imports of the product.  
4.15.   In this respect, Thailand and Brazil are very important strategic p artner in terms of the 
agricultural sector. Also, I would like to highlight a few issues that I have observed in the Brazil 's 
development of trade policy which is partly drawn from the Report.  
4.16.   First of all, I would like to highlight characteristics that T hailand and Brazil have in common. 
Both countries are largely agriculture -based and are upper middle -income country with abundant 
natural resources and agricultural raw materials. Agricultural sector continues to play an important 
role in both countries in  terms of economic development, trade, employment, and livelihood of a 
large number of population. Another issue which I would like to highlight is that Brazil 's advancement 
in agricultural technology, including its ethanol production from sugarcane, and s ustainable 
agricultural practices would provide an opportunity for bilateral future cooperation and knowledge 
sharing which will benefit green and sustainable development in line with Thailand 's national agenda 
on bio-circular -green economy (BCG) model. In  my view, even though we are competing in the 
same sectors and have similar aspirations, I would rather wish to see our bilateral relations in terms 
of greater cooperation in the future, rather than being competitive. One thing we can do is to 
strengthen t he rules in the respective sectors such as agriculture, environment,  and bio economy in 
the future. We look forward to having greater cooperation in this area.  
4.17.   Secondly, Thailand welcomes Brazil 's efforts in structural reforms aiming to diversify 
production, increase productivity, and improve business environment. From the last review, we are 
broadly satisfied and applaud the progress made by Brazil. However, I would like to highlight a few 
issues that Thailand will continue to monitor closely on B razil's development.  
• The first area concerns Brazil 's tariff regime. As is the case with Brazil 's last TPR in July  2017, 
the simple average rate for dutiable lines increased from 12.6% in 2017 to 14% in 
April 2022. Additionally, it has still been observed  that Brazil 's tariff regime still has high 
binding coverage, large tariff binding overhangs, and very few products bound at zero tariffs. 
We hope that if Brazil can undertake measures to close the gap in specific areas, they would 
help greatly improve tra de predictability and business climate as well as international 
competitiveness in line with policy reform.  
• Moreover, Thailand has been following closely the development of the policies of Brazil, it 
could also be observed that there has been a shift in sectors favoured by Brazil 's trade policy 
from chemicals to motors and other manufactures which would have an impact on our 
competitiveness. Again, I would hope that we would strengthen rules in the respective areas 
where both countries are major trading p artners.  
4.18.   Brazil has always been an immense contributor to the WTO, both in the regular work, 
especially in transparency and compliance with notification requirements, and various negotiations 
particularly on agriculture and fisheries subsidies. We have wor ked closely with Brazil as an active 
member of Cairns Group. Also, Brazil has been active in various joint initiatives.  
4.19.   Thailand would like to continue working closely with Brazil. We also thank Brazil for responding 
to our questions and we will study the m with great interests. In closing, Thailand appreciates the 
opportunity to participate in the eighth  TPR of Brazil today where we have learn t enormously about 
the latest development of Brazil 's trade and economic policies. Thailand wishes Brazil every suc cess 
in its eight Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 15 - 
 
  GUATEMALA  
4.20.   The delegation of Guatemala extends the warmest of welcomes to the delegation of Brazil, 
led by Mr  Fernando  Meirelles de  Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department at the 
Ministry of Foreign  Affairs, and his distinguished team in Geneva with whom we have had the 
pleasure of working closely in recent years. We also welcome the staff who have travelled from the 
capital.  
4.21.   Guatemala commends the WTO Secretariat for its meticulous research, reflect ed in the report 
drawn up for this review. The report provides broad and comprehensive coverage of the economic 
environment and the progress that Brazil has made in implementing its trade policies over the last 
few years. We also thank the Chair of the Tra de Policy Body for his opening remarks, and 
Ambassador Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the WTO, for 
the comprehensive and analytical approach that he has shared with us as discussant during this 
session.  
4.22.   Relations between Guatemala and Brazil are based on friendly ties and mutual support. At 
December  2021, annual trade flows between our two countries exceeded USD  369 million. 
Guatemala's leading exports to Brazil are insecticides, fungicides, disinfectants, lead, natural ru bber 
and products of the chemical industry. Its main imports from Brazil include machinery and 
mechanical equipment for electrotechnical use, plastics and plastic products, vehicles and transport 
equipment.  
4.23.   Within the WTO, both our countries are members of  the G20 and the Cairns Group, which are 
coalitions of WTO Members, and this has enabled us to deepen our trade relations with a view to 
achieving balanced international trade in agriculture. The same is true for other joint initiatives on 
various matters such as investment facilitation, MSMEs and e -commerce.  
4.24.   Bilateral trade has remained stable and has gradually increased over the past decade, but in 
our view there is significant potential for further expanding our trade in goods and services.  
4.25.   We note that during the review period Brazil carried major reforms of its trade policies to 
improve the business environment. Such reform initiatives include the new Business Environment 
Law of 2021.  
4.26.    Another positive for Brazil is its openness to foreign investment, a s reflected in greater 
liberalization of new sectors of its economy and the buttressing of its regulatory framework.  
4.27.   In trade facilitation Brazil has continued to streamline its foreign trade formalities and to 
gradually apply its Single Window Programme.  
4.28.   We acknowledge Brazil's efforts in forging ahead with the implementation of its trade policies 
and hope to further strengthen our trade ties, both bilaterally and at the regional level.  
4.29.   We are also grateful for the replies to the questions submitted by Gua temala in the course of 
this review.  
4.30.   We wish the Brazilian delegation a successful conclusion to its Trade Policy Review . 
SINGAPORE  
4.31.   Allow me to begin by extending a very warm welcome to the delegation from Brazil, led by 
Director of the Trade Policy Depart ment of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , Fernando Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pimentel . Singapore would like to thank Brazil for its comprehensive Government Report 
and statement. We would also like to express our appreciation to the Chair, Ambassador Ángel 
Villalobos (Mexico); the discussant, Ambassador Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan); and the 
Secretariat for your valuable insights. Allow me to make three points.  
4.32.   First, Singapore would like to commend Brazil for her continued commitment to the 
rules-based mu ltilateral trading system despite global headwinds caused by the COVID -19 pandemic 
and geopolitical challenges. This is important given that Brazil is a major economy and a key node WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 16 - 
 
  in global trade. Brazil 's economy is making a sustained recovery to pre -pandemic levels, with 
improved employment rates and restoration of business and consumer confidence.  
4.33.   We note that Brazil has moderni zed and improved its trade and business infrastructure since 
its last Trade Policy Review in 2017. During the period under re view, Brazil has progressively sought 
to reduce non -tariff barriers to trade through simplifying regulations, increasing transparency and 
encouraging the use of digital tools and services. For example, Brazil has upgraded its Single Window 
Programme throug h greater consolidation of services and required documents and  presenting more 
options for digital submission. These improvements have created significant time and cost savings 
for exporters and importers.  
4.34.   Over the past four decades, by embracing free tra de, foreign direct investment and new 
technologies, Brazil has successfully transformed itself from being a net importer of food to one of 
the largest exporters of agricultural products in the world, and has the potential to contribute 
positively to global  food security. Singapore has benefited from this, with Brazil being the single 
largest supplier of meat (beef, chicken,  and pork) to Singapore.  
4.35.   Second, Singapore and Brazil enjoy excellent and long -standing political and economic 
relations. Brazil is Singapore 's biggest trading partner in Latin  America. In 2021, our bilateral trade 
in goods reached its highest level ever, growing by 42% year -on-year to a value of US D 5.4 billion. 
Singapore and Brazil are also strengthening collaboration in technology a nd digital innovation. 
Singapore companies such as AI solution providers CrayonData and ViSenze have established offices 
in Brazil. Additionally, there are ongoing efforts between Brazilian and Singaporean companies to 
co-create innovative technology -driven solutions. An example is Brazilian start -up Agtech Garage, 
which is helping to accelerate and incubate innovative Singapore start -ups in the agri -business  
sector. Brazil 's booming e -sports ecosystem has also provided many opportunities for Singapore 
comp anies to be involved in streaming and platform development. At a regional level, the 
MERCOSUR and Singapore have substantially completed FTA negotiations, and I am confident that 
our economic relations will continue to grow from strength to strength upon i ts entry into force.  
4.36.   Third, on the multilateral front, Brazil has played an influential and constructive role at 
the WTO. Apart from its many outstanding diplomats, the sixth Director -General of the WTO 
Roberto  Azevêdo hailed from Brazil. Singapore shares  Brazil 's commitment to ensuring that the WTO 
remains fit -for-purpose to address the challenges of today and tomorrow, and we are active 
participants in the various Joint Statement Initiatives (JSIs) and the Trade and Environmental 
Sustainability Structure d Discussions (TESSD). We welcome Brazil 's on-going accession to the 
Government Procurement Agreement (GPA) and encourage Brazil to complete the accession 
procedures expeditiously. As the first Latin American Member to seek accession to the GPA, Brazil 's 
accession will send a strong signal of the importance of establishing open, fair and transparent 
conditions of competition in government procurement processes.  
4.37.   In closing, Singapore looks forward to working closely with colleagues at the Permanent 
Mission of Brazil in Geneva to strengthen our bilateral ties as well as further contribute to the 
continued success of the WTO. I wish Brazil every success for its eighth Trade Policy Review. Finally, 
on a more personal note, I wish to register my appreciation to Ambassador Alexandre Parola, who 
has just completed his assignment as Brazil 's Permanent Representative to the WTO. Alexandre was 
a wonderful friend, a reliable colleague,  and a supporter of the WTO.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.38.   Welcome to Mr  Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel . Thank you, Ambassador Piracha for 
your efforts as discussant, and to the Secretariat for preparing its Report. In his absence, we also 
wanted to express our delegation 's gratitude to Ambassador Parola for his energy and leadership 
over hi s years in Geneva.   
4.39.   Brazil 's contribution to the global trading system and to the WTO is indispensable, built on a 
recognition of the role open markets and free trade can play in delivering inclusive development. 
Brazil 's leadership is reflected in its co ntribution to rulemaking, including as a constructive participant 
in all four Joint Statement Initiatives and as the first Latin  American Member seeking to accede to 
the Government Procurement Agreement. It is also reflected in Brazil 's commitment to ensur ing the WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 17 - 
 
  enforceability of the rules, as a party to the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Mechanism and 
active participant in dispute settlement reform discussions.  
4.40.   Nowhere is Brazilian leadership at the WTO more evident than in agriculture. Brazil an d 
Australia share a strong commitment to meaningful agricultural trade reform, including to level the 
playing field in agriculture and to advance environment and food security outcomes. The failure to 
reach consensus at MC12 on agriculture highlighted the need to work together to reshape and 
reinvigorate discussions. We know that we can count on Brazil to continue to play a leading role as 
we work to build a global consensus on agricultural trade reform.  
4.41.   Australia also looks forward to continuing to deepen  our bilateral relationship with Brazil, 
which has strengthened since the last Trade Policy Review. As both our countries look to diversify 
markets, there are opportunities to deepen investment and commercial ties in key growth sectors 
such as renewable en ergy and green hydrogen, noting Brazil 's ambitious transition to renewable 
energy. We welcome the opportunity for further engagement on clean energy regulatory issues 
including hydrogen certification and emissions accounting.  
4.42.   Australia acknowledges the sev ere impact of the COVID -19 pandemic on Brazil 's economy 
and were pleased to see rebounding growth in 2021. Australia welcomes the measures undertaken 
by Brazil to improve trade and global supply chains and promote best practise to boost agricultural 
produc tion, to counter protectionism in agricultural trade.   
4.43.   Australia has submitted several written questions as part of this review and looks forward to 
receiving Brazil 's response. We wish Brazil well in this Trade Policy Review and look forward to 
continuin g to cooperate with Brazil here at the WTO and elsewhere.  
CANADA  
4.44.   Canada joins other WTO Members in welcoming the Brazilian delegation headed by the 
Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Fernando Meirelles 
de Azevedo  Pimentel . We are very pleased to participate in this eight Trade Policy Review. We thanks 
the Government of Brazil, in particular those who have joined from capital, the WTO Secretariat for 
the reports, and of course, my colleague, Ambassador Piracha for your insights as discussant.  
4.45.   I would like to begin by acknowledging Brazil 's significant efforts towards improving economic 
fundamentals and strengthening macroeconomic resilience. The period for this Trade Policy Review 
has been extremely taxing for all. Nevertheless, Brazil has managed to undertake trade -related 
structural reforms to boost productivity, potential growth, and living standards in several areas, 
which have attracted private investment into transportation, energy, and water and sewage, and 
are expected to generate additional infrastructure investment in the coming years.  These are all 
good things.  
4.46.   We are pleased to see Brazil 's efforts in digitalization of processes, which contributes to red 
tape reduction and rationalization of trade regula tions in key sectors such as sanitation , this is an 
area that has been highlighted in past TPRs  and so we commend Brazil for the efforts towards 
reform.  A special mention to Brazil 's new public procurement law enacted in 2021 that prohibits 
discriminatory treatment between national and foreign suppliers.  
4.47.   However, Brazil 's recent policy choices raise concern in key areas. The recent approval of 
PEC 1/2022 for example, while in the short-term contributing to fight the effects of inflation, may 
have the opposi te impact when its temporary tax reductions and benefits cease, if not transitioned 
according to a new framework in January  2023. Pending definitions regarding Brazil 's intellectual 
property rules also impact foreign trade and hamper investor confidence.  
4.48.   Moreover, despite promising initiatives and progress, Brazil still presents significant challenges 
for companies wishing to do business in the country. The need for effective and timely 
implementation of a significant tax reform in Brazil and further reduc tion of regulatory burden on 
businesses remain key concerns to Canada, as well as closing infrastructure gaps. Canada is also 
particularly keen in seeing ratification of our bilateral air transportation agreement with Brazil 
happen soon, as it has been pen ding since the agreement was signed in August  2011.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 18 - 
 
  4.49.   With respect to Brazil 's participation at the WTO, I would like to  note Brazil 's good overall 
notification and transparency record. I would also like to underscore, as many have, the inspirational 
partici pation of our dear friend Alexandre  Parola, who is off to , I will not sa y "greener pastures"  in 
Paris, this is the greenest pasture of them all , but I would just like to take a moment to really 
underscore the impact that Alexandre had as Ambassador here . I arrived only in mid -August  was 
told about how impactful he  is and his leadership has been in this house , before I arrived  and saw 
it in spades in the three short months that I was able to work with him, so I would really  like to 
underscore that , and we look forward to continued collaboration and work with the Brazilian 
delegation here in Geneva going forward.   
4.50.   We also look  forward to continu ing collaboration with Brazil in the JSIs on E-commerce, on 
Services Domestic Regulation , and on Investment Facilit ation for Development , as well as in the 
MSMEs and Trade and Gender informal working groups and in the Trade and Environmental 
Sustainability Structured Discussions  for which Canada co -sponsors . We also welcome Brazil 's 
application to join the Agreement on  Trade in Civil Aircraft.  
4.51.   In conclusion, I would like to again commend Brazil for its very productive efforts during a 
very challenging period. We have submitted questions on some of the themes I have touched upon 
and have already received responses which  we will review. We look forward to a constructive 
exchange of views on all aspects of Brazil 's trade policy. We wish the delegation the utmost success 
during this review.  
MEXICO 
4.52.   Mexico extends the warmest of welcomes to the delegation of Brazil led by Minister 
Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department at the Ministry 
of Foreign Affairs. My delegation would also like to thank Dr  Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha, 
Ambassador of Pakistan, for his detailed analysis.  
4.53.   I should lik e to take this opportunity to acknowledge the active efforts of the Mission of Brazil 
and to thank the WTO Secretariat for its report.  
4.54.   Mexico and Brazil enjoy close fraternal ties that extend to trade. We have three Economic 
Complementarity Agreements (ACE ) and various regional agreements that govern preferential trade 
between us under the framework of the Latin American Integration Association (LAIA), as well as 
agreements on tourism, commerce and the environment. Thanks to these agreements and 
investment between our two countries, the scale and importance of the opportunities for Mexican 
businesses to expand their operations in Brazil, and vice versa, are continually growing.  
4.55.   Brazil is Mexico's leading trade partner in Latin America and the Caribbean and i ts tenth largest 
trade partner at world level – in 2021 trade stood at more than USD  12 billion.  
4.56.   As in different economies across the world, the COVID -19 pandemic put the brakes on Brazil's 
economic growth. However during the review period the Brazilian Go vernment adopted structural 
reforms to drive productivity, innovation and growth, and these will undoubtedly contribute to the 
country's economic recovery although there will still be challenges along the way such as the fiscal 
imbalance and inflationary p ressures.  
4.57.   The Secretariat report indicates that trade liberalization in Brazil and the country's integration 
into the world economy is reflected in the significant rise in the ratio of trade in goods and services 
to GDP, from 24.3% in 2017 to 39.2% in 2021 , including growth in the midst of the pandemic. The 
country's greater openness is evident in its strategy of concluding deeper "new generation" 
agreements with other economies that add to those it has entered into with its traditional Latin 
American partn ers, although Brazil's integration at world level is low.  
4.58.   Also noteworthy are its low participation in global value chains and the rise in its forward 
participation but fall in backward participation.  
4.59.   One aspect of concern to Mexico is Brazil's complex dom estic tax system. The Secretariat 
report itself acknowledges that the system adversely affects the treatment of imported goods and 
services. The fact that domestic and cross -border transactions are subject to various federal and WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 19 - 
 
  sub-federal levies not only  generates greater costs for exporters to Brazil and the possibility of 
cross-cumulation of taxes, but also generates inefficiencies in the system. This is compounded by 
administrative measures and non -tariff barriers.  
4.60.   Linked to this are the enormous difficulties generated by the system of individual derogations 
and exceptions that Brazil enjoys within MERCOSUR. The bloc has failed to make headway towards 
the objective of harmonizing tax and customs procedures, raising doubts and generating co sts for 
economic operators. We urge Brazil to redouble its efforts with its MERCOSUR counterparts to 
establish a common external tariff.  
4.61.   Mexico and Brazil share the commitment to preserving and strengthening the rules -based 
multilateral trading system with  the WTO at its core. In that connection:  
(a) Mexico commends Brazil for its trade facilitation efforts, including its ongoing work to simplify 
foreign trade formalities and upgrade its Integrated Foreign Trade System (SISCOMEX) as 
part of its Single Window Pr ogramme. We applaud its achievements in fully digitizing export 
formalities, modernizing the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme and 
publishing the Time Release Study. We also note its aspiration to achieve the interoperability 
of our single windo w programmes, which will undoubtedly benefit bilateral trade by reducing 
costs and times.  
 
(b) We also acknowledge Brazil's efforts to improve the Brazilian intellectual property system, 
launching its National Intellectual Property Strategy (ENPI) which has al ready reduced the 
backlog of patent applications by 80 %. 
 
(c) We applaud Brazil's commitment to WTO notification and transparency obligations, as it has 
no outstanding notifications.  
 
(d) Mexico appreciates Brazil's active engagement in the negotiations of the joi nt initiatives on 
e-commerce, investment facilitation for development, and services domestic regulation.  
 
(e) Notable initiatives concerning small businesses include the chapters in regional trade 
agreements on support for MSMEs in cross -border trade; and the digital platform BRAEXP 
based on the concept of Integrated Services for MSMEs in International Trade (ISMIT), 
namely the digitization and integration of all services that make exports possible.  
 
4.62.   Additionally, the Secretariat report notes that Brazil update d the non -preferential trade 
verification process; we call on Brazil to revise the preferential trade verification process which, in 
our experience, is extremely onerous to businesses and governments, discouraging trade while 
generating excessive additiona l costs for economic operators.  
4.63.   Lastly, Mexico wishes to reiterate its commitment to strengthening trade relations with Brazil. 
We are confident that cooperation will enable us to expand our markets and consolidate our role as 
priority partners. We thank y ou for your responses to the questions put forward by my delegation 
and wish you every success in this Review . 
ISRAEL  
4.64.   Israel is pleased to participate in Brazil 's eighth Trade Policy Review at the WTO. We want to 
extend our warm welcome to the Brazilian de legation headed by Minister Fernando  Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 
Finally, yet importantly, we would like to thank Ambassador Dr  Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha  
(Pakistan) for his insightful initial remarks.  
4.65.   International trade plays a dominant role in the economies of both of our countries. Brazil is 
Israel 's largest trading partner in Latin  America, and Israel was the first partner to have an FTA with 
MERCOSUR  outside of the region. Furthermore, Brazil and Israel have a long -standing cooperation 
and exchanges in the technical, scientific, and technological areas. For instance, ever since the 
1960s, Israeli companies have been involved in irrigation projects in B razil. WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 20 - 
 
  4.66.   Brazil and Israel have enjoyed healthy and steady growth in bilateral trade in recent years, 
with two -way trade amounting to more than USD  1.9 billion for 2021, following a growing trend 
expected to remain for 2022. Israeli exports to Brazil are dom inated by fertilizers, chemicals, optical 
and medical apparatus, machinery, and electronic equipment. Brazil 's exports to Israel are 
dominated by meat, minerals, oils, seeds and fruits, cereals, and agricultural products in general.  
4.67.   We believe that there is much more potential and value yet to be extracted both ways from 
our trade relations. In addition, nowadays, there is significant activity by Israeli companies operating 
in high -value -added sectors in Brazil, including agrotechnology, water, food and be verage, 
cybersecurity, cleantech, new media, oil and gas, and health.  
4.68.   Today, Brazil is one of the world's largest economies, and as such, Israel believes Brazil can 
be one of the leaders in international  trade and investment. In this context, we look forw ard to see 
Brazil continuing to pull its leadership weight in MERCOSUR to help maintain the bloc as a modern 
and outward -looking customs union. We also look forward to deepening our bilateral trade relations 
with Brazil and MERCOSUR within the framework of  our FTA.  
4.69.   At the WTO, we work alongside many issues and platforms, multilaterally and plurilaterally. 
For example, we are both actively engaged in the Joint Initiative on E -commerce. Both nations also 
worked hard towards the successful conclusion of the J oint Initiative on Services Domestic Regulation 
negotiations last year. Another example of collaboration is the joint proposal on horizontal 
transparency we are co -sponsoring along with other Members. Israel would like to note Brazil's high 
commitment to t he WTO. Although we have sometimes had different views on various issues in 
the WTO, we recognize Brazil's constructive role in the Organization with its active participation and 
tabling of discussion papers and proposals.  
4.70.   We also want to point out the pot ential benefits Brazil would gain by acceding to the 
Government Procurement Agreement. We understand that the accession process is ongoing, and we 
remain confident this will remain a priority for Brazil. Israel stands ready to assist Brazil on this 
matter should it wish so.  
4.71.   Israel submitted various questions to Brazil during this exercise, and we look forward to 
reviewing the replies carefully. The areas of interest for Israel include, among others, dispute 
settlement, government procurement, technical ass istance, RTAs, customs, and trade remedies.  
4.72.   We want to take this opportunity to extend our sincere appreciation to the hard -working team 
in the Mission of Brazil, ably led by H.E.  Mr Alexandre  Parola, who will soon be leaving Geneva. We 
wish him every succ ess in his future endeavours . 
4.73.   To conclude, allow me to wish Brazil every success in its eighth Trade Policy Review.  
CHINA   
4.74.   Let me first extend my warm welcome to Minister Fernando Meirelles de Azevedo Pimentel 
and his delegation to the eighth  Trade Policy Review of Brazil. Allow me to express my gratitude to 
the Secretariat and the Brazilian Government in preparing the reports , and my thanks to you 
Mr Chair and the discussant Ambassador Dr  Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha in facilitating this review.  
4.75.   China commends Brazil 's efforts in strengthening its macroeconomic resilience and adopting 
trade and trade related reforms to boost prod uctivity and raising living standards. Although heavily 
hit by the COVID -19 pandemic and negatively affected by the changes of international monetary 
policy, Brazil 's average GDP growth during this review period is higher than the figure in the previous 
one. Trade is one of the main factors supporting Brazil 's gradual economic recovery. The ratio of 
trade to GDP reached nearly 40% in 2021, up by 15  percentage points compared with the figure 
in 2017. China underscores Brazil 's openness to international trade , particularly facing multiple 
challenges such as supply chain disruption and increasing food insecurity.  
4.76.   Brazil continues to remain as a breadbasket during the review period. It accounted for 5.2% 
of the world's total agricultural exports in 2020, accordi ng to the Secretariat Report. As the world 's 
biggest supplier of soybean, meat and sugarcane, Brazil makes its contributions to the global supply 
chain security and stability by improving productivity and promoting export.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 21 - 
 
  4.77.   Brazil remains committed to the multilateral trading system and actively participated in all 
areas of WTO 's work. We commend Brazil 's important contribution in securing multilateral outcomes 
in MC12 as well as its active participation in the process of WTO reform, especially the efforts and 
contributions of Ambassador Alexandre  Parola and his team in Geneva. As is demonstrated in the 
BRICS  Statement on Strengthening the Multilateral Trading System and Reforming  the WTO, Brazil 
underlines the importance and urgency of restoration of the Ap pellate  Body and recognizes that 
measures taken to tackle climate change must not constitute disguised restriction on international 
trade.  
4.78.   China notes with pleasure that Brazil participated in all WTO JSIs. As a member of the FIFD 
Group, Brazil plays a le ading role in the ongoing negotiations on Investment Facilitation for 
Development, with the aim to conclude the text negotiations by the end of this year.  
4.79.   As is stated in the Government Report, intensification of its trade agreements network is one 
of thr ee pillars in Brazil 's trade agenda. China notes that Brazil has concluded several RTAs and 
renewed or started new trade agreement negotiations with its trading partners. China believes it is 
key to enhance Brazil 's regional integration and export diversif ication. In this regard, China 
encourages Brazil to play an active role in expanding MERCOSUR RTAs network with major trading 
partners.  
4.80.   Bilaterally, China has been Brazil 's largest trading partner for 13  consecutive years 
since 2009. The total value of im ports and exports between the two countries reached a peak of 
USD 164 billion in 2021, registering a year -on-year increase of 36%. China remains the largest 
export market and source country of imports for Brazil. Export to China contributes to a large share 
of Brazil 's trade surplus.  
4.81.   Investment cooperation is another driver in our strategic partnership. Brazil remains China 's 
major investment destination in Latin  America, with USD 3.2 billion accumulative FDI by 2020. China 
expects revived investment c ooperation as Brazil gradually recovers from the pandemic and 
continues to improve conditions of competition for foreign firms, enhancing predictability and putting 
down bureaucracies.  
4.82.   The two countries also have good collaboration in response to the C OVID-19 pandemic. As 
strategic partners and key emerging markets, China will continue to work with Brazil to build an 
open world economy with more inclusiveness and win -win cooperation.  
4.83.   For the purpose of this review, China has submitted written questions to  Brazil, covering 
Brazil 's taxation regime, export credit insurance and financing policy, rural insurance and credit as 
well as trade remedies measures. We thank Brazil for their timely response and will study it carefully.  
4.84.   Finally, I wish the Brazilian d elegation a full success of this review.  
ICELAND  
4.85.   It is with pleasure that Iceland welcomes the distinguished delegation of Brazil to their Trade 
Policy Review , led by Minister Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy 
Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs . We also express appreciation to the WTO Secretariat 
as well as Brazil for the reports prepared, as well as to the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador 
Dr Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha , for the excellent framing of the issues for our d iscussion today.  
4.86.   First, let me mention the ongoing negotiations towards a comprehensive Free Trade 
Agreement between the four MERCOSUR States, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay,  and Uruguay, and the 
four EFTA States, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway , and Switzerland. Iceland welcomes the good 
cooperation that has characterized the negotiations and hopes that a solution will be found to the 
few outstanding issues in order for MERCOSUR and the EFTA countries to start enjoying the economic 
benefits of su ch an agreement.  
4.87.   As described in the TPR Report Brazil has, since the last TPR five  years ago, made efforts to 
improve their economy. The actions taken by the Brazil Government contributed to an increase in 
their GDP in the years before the COVID -19 pandem ic. However, as for other Member states Brazil 's WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 22 - 
 
  economy was gravely affected by the health crisis and Iceland welcomes initiatives undertaken by 
the Government to mitigate the impact of the pandemic.  
4.88.   As one of the co -chairs of the Informal Working Group o n Trade and Gender, Iceland 
appreciates Brazil 's constructive participation within the WTO on trade and gender.  
4.89.   This work is particularly important in the current global environment. COVID -19 related 
challenges continue to be felt and have been recognized to unevenly impact societies and 
populations. The economic and trade impacts of the pandemic have had a disproportionately adverse 
impact on women. This is a pattern that sadly also applies to other crisis arising from ongoing 
geopolitical conflicts.  
4.90.   At th e MC12 the ministers acknowledged for the first time the importance of addressing 
women 's economic empowerment at the WTO – and recogni zing the positive benefits that it will 
have on our economies.  
4.91.   The sharing of best practices of respective experiences re lating to policies and rulemaking on 
advancing women 's economic empowerment is an important element of the work of the Informal 
Working Group on Trade and Gender.  
4.92.   In the spirit of supporting relevant data gathering in this field, Iceland has submitted in 
advance written questions on the participation of women in the economy of Brazil.  
4.93.   We welcome the replies as the answers will be useful in gathering best practices in the 
promotion of gender -equality within trade.  
4.94.   Finally, Iceland once again appreciates Braz il's active participation and firm support to the 
multilateral trading system and its active engagement in the WTO. We wish the delegations of Brazil 
every success for their Trade Policy Review . 
NORWAY  
4.95.   Norway and Brazil have had a trade -related bilateral r elationship since the trade in bacalhau 
and coffee was established around 180  years ago. Norway highly appreciates our longstanding and 
strong bilateral relationship. Brazil is very present in our domestic economy, through exports of raw 
materials and food stuffs for our local production. And Brazil is a primary recipient of Norwegian 
investments, where the value of accumulated investments is US D 32.5 billion , 71% of that is 
invested in the energy sector. Much of the investments are made by the major Norwegi an 
companies, which all found their way to navigate, adapt, grow , and prosper within the Brazilian 
framework of doing business.  
4.96.   The potential for further export of Norwegian seafood to Brazil is considerable, including the 
export of Norwegian salmon. We co mmend Brazil for its availability for technical discussions to make 
market access more predictable, based on international standards and guidelines. Through these 
bilateral discussions Norway and Brazil have already achieved several milestones to facilitat e the 
trade between our two markets. However, there are still issues to be solved both for current trade 
and for potential new Norwegian species entering the Brazilian market.  
4.97.   Today stockfish and salted cod – "bacalhau " - represent about 97 % of our total seafood trade 
to Brazil. We thank Brazil for a fruitful technical meeting in Norway this summer. However, we 
struggle with the format of Brazilian data registration systems, as well as different methods of 
measuring the content of salt in stockfish and salted cod. We urge Brazilian authorities to show 
flexibility in this regard and look forward to further cooperation to find a solution. We also hope to 
engage in negotiations with Brazilian authorities to be able to export  salmon to Brazil. This trade 
has so far not been possible.  
4.98.   The Free Trade Agreement between EFTA and MERCOSUR  will bring new opportunities for 
trade and economic cooperation between Brazil and Norway. These opportunities, with special 
attention on impleme ntation of the Free Trade Agreement, will probably entail further dialogue  with 
special attention on market access issues. Norway wants to conclude the discussions on the 
outstanding FTA issues as soon as possible.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 23 - 
 
  4.99.   Increased competition within a predictabl e regulatory framework will strengthen the 
competitiveness of companies, and the productivity in important Brazilian sectors, such as energy.  
4.100.   Predictability is also key for foreign investment stimulation. Norway sees huge opportunities 
for future investments in Brazil where predictable and clear conditions are in place.  
4.101.   The signing of the bilateral agreement for the elimination of double taxati on with respect to 
taxes on income and the prevention of tax evasion and avoidance this month ( 4 November ) was an 
important milestone for the Norwegian business community in Brazil. Norway hopes the ratification 
process will be concluded soon.  
4.102.   Norway comm ends Brazil for its work on aligning itself with OECD 's standards and we support 
and look forward to working with you on Brazil 's accession to the OECD.  
4.103.   Brazil has an enormous potential for renewable energies, and Norway welcomes Brazil 's 
efforts in making  renewable energy economically competitive. There are booms in various sectors, 
especially solar and wind. But the prolonged process of building a regulatory framework for new 
technologies is of concern.  
4.104.   We welcome an increased implementation of projects in sectors such as Offshore Wind and 
Hydrogen, where Brazil and Norway have mutual interest and Norway has relevant experience to 
share with Brazil. Such projects could become a prerequisite for future investments as well as a 
well-functioning supply chain  prepared to execute future projects.  
4.105.   The Norwegian Government recently launched a new export strategy for a green transition, 
to strengthen value creation and cut emissions. There are areas of priority, such as hydrogen, 
offshore wind, carbon capture and  storage, batteries, and bioeconomy, where I believe our 
two countries could benefit from collaborating.  
4.106.   Norway welcomes the reported regulatory developments in the maritime transport sector in 
Brazil by the removal of cargo sharing agreements and governm ent cargo restrictions as well as the 
reform of the domestic maritime transport regulations. This will contribute to free and fair 
competition, reduced freight costs and stimulate the use of maritime transport. We appreciate these 
developments, that could serve as inspiration and examples for others to follow suit – including the 
removal of remaining Brazilian restrictions related to maritime transport of oil and oil products.  
4.107.   Norway calls upon Brazil to look into the institutional strengthening of the Braz ilian 
environmental licensing system, both when it comes to environmental impact assessment and 
protection of the environment, and in becoming more agile and predictable. In this way Brazil would 
not risk that environmental licen sing could become a non -tariff barrier for future business and 
investments in Brazil.  
4.108.   Finally, a recurring complaint by companies in Brazil is the costly and burdensome 
administration of tax payments. We therefore ask for updates on plans to reform, simplify and unite 
these systems . 
4.109.   Norway wishes Brazil a successful Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.110.   The United  States is pleased to welcome Minister Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel, 
Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the rest of the Brazilian 
delegation to the eighth  Trade Policy Review of Brazil. We welcome the Secretariat and Government 
reports and appreciate the opportunity to review the significant work Brazil has undertaken in the 
past five  years in Brazil and with partner co untries, including the United  States.  
4.111.   As described in these reports, over the past five  years Brazil has been implementing 
ambitious long -term structural reforms, designed to make its economy more competitive and 
resilient. With the onset of the pandemic,  Brazil 's projected growth came to a stop, and the 
government redirected resources to meet the urgent needs of Brazilians.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 24 - 
 
  4.112.   As our countries emerge from the pandemic, the United  States believes that we have 
opportunities to expand trade ties with Brazil in a manner that reflects shared values. Given the size 
and diversity of each of our economies, our trade covers everything from complex machinery and 
aircraft, sophisticated financial and information technology services, and pharmaceuticals. 
We believe that the rules we use for fair bilateral trade and sustainable growth can have a positive 
impact beyond our two  countries.  
4.113.   Brazil and the United  States have found areas for close bilateral collaboration since the 
last TPR. In 2020, we concluded negotiations on the Protocol to the Agreement on Trade and 
Economic Cooperation Relating to Trade Rules and Transparency ( or the ATEC  Protocol), including 
three  annexes covering customs administration and trade facilitation, good regulatory practices, and 
anti-corruption.  Although this negotiation was bilateral, the priorities reflected in the outcome 
support and complement our multilateral work in Geneva. The provisions on trade facilitation build 
from and expand on the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, reflecting new dev elopments for customs 
administration in areas such as digitalization and implementation of a single window for imports. In 
the area of good regulatory practices, the ATEC  Protocol rests on significant legislation Brazil had 
already undertaken to improve it s domestic processes and business competitiveness, including the 
Regulatory Agencies Law and the Economic Freedom Act. We appreciated hearing about Brazil 's 
work and innovations in the GRP thematic session last week for the TBT  Committee, exploring 
domesti c implementation of good regulatory practices and how these provisions are included in trade 
agreements. The ATEC  Protocol entered into force in 2021, with broad support in Brazil 's Congress. 
We believe it will be an important building block for our bilate ral and multilateral work with Brazil.  
4.114.   During the period of review, Brazil has taken important steps to strengthen connections to 
international institutions and instruments that can help diversify its economy, promote 
competitiveness, and create opportuni ties for Brazilians. These include its bid to join the Government 
Procurement Agreement (GPA) and the Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft, which we were glad to 
endorse at that Committee's formal meeting earlier this month. Brazil 's request to accede to t he 
GPA is supported by a new procurement law that has already significantly improved transparency in 
its domestic system. The United  States welcomes positive developments in the area of intellectual 
property (IP), including Brazil joining the Madrid  Protoc ol and taking important steps to accede to 
the Hague  Agreement. Since  2019, Brazil has also greatly reduced backlogs in processing patent 
applications and expanded the scope of its Patent Prosecution Highway program me. However, we 
continue to urge Brazil t o join certain other IP treaties, including the WIPO Copyright Treaty and 
WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty.  
4.115.   Most significantly, Brazil has been invited to join the OECD. We look forward to working with 
Brazil in its accession process.  
4.116.    The United  States particularly appreciated Brazil 's leadership earlier this year at MC12. 
Although we may not always agree on every issue, we share the idea that the WTO can be – and 
needs to be – a forum to negotiate meaningful outcomes on trade that improve the lives of people. 
We appreciate and value Brazil 's recognition that it will forgo blanket special and differential 
treatment in future WTO negotiations. We agree with Brazil 's statement in its Government Report 
that S&DT should be focused, needs -based, and directed to full implementation of WTO 
commitments. We appreciate Brazil's support for efforts to improve transparency and notification 
practices through practical process improvements and other actions that would streamline 
submission of notifications and  improve Members ' capabilities. We welcome Brazil 's collaboration on 
how to meet the global challenge of food security. Brazil 's dedication to the work at the WTO has 
been essential to the successes we have achieved.  
4.117.   The pandemic has shown all Members the  necessity for governments to support health of 
our people, address inequality, and foster resilience in our economies. We hope that recent 
improvements in unemployment and in business and consumer confidence are a signal of this 
resilience. We look forwar d to working with Brazil as a partner in building a resilient, rules -based 
trading system that meets the needs of people and fosters sustainable recovery around the world.  
4.118.   We would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank Ambassador 
Alexandre  Parola for his tireless work in Geneva and for his leadership of Brazil 's Mission. Brazil 's 
Mission team has been a driving force behind many important initiatives, and we have benefited 
greatly from Alexandre 's insights and perspectives as we worked  together to advance common goals. 
We wish him success in his onward assignment.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 25 - 
 
  4.119.   Thank you and we look forward to a robust discussion and productive Trade Policy Review.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.120.   The delegation of Costa  Rica extends a warm welcome to the delegation of Br azil, led by 
Mr Fernando  Meirelles de  Azevedo, Director of the Trade Policy Department at the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs, and the team at the Permanent Mission of Brazil to the WTO, whom we thank for their report 
and this morning's presentation. I would a lso like to thank the discussant, Ambassador  Piracha of 
Pakistan, for his valuable remarks, and the WTO Secretariat for its report and for its work, which 
has been as valuable as ever.  
4.121.   Turning now to the subject of this meeting: as a founding Member of the  WTO, Brazil has 
played a leading role in shaping the system and continues to be a key player in the negotiations to 
reform the WTO. Costa Rica and Brazil share a common outlook on the importance of agricultural 
trade as a source of employment and prosperi ty, and we work very closely on various initiatives in 
that regard especially where subsidies are concerned. Costa Rica also recognizes Brazil's leadership 
role in sanitary and phytosanitary measures and welcomes the successful adoption of the Declaration 
in that regard at MC12. We trust that we can work together on this matter in the future.  
4.122.   Costa Rica also agrees with Brazil on the importance of active participation in the WTO to 
generate new ideas and create an Organization that is responsive to new chal lenges as they arise. 
Accordingly, we welcome Brazil's incorporation into all joint initiatives and its co -sponsorship of the 
Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions. We also welcome Brazil's support 
for the successful completion of t he negotiations on services domestic regulation in December  2021.  
4.123.   The Secretariat report highlights Brazil's efforts to improve its economic fundamentals 
through structural reforms to drive productivity, potential growth and standards of living. It 
highlig hts Brazil's work during the pandemic that reduced the negative impact on the economy. That 
said, there are also macroeconomic challenges which, if not addressed in time, could increase 
endogenous risks, especially in an international environment that has recently experienced 
significant price shocks. The Secretariat report notes fairly low economic growth pre -pandemic that 
points to structural challenges, high inflation rates in the last year and a pandemic -induced rise in 
unemployment, which currently sta nds at more than 13%. We hope that the reforms instigated to 
address these challenges will soon yield results and standardize these indicators.  
4.124.   We are pleased to learn that the share of trade in GDP has risen significantly, reaching 39.2% 
of GDP in 2021. E xports are highly concentrated on partners and commodities, increasing the 
economy's vulnerability to external shocks. We call on Brazil to continue to work on diversifying 
markets and products and on attracting foreign direct investment in key sectors for  the business 
environment. We also invite Brazil to explore ways of stepping up its use of trade agreements in 
various formats beyond MERCOSUR's borders. There are important gains to be made by reducing 
tariff levels in the non -agricultural sector and simp lifying the tax regime.  
4.125.   That said, Costa Rica welcomes Brazil's efforts to facilitate trade through the ongoing 
modernization of its Single Window Programme. We also welcome Brazil's candidacy to join the 
OECD, a process that in our case helped to identify  and correct critical bottlenecks and which we are 
sure will be of great value to Brazil. Brazil has Costa  Rica's support in that endeavour.  
4.126.   As part of this review, Costa Rica submitted questions on investment policies and regional 
integration. We are keen followers of Brazil's implementation of its policies on climate change 
adaptation, especially with regard to sustainability in agriculture and energy. Lastly, I would like to 
thank Brazil once again for its report and for today's presentation. We wish  the country every success 
in this eighth Trade Policy Review .  
KINGDOM OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.127.   The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia is very pleased to take part in the eighth  Trade Policy Review 
of Brazil and would like to extend a very warm welcome to its distinguished delegation headed by 
H.E. Mr Fernando  Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the 
Ministry of Foreign Affairs . WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 26 - 
 
  4.128.   The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia thanks Brazil and the WTO Secretariat for their detailed and 
comprehe nsive Trade Policy Review reports. We also thank the discussant H.E.  Dr Muhammad 
Mujtaba P iracha , Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the WTO for his insightful 
comments.  
4.129.   Since 2017, a considerable amount of effort has been made by Braz il to improve its economic 
fundamentals. In 2018, Brazil's annual GDP growth rate increased to 1.8%, although it decreased 
to -3.9% in 2020 due to the COVID -19 outbreak. The Government of Brazil, in its efforts to overcome 
the disastrous impact of COVID -19 pandemic, has adopted timely support measures to enhance 
productivity and living standards in many areas, including organizational and institutional issues, 
labour market and privatization.  
4.130.   Brazil is an active participant in the multilateral trading syste m, and it continues to play a 
central role in the reinforcement of the system. It has participated in all WTO Joint Statement 
Initiatives . Simultaneously, Brazil has continued strengthening regional economic integration by 
singeing 34  regional trade agreem ents (RTAs) with many countries whether in Latin  American or 
outside.  
4.131.   We also praise Brazil for its performance in many areas such as the fully digitized export 
formalities, the upgraded Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), the improvement of its business 
climate through the 2021 New Business Environment Law and the creation of the Direct Investments 
Ombudsman (DIO) which has attracted significant foreign investments, especially in the fields of 
transportation, energy, water and sanitation, and this would al so generate additional investments in 
infrastructure.  
4.132.   The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia and Brazil are prominent partners in international trade, and 
they have a strong trade relationship which is supported by their shared membership in the G20. 
Trade exchange b etween the two  countries has increased over the past five years and exceeded 
USD 5 billion in 2021.  
4.133.   To conclude, I would like to thank H.E.  Mr Alexandre  Parola, former  Ambassador and 
Permanent Representative of Brazil to the WTO and his esteemed delegatio ns for the excellent 
cooperation between our two missions which serves our mutual interests and thank them for their 
active engagement in all WTO activities. Finally, I would like to congratulate Brazil for its solid 
economic performance, and I wish the de legation of Brazil a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.134.   May I warmly welcome Brazil 's delegation, led by Minister Fernando  Meirelles de  Azevedo 
Pimentel, to their eighth  Trade Policy Review.  
4.135.   We are grateful to the Government of Brazil and to the WTO Secretariat for their reports 
and, in particular, to the esteemed Chair and the discussant, for their expert insights.  
4.136.   Following Brazil 's recent federal elections, we look forward to continuing to work together 
constructively with the incoming Government to find bilateral opportunities and to advance 
progressive multilateral solutions, including here at the WTO.  
4.137.   In our written questions for this review, the UK was keen to gain a deeper understandin g 
regarding geographical indications , import and customs requirements, environmental and 
sustainability measures, and government procurement.  
4.138.   As Brazil 's previous 2017  TPR and the Secretariat Report for this review note, Brazil remains 
a somewhat inward -oriented economy. However, we were pleased to note developments in the 
moderni zation of Brazil 's economy and commend Brazil 's clear commitment to reaffirm the WTO as 
a central pillar of global economic governance and its cooperation within the multilateral trading 
system. We also recogni ze Brazil 's active engagement on various Joint Statement Initiatives.  
4.139.   We are encouraged by Brazil 's ongoing openness to international investment. We agree with 
Brazil that economies, like the multilateral trading system itsel f, should function as an instrument to 
improve the lives of everyone, and that investors depend on predictability and stability.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 27 - 
 
  4.140.   As such, there are key opportunities for Brazil and the UK to build on common ground. For 
instance, the UK Global Tariff, which  came into effect in January  2021, has secured over 
GBP 2.1 billion of import value by unilaterally removing barriers to green trade. This measure 
supports wind turbine components, renewable energy generation, and advancing carbon capture 
innovations and r esearch. This measure reflects the importance of trade in greening the global 
economy, as highlighted in Director -General Ngozi 's recent comments at COP  27 and in the WTO 
World Trade Report, that trade must be a cornerstone of climate action.  
4.141.   Similarly, to  grow international trade, UK Export Finance offers a dedicated GBP 2 billion 
clean growth direct lending facility, and long -dated financing (up to 18 -years for renewable energy 
projects) to provide a safety net for businesses. These are just a few example s of how the UK is 
supporting and expanding global sustainable transitions and economic growth.  
4.142.   Turning to new trade policy developments, we are proud to support Brazil to be the first 
Latin America country to have a digital marketplace of export services tailor-made for MSMEs ' needs, 
which is based on the United National Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business integrated 
services for MSMEs in international trade.  
4.143.   We also note that the BRAEXP platform is due to be fully developed by March  2023 and we 
look forward to seeing the trade -facilitating benefits which it will provide.  
4.144.   let me pay tribute to Brazil 's commitment to the trade facilitation agenda. Through the Trade 
Facilitation in Middle Income Countries programme, we were glad to support the World  Bank Group 
and the World Customs Organization to deliver to Brazil a Time Release Study, a WTO  TFA Gap 
Assessment, a Trade and Gender Survey, and a Poverty Impact Assessment.  
4.145.   We encourage Brazil to keep implementing the solutions appointed in those deliverables. 
These will enhance transparency and improve the effectiveness of international trade procedures, 
ensuring that benefits are reaped regardless of socio -economic status, ethnicity, or gender.  
4.146.   We are also pleased that the Secretariat 's Report notes that Brazil h as eliminated important 
duties on certain aeronautical goods and has implemented temporary tariff reductions in response 
to the COVID -19 pandemic. These measures demonstrate flexibility and an openness to international 
trade, and we encourage Brazil to imp lement further, similar, outward -looking measures.  
4.147.   Regarding Geographic Indication, the UK particularly welcomes Brazil 's recent commitment 
to progress the UK 's application for the protection of GIs in relation to Scotch whisky, and we are 
pleased with the  progress which we have made on a double taxation agreement to boost trade and 
investment between our countries.  
4.148.   We were also glad to share with Members that last Thursday 17  October we completed 
negotiations with Brazil on the UK Goods Schedule at the WT O, a great step in our bilateral 
relationship. Earlier this year, the UK welcomed the OECD Council 's unanimous invitation to Brazil 
to start on the path towards formal organization membership, a process which will surely prosper in 
the capable hands of Amb assador  Parola. Geneva 's loss is undoubtedly Paris ' gain. 
4.149.   Concerning Brazil 's accession to the GPA, the UK was pleased to receive Brazil 's latest market 
access offer in June  2022. To fully unlock the richness of our trading relationship, the UK would 
welco me further engagement to progress Brazil 's accession to the GPA, and in doing so become the 
first Latin  American country to accede. All of these proactive steps underline Brazil 's strong 
commitment to multilateralism.  
4.150.   To conclude, we wish Brazil well in bu ilding on its trade -centred growth path and we thank 
our colleagues in Brazil and here for their fruitful engagement in this important transparency 
exercise.  
4.151.   Finally, I say to our Brazilian friends, good luck to Seleção Canarinha . See you in the final.  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 28 - 
 
  COLOMBIA  
4.152.   Colombia extends a warm welcome to the delegation of Brazil, led by 
H.E. Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department at the 
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government representatives here today, and the entire team at the 
Mission of Brazil, with whom we have excellent working relations.  
4.153.   We are grateful to the discussant, Ambassador Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha, for his analysis 
and comments. The relevant elements he outline d have enriched this discussion. We also recognize 
the hard work of the Secretariat and the Brazilian authorities in the preparation of the reports.  
4.154.   Brazil has a buoyant economy and a robust external sector. Although growth rates have 
been low and dented b y the effects of the pandemic, the share of trade in its GDP rose by nearly 
15 points to 39% in 2021 and is running a merchandise trade surplus.  
4.155.   In trade policy there have been important changes in tariff structure and progress in trade 
facilitation, but c ertain aspects continue to make Brazil an inward -oriented economy.  
4.156.   The reports give an account of a tariff structure that continues to generate difficulties 
because of the range of tariff types and uses a progressive mechanism that tends to protect certain  
manufacturing sectors. The recent across -the-board reduction in its MFN tariff is a welcome step.  
4.157.   The tax system causes significant difficulties especially for importers because of the range 
of different taxes and associated procedures, and the benefits o ffered to certain exporting 
businesses. The tax on industrial products (IPI) in particular is complex and restricts the 
competitiveness of manufactures. We welcome the recently implemented reductions in this tax, 
which will have a significant effect on tra de dynamics.  
4.158.   Colombia shares with Brazil the objectives of export diversification and industrial 
development and a desire for free trade. In that context we find of interest the programme of tax 
and tariff incentives and benefits for businesses that are pr edominantly exporters.  
4.159.   Equally striking are the export finance and credit mechanisms; they have become more 
significant and have been brought into line with OECD standards.  
4.160.   We also note the growth in the services sector, where restrictions are low, the reg ulatory 
framework is stable and the contribution it makes to employment and economic diversification is 
significant. There has also been progress in e -commerce, especially in terms of connectivity, data 
governance and the digital transformation of the publ ic sector.  
4.161.   We welcome the progress in simplifying customs procedures and regulations, the 
development and expansion of the VUCE and the AEO and the implementation of electronic 
certifications of origin. Investment facilitation is another aspect worthy of n ote and figures such as 
the Investments Ombudsman are innovative. Moreover we welcome the progress made towards 
Brazil's accession to the Agreement on Government Procurement.  
4.162.   Brazil's record at the World Cup is unrivalled: it has played in every tournament  and has 
always made it to the latter stages. At the WTO, Brazil is a Member with a prominent leadership 
role, it is committed to the multilateral rules -based system, proactive in multilateral scenarios and 
active in all plurilateral initiatives.  
4.163.   Brazil's leadership at the agriculture negotiations was worthy of that of a five -time world 
champion, employing technical approaches and ambitious policies to move towards the goal of 
fulfilling the Article  20 mandate. We agree that MC13 must deliver a concrete res ult in this area.  
4.164.   We commend Brazil on its excellent record on transparency and compliance with notification 
obligations. It has played a beautiful game – jogo bonito – to the Organization's benefit . 
4.165.   Brazil's team is aware of the importance of teamwork and  chemistry between players. 
Therefore it comes as no surprise that MERCOSUR is so important in the country's trade policy, like 
LAIA and the network of trade and cooperation agreements built under it.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 29 - 
 
  4.166.   Our two countries have a bilateral relationship based o n trust and solidarity that dates back 
to 1907. Our countries are neighbours and we have developed alliances to tackle common challenges 
in the border zone and protect the Amazon region. Trade ties have been gradually strengthened 
through economic compleme ntarity agreements within the framework of LAIA and they have allowed 
Colombia to export a significant and growing level of industrial products to Brazil.  
4.167.   As part of this TPR, Colombia submitted questions on aspects of interest to our trade 
relationship su ch as support programmes for the agricultural sector; regulation of 
telecommunications services; the intellectual property rights regime; and fisheries subsidies. We 
extend our thanks to the Brazilian authorities for their responses.  
4.168.   To conclude, at the Wo rld Cup, the Brazilian team's outstanding performance means it is 
always one of the favourites, and many of us bet on it to win. At the WTO, Brazil's leadership and 
economic weight create high expectations of its role; we call on Brazil to continue its out standing 
performance in each of the pillars of this Organization and to keep scoring goals for multilateralism.  
4.169.   I shall close by wishing Brazil a successful conclusion to this Trade Policy Review. We extend 
our warm appreciation to His Excellency Mr  Alexan dre Parola, who until recently was Ambassador to 
the WTO, and to the Mission in Geneva.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.170.   I would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Brazil. We appreciate the 
comprehensive reports by the Government and the WTO  Secretariat. Our thanks also go to the 
discussant, Ambassador Dr  Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha  (Pakistan), for his thoughtful remarks. We 
hope that today 's discussion will contribute significantly to the transparency of current trends in 
Brazil 's economy.  
4.171.   Over the years, economic relations between the Russia n Federation  and Brazil have been 
developing in many areas and are underpinned by successful and fruitful cooperation in different 
international fora, in particular, BRICS.  
4.172.   In the first half of 2022 our trad e turnover increased by 47% compared to the same period 
of the previous year and amounted to USD  6 billion. Exports and imports increased by 68% and 
11%, respectively. The Russia n Federation  is an important destination for Brazil 's agricultural 
products, w hich account for 71% of its exports to our country. Russian companies are participating 
in several large -scale projects in various industrial sectors in Brazil. Our investments in this country 
accounted for USD  60 million in 2021.  
4.173.   Nevertheless, we see a g reat untapped potential for further enhancing the bilateral trade in 
goods and services and increasing investment flows.  
4.174.   The Russia n Federation  welcomes Bra zil's commitment to strengthening the rules -based MTS 
with the WTO at its core. We commend Brazil 's active participation in the negotiations in the lead -up 
and during the MC12.  
4.175.   We have submitted a number of written questions to Brazil, in particular, on trade defence  
measures, subsidies, SPS and technical requirements, investment policies and thank the delegation 
of Brazil for comprehensive replies. We look forward to further boosting economic and trade ties and 
developing our bilateral cooperation in international fo ra. 
4.176.   In conclusion, we would like to thank the delegation of Brazil, the Secretariat , and the 
discussant for the impressive work done so far and wish Brazil a successful Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 30 - 
 
  EUROPEAN  UNION   
4.177.   On behalf of the European  Union, I am pleased to participate in the eighth  Trade Policy 
Review of Brazil. I would like to warmly welcome Minister Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel  
and his team to Geneva.  
4.178.   Brazil is a strategic partner of the European  Union not just because its unique geog raphic 
and economic size on the South  American continent, but also because it has consistently produced 
many of the world 's finest diplomats and trade negotiators. This reflects a deep commitment both 
to open trade and to multilateral institutions. It is n o exaggeration to say that your Government has 
played a key role in shaping the Organi zation in which we are deliberating today.  
4.179.   Only last week we bade farewell to my friend and colleague Alexandre  Parola, to whom we 
collectively owe a debt of gratitude, not just for the eloquence of his statements and interventions, 
but also for his determination and sense of purpose in calling on WTO Members to rediscover their 
common sense of purpose and to explore new ways of negotiating.  
4.180.   The EU is Brazil's second  trading partner, and we are also the largest foreign investor in 
Brazil, with about 50% of total stock of foreign direct investment in your country. Therefore, we 
have a strong economic relationship and a large stake in your continued success.  
4.181.   As you are in tr ansition to a new government after last month 's elections, we would like first 
of all to pay tribute to the current administration for the measures taken over the last years to 
facilitate trade and investment, to improve the business climate, to put in pla ce new public 
procurement rules, and to further open the Brazilian economy to the world. There is always more 
work to do, but we would be remiss in not acknowledging these efforts.  
4.182.   Looking ahead, we welcome the opportunity to continue our engagement with the 
Government of Brazil, and will be encouraging you as you pursue the goals of social cohesion, fiscal 
stability and a further opening of the economy. The EU will also encourage Brazil to address a number 
of environmental challenges, notably to reverse t he current trend of rising deforestation, and to 
ensure that trade does not serve as a driver for such deforestation.  
4.183.   I would like to express our support for the improvements recorded in the period under 
review. One example are the recent measures in the field of IPR adopted in Brazil, which can be 
expected to reduce the current backlog of patent applications if the required resources are 
committed. We have also warmly welcomed the steps in the area of IPR enforcement.  
4.184.   At the multilateral level, I wish to convey the EU's appreciation for Brazil 's enduring support 
for a strong WTO, in which the Organi zation is able to rediscover the art of conducting and concluding 
negotiations successfully.  
4.185.   At the regional level, the EU is fully committed to our agreement with MERCOSUR. We are 
hopeful that the conditions can be put in place to enable signature in coming months and  look 
forward to engagement with the current and incoming administrations to achieve this.  
4.186.   Notwithstanding the overall positive message I have ju st given, we also have some concerns 
and I would like to turning to these. I will single out only some, which are of particular interest to 
EU companies and Member States given the time constraints:  
4.187.   First of all, we want to encourage you to advance on the  way to an effective and unified 
application of the import and customs procedures. European operators are frustrated by 
burdensome, costly and often redundant import procedures that require a disproportionately large 
quantity of documents. Cutting unnecess ary red tape is a win -win, as it will reduce the expenses of 
Government while at the same time making the economy more competitive.  
4.188.   We would like to emphasi ze the importance of sharing information on sanitary and 
phytosanitary matters and resuming our technical dialogue, which has unfortunately not taken place 
since 2018. This is regrettably long. Specifically we would encourage Brazil to speed up the approval 
of imports from the EU of products of animal and plant origin, the definitive pre -listing of 
establishments, and the audits to EU facilities. We also encourage Brazil to take the necessary steps WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 31 - 
 
  to treat the EU as a single entity, as quickly and pragmatically as possible. These are our biggest 
concerns in this vital area.  
4.189.   For imported products gen erally, we look forward to Brazil 's full implementation of the Single 
Window Programme to facilitate trade. We believe this could lead to a reduction in the number of 
non-automatic licen ces, and help to overcome some of the difficulties caused by Brazil 's unduly 
onerous import licensing system.  
4.190.   Tax discrimination is another area of concern. We would appreciate further information on 
Brazil 's current tax reform plan, including its timeframe. In particular, we would be interested in 
knowing how the Government  will address existing tax distortions between imported and domestic 
products that we believe are without justification.  
4.191.    In the field of services, we strongly encourage Brazil to further open up its markets to 
foreign enterprises, in particular in the fin ancial and insurance sectors and the legal professions, and 
at the same time make progress in improving the system of mutual recognition of professional 
qualifications and diplomas.  
4.192.   A week after the COP27 meeting and ahead of the COP on Biodiversity, we c annot fail to 
mention our shared aspirations in the field of the protection of biodiversity and the urgent fight 
against climate change. We have strongly welcomed the speech made at Sharm  El Sheikh by your 
President -elect. Trade and investment have an impo rtant role to play. We encourage Brazil to 
continue to create an investment climate favourable to renewable energy and to take action to 
decouple agricultural production and trade from deforestation. We are ready to cooperate with you 
as you try to meet th is challenge.  
4.193.   On behalf of the EU, I look forward to further exchanges of views during this Trade Policy 
Review, which I wish the utmost success.  
UKRAINE  
4.194.   Ukraine is pleased to welcome the distinguished delegation of Brazil on its eighth  Trade Policy 
Revie w.  
4.195.   We would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Brazil for their 
respective reports and express appreciation to Ambassador Dr  Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha  
(Pakistan) for his valuable remarks and comments  
4.196.   Over the last few years, we a cknowledge that the COVID -19 pandemic had adverse impact 
on Brazilian economy. However, Brazilian economy showed a strong recovery in 2021 with 4 .6% 
GDP growth resulting from timely adopted support measures.  
4.197.   Ukraine is pleased to note Brazil 's openness to  international trade and its integration into 
the world economy, implementation of trade and trade -related structural reforms aimed, among 
others, at boosting further economic growth and living standards.  
4.198.   Nowadays, we are witnessing new geopolitical challenges, caused by the 
Russian  Federation's  unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine. Its 
repercussions are hindering open trade and economic development all over the world, worsening 
global growth expectations, including the forecasts of Brazil 's economic indicators.  
4.199.   Ukraine is grateful for Brazil 's understanding and mentioning such global negative effects of 
the war on the Brazilian economy in its Report.  
4.200.   We commend efforts of the Brazilian Government and recent measures adopted to face 
current challenges and to provide resilient economic performance and we hope that Brazil will 
continue its growth pathway.  
4.201.   Ukraine considers Brazil an important economic pa rtner in the Latin  American region. We  are 
sure that our mutual interest is to expand our trade in goods and services and to improve trade 
balance by creating better conditions for trade, promoting business development, stimulating WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 32 - 
 
  investments and attainin g prosperity. We are looking forward to eliminating trade barriers and 
opening up our markets on mutually beneficial basis.  
4.202.   The war of aggression has led to the huge decrease in our bilateral trade.  
4.203.   During the past eight months of the current year, the vo lume of our bilateral trade in goods 
contracted by 59 .5% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to USD  169.4 million 
(exports fell by 90 .6%, imports – by 42 .2%). Prior to the war, our trade in goods and services 
recorded continuous growth – it increased almost twofold in 2019 -2021 (from USD  296 million to 
USD 572 million).  
4.204.   We are convinced that regardless the war and ongoing challenges, we can continue 
developing our bilateral trade and economic relationships.  
4.205.   We would also like to recognize Bra zil's active participation in the WTO, its efforts to 
strengthen the rules -based multilateral trading system and to promote open and predictable trade. 
We thank Brazil for its commitment to engage in discussions on reform of the WTO 's dispute 
settlement sy stem and in the negotiations of the WTO joint initiatives.  
4.206.   Reform on agriculture, with the aim of leading to fairer competition and a less distorted 
sector is also one of the top priorities for Ukraine. We welcome the opportunity to strengthen our 
cooperat ion with Brazil on advancing agricultural negotiations in the WTO to achieve successful 
outcome concerning domestic support and market access in agriculture.  
4.207.   We are pleased to see that Brazil is continuing to cut its tariffs unilaterally with the purpose,  
among other things, to mitigate the negative effects of the Russian Federation' s war against Ukraine, 
including rising living expenses for lower -income Brazilians and higher costs for companies.  
4.208.   Ukraine considers the issue of tariff liberalization as of extreme importance for recovery of 
exports and imports flows after the Russian -brought supply chains disruptions and support for 
fostering future economic growth. Ukraine raised questions to Brazil on its tariff regime and 
possibilities of its further libe ralization, taking into account the current economic situation.  
4.209.   It is worth noting, that currently Brazil is applying two anti -dumping  measures regarding 
products originating in Ukraine (heavy plates, seamless carbon steel line pipes for oil and gas 
pipeli nes). In our view, the export potential of Ukrainian producers could not threaten to cause any 
material injury to the Brazilian domestic industry because of emergency circumstances in Ukraine. 
Therefore, we submitted written question about possible revocat ion or review of anti -dumping 
measures on an expedited basis according to Brazilian domestic legislation.  
4.210.   Other questions of our interest concern customs cooperation agreements, Brazil 's views on 
future discussions related to dispute settlement and agricu lture issues in the WTO, its experience in 
the fields of intellectual property and telecommunications, etc.  
4.211.   Ukraine once again appreciates Brazil 's active engagement in the WTO and wishes the 
delegation of Brazil a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
SRI LANKA  
4.212.   Sri Lanka delegation welcomes the delegation of Brazil led by Minister Fernando Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We 
thank the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Brazil, for their comprehensive reports, and 
appreciate Ambassador Dr  Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha of Pakistan, on his insightful analysis as the 
discussant.  
4.213.   We acknowledge Brazil has identified industrial development; production diversification; 
technologica l upgrading; raising competitiveness; integration into global value chains and 
international markets; intensifying and diversifying exports; as priority areas in its trade -related 
policy objectives.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 33 - 
 
  4.214.   We have noted that Brazil 's openness to international tra de and integration into the world 
economy. Brazil remains open to inward FDI across the economy, despite certain foreign ownership 
prohibitions and limitations, or prior approval requirements in some sectors.  
4.215.   During the review period, Brazil took several steps to improve the business climate via 
regulatory, institutional, and procedural changes, and to facilitate foreign investment participation 
in several sectors. The legal and institutional frameworks for the protection of IP rights have been 
modified.  
4.216.   Brazil adopted measures to simplify regulations; increase transparency; encourage trade; 
introduced good regulatory practices; made progress in e -government and anti-corruption; continue 
streamlining foreign trade formalities; and gradually implementing its  Single Window programme.  
4.217.   Brazil has taken steps to strengthen the governance, and transparency of federal 
state-owned enterprises , and facilitate the entry of competitors. A new public procurement law was 
enacted in 2021 prohibiting discriminatory treatm ent between national and foreign suppliers.  
4.218.   We appreciate active participation of Brazil in regular activities of the WTO and negotiations 
on new trade -related topics and giving its great importance to the smooth functioning of a 
rules-based multilateral trading system. Moreover, Brazil has continued strengthening regional 
economic integration through RTAs with its main trading partners, within and outside the region.  
4.219.   However, we have noted that the relatively complex internal tax system, lack of a 
fully-fledged competitive financing system, infrastructure bottlenecks, fiscal imbalance, inflationary 
pressures continue to hinder, the full sectoral efficiencies in Brazil. However, we believe that 
structural reforms in necessary areas will enhance future prosp erity, and sustainable growth of the 
economy.  
4.220.   When consider bilateral trade relations between Sri  Lanka and Brazil, the value of Sri  Lanka 's 
exports to Brazil has recorded a 39% growth in 2021 compared to 2020. Sri  Lanka 's exports of 
apparel, rubber -based products, machinery components have increased substantially to Brazil 
in 2021.  
4.221.   The pattern of the value of imports from Brazil to Sri  Lanka, has been rather erratic during 
2017-2021, while synthetic rubber, woven fabrics , etc., have become major imports fr om Brazil.  
4.222.   It is commendable to mention that the Brazilian Cooperation Agency has agreed to provide 
technical assistance, with collaboration of the Federal University of Viçosa, for the development of 
dairy sector in Sri  Lanka, and together with the Feder al University of São Carlos , for the development 
of sugarcane industry in Sri  Lanka. Further, the Brazilian Cooperation Agency is scheduled to visit 
Sri Lanka later this year, to assess requirements in the dairy and sugarcane sectors, and explore 
opportunities in other areas for cooperation as well.  
4.223.   We also would like to mention that a technical team from the Ministry of Agriculture, 
Livestock and Food supply of Brazil visited Sri  Lanka to inspect Sri  Lanka 's compliance in necessary 
regulatory requ irements to export king coconut water to Brazil. Following the visit, the team has 
issued a satisfactory report to the inspected coconut manufacturing plants, and laboratories in 
Sri Lanka, suggesting certain minor amendments to comply with the Brazilian s tandards.  
4.224.   We acknowledge that Sri  Lankan Association for Software and Service Companies, and the 
IT Association of Brazilian Companies signed a MOU in 2021, to promote ICT Sector between the 
two countries. During  2022, both associations target to focus on opportunities in the artificial 
intelligence sector.  
4.225.   Further, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce of Sri  Lanka and the São Paulo Chamber of 
Commerce in Brazil have signed a MOU to promote bilateral trade between the two countries.  
4.226.   Sri Lanka believes that there could be many more potential areas to strengthen the bilateral 
relations between the two countries, and we look forward to exploring those opportunities.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 34 - 
 
  4.227.   We thank Brazil for its written replies to our questions, and we will forward them to our 
capita l for examination and follow -up. 
4.228.   In concluding, with appreciation we would like to mention the dynamic role played by 
Ambassador Alexandre  Parola and proactive engagement of his team in Geneva in ongoing 
negotiations and activities of WTO, is highly commen dable.  
4.229.   We sincerely wish Brazil a constructive and fruitful Trade Policy Review . 
PLURINATIONAL STATE OF BOLIVIA  
4.230.   El Estado  Plurinacional de Bolivia da la bienvenida al Ministro Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo 
Pimentel, Director del Departamento de Política C omercial del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores, al 
Ministro Braz Baracuhy  Neto, Representante Permanente Alterno y a toda su honorable delegación 
tanto de capital como en Ginebra.  
4.231.   Agradecemos la presentación tan exhaustiva de su octavo examen de política comercial y la 
información compartida con todos los Miembros de la OMC. Asimis mo, agradecemos a la Secretaría 
por su informe y al Embajador Dr.  Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha  de Pakistán por sus importantes 
contribuciones.  
4.232.   Brasil es un importante socio comercial para Bolivia, principalmente en el comercio de gas 
natural en estado gaseoso , urea, gas licuado de petróleo, boratos de sodio naturales y sus 
concentrados, plata, aceites en bruto, entre otros. Asimismo, Bolivia importa desde Brasil, barras 
de hierro, preparaciones compuestas para la elaboración de bebidas, polipropileno, pasta qu ímica 
de madera, entre otros. Caracterizando a nuestra balanza comercial como generalmente 
superavitaria , incluso  antes de la irrupción de la pandemia. Sin embargo, tal y como la delegación 
lo ha señalado, el COVID -19 ha sido factor determinante de la baja  del volumen de las exportaciones.  
4.233.   Es en este contexto, y bajo el espíritu constructivo que caracteriza el EPC, Bolivia ha 
formulado preguntas en relación con los regímenes aduaneros, la situación impositiva y estímulos 
fiscales, agricultura y facilitació n del comercio y digitalización con miras a una mejor comprensión 
de sus buenas prácticas dentro de los tres pilares que comprenden su programa de comercio, en 
este sentido, apreciamos  y agradecemos  sus amables respuestas  que serán enviadas a capital .  
4.234.   Encontramos convergencias en diversos temas que se abordan en esta casa tales como la 
reforma de la OMC, el funcionamiento del Órgano de Apelación , la reforma agrícola , respetando a 
un sistema multilateral de comercio basado en normas . Así como la preservació n del Amazonas en 
el marco de la Organización del Tratado de Cooperación Amazónica (OTCA), por lo que esperamos 
continuar fortaleciendo nuestr as relaciones y poder avanzar a una integración regional robustecida.   
4.235.   Finalmente, reiteramos el agradecimiento a la delegación de Brasil por la información 
presentada y les deseamos una exitosa conclusión de su octavo examen de las política s comercial es. 
ARGENTINA  
4.236.   The delegation of Argentina extends a very warm welcome to the delegation of Brazil, led by 
Minister Fer nando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department at the 
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and extends its thanks to the entire team at the Brazil Mission for their 
excellent, constructive work here in Geneva. Allow me also to thank D r Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha, 
Ambassador of Pakistan, for his presentation.  
4.237.   The economic and trade relationship between Argentina and Brazil is profound and strategic 
for both our countries. Brazil is our main trading partner and Argentina is Brazil's third largest. The 
trade interdependence of the two countries is clear from the composition of trade and its high share 
of manufactures. Therefore bilateral trade is key to maintaining and generating high -quality 
employment in both countries.  
4.238.   In 2021, industrial manufactures accounted for 54% of Argentine exports to Brazil, of which 
41% were automotive sector products, while agribusiness products accounted for 33% and fuels, 
energy and minerals 13%. Manufactures of industrial origin accounted for 8 3% of Brazilian exports WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 35 - 
 
  to Argentina, of which 42% were from the automotive sector, while agribusiness exports amounted 
to 11% and fuels, energy and minerals 6%.  
4.239.   Beyond this, there are other opportunities to enhance trade relations and investment flows 
between the two countries.  
4.240.   Energy is a key sector for both countries' economic development. Against a regional and 
global background of uncertainty as to energy availability we are working together to make progress 
in energy integration and complementarity in  order to meet demand from our sectors of production 
and among consumers.  
4.241.   The Argentine Republic is most interested to note the process of economic recovery in Brazil. 
We would like to highlight the Brazilian Government's plans to undertake structural and fiscal reforms 
to consolidate this process. We stress the importance of measures relating to customs procedures 
and trade facilitation. We recognize the challenges presented by the pandemic and welcome the fact 
that the Brazilian economy is showing signs o f sustained recovery.  
4.242.   Regarding agriculture, Argentina notes in particular that Brazil, with its low levels of domestic 
support and protection, is a competitive exporter of agricultural products at world level.  
4.243.   We note that the reforms to private investmen t are contributing to infrastructure expansion. 
Argentina is pleased that Brazil continues to be an attractive country for foreign direct investment.  
4.244.   The Argentine Government has confirmed that bilateral relations under the MERCOSUR 
project remain the linc hpin of our international economic integration. We welcome joint international 
integration that strengthens our negotiating position. MERCOSUR's external relations agenda is 
extremely dynamic in this respect. We note the intensification of the MERCOSUR net work of trade 
agreements, the modernization of the common external tariff and the reduction in non -tariff barriers 
to trade.  
4.245.   With regard to progress made at the MERCOSUR level, we note the revision of financial 
services agreements, the mutual recognition o f certificates for certain professional services, the 
Cooperation and Facilitation of Investments Protocol and the Agreement on E -Commerce, all of which 
are instruments to ensure that the bloc supports the development of trade between its members.  
4.246.   The Arge ntine Republic recognizes Brazil as a staunch defender of the multilateral trading 
system who shares our primary concerns and is a country that we work with actively at the WTO 
and in other forums.  
4.247.   We would like particularly to highlight the multilateral e fforts that both our countries are 
making to pursue the trade reform process in our capacities as members of the Cairns Group, 
members of MERCOSUR and countries in the Latin American region. We are firmly committed to 
moving towards agricultural trade libe ralization in order to reduce domestic support and market 
distortions. No agricultural reform will be complete without an expansion of market access for 
agricultural products that takes account of the adverse effects of non -tariff barriers to trade.  
4.248.   We tha nk Brazil for its replies to our questions relating to this Trade Policy Review, which 
will be carefully examined by our colleagues in Buenos  Aires.  
4.249.   To conclude, while reiterating our appreciation of this renewed opportunity to exchange 
information and com ments on the trade policies and practices of Brazil, we would like to draw 
attention once again to the importance of this exercise in transparency from every point of view, 
and wish the authorities a successful conclusion to this review.  
THE SEPARATE CUSTOMS TERRITORY OF TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINMEN AND MATSU  
4.250.   On behalf of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, I would 
like to extend our warm welcome to Brazil 's delegation, led by Minister Fernando Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pi mentel , Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , for 
its eighth Trade Policy Review. I  would also like to express our thanks to the discussant, WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 36 - 
 
  Dr Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha  (Pakistan), for his insightful comments, and the Secretariat for 
providing a comprehensive Report.  
4.251.   As noted in both reports, we are pleased to see that Brazil has made substantial trade policy 
efforts and has undertaken trade -related structural reforms which improve economic fundamentals 
and macroeconom ic resilience since Brazil 's last review in 2017. We commend Brazil for adopting 
measures to simplify regulations and increase transparency in trade, as well as for promoting the 
use of several tools related to good regulatory practices, including the obli gation of conducting 
Regulatory Impact Analyses/Assessments. We acknowledge Brazil 's achievement in advancing 
e-government and anti -corruption.  
4.252.   Brazil 's continued efforts to streamline customs procedures through its Single Window 
programme are welcomed. Notable developments include the fully digitized export formalities, the 
upgraded Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme. Although the risks to growth remain in 
place, we encourage Brazil to continue its efforts on productivity -enhancing st ructural reforms in 
revamping the complex tax and incentives regime, reducing the regulatory burdens on businesses, 
as well as closing infrastructure gaps for its sustainable prosperity.  
4.253.   At a multilateral level, we are delighted to see that Brazil remains active and committed to 
the WTO by its participation and engagement in all WTO Joint Statement Initiatives, including 
E-Commerce, Investment Facilitation for Development, MSMEs, and Services Domestic Regulation. 
We hope to see Brazil continue to advance di scussions in these initiatives. In light of the WTO 's 
plurilateral negotiation, it is commendable that Brazil has achieved great progress since May  2020 
in its procedure for accession to the Government Procurement Agreement （GPA ). We are pleased 
to see that  in June  2022 Brazil applied to join the Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft and we look 
forward to Brazil 's accession to both agreements in the near future.  
4.254.   At a regional level, we closely watch Brazil 's policy objectives of greater integration in the 
world economy through MERCOSUR and Latin  American Integration Association (LAIA/ALADI) with 
an emphasis on deepening existing agreements and negotiating agreements with trading partners.  
4.255.   On the bilateral front, we keep exploring opportunities to expand our trade volume in fields 
of mutually beneficial sectors. We submitted our written questions in advance regarding certain 
aspects of Brazil's trade policies that are of particular interest to us. We thank Brazil for its answers, 
which we shall examine careful ly. 
4.256.   In conclusion, the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu 
appreciates the opportunity to participate in this review. We look forward to continuing  close 
cooperation with Brazil in bilateral and multilateral relations and wish Br azil a most successful and 
fruitful Trade Policy Review.  
NEW ZEALAND  
4.257.   New Zealand welcomes this opportunity to comment on the eighth  Trade Policy Review of 
the Federative Republic of Brazil. Thank s to the Government of Brazil and to the Secretariat for 
preparing for this review. I also welcome the Brazilian delegation, led by Minister Fernando Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pimentel .  
4.258.   Brazil is a strong supporter of the rules -based trading system and a trusted partner for 
New Zealand in strengthening this system. We work closely together on agricultural trade 
liberali zation as members of the Cairns Group. We are both Members of the Ottawa Group and WTO 
reform is an area in which we collaborate. We commend Brazil on the constructive and creative 
approach the y have taken to tabling proposals in pursuit of reform. We congratulate Brazil for its 
active participation at MC12, including in support of fish subsidies reform.  
4.259.   Brazil 's constructive engagement in the Joint Initiatives is commendable, particularly in 
e-commerce and investment facilitation, as is its participation in the Multi -Party Interim Arbitration 
Arrangement. New  Zealand supports Brazil 's OECD accession and welcomes the progress made so 
far in the accession process.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 37 - 
 
  4.260.   We welcome Brazil 's consideratio n of how to incentivi ze sustainable agricultural practices. 
We encourage further progress in this area, particularly by ensuring regulation and compliance 
measures are fully implemented. New  Zealand welcomes further measures to develop carbon and 
methane t rading schemes that could function inter -operably with international markets.  
4.261.   New Zealand encourages Brazil to ensure TBT and SPS notifications are provided at least 
60 days in advance of the measure being adopted. This would bring Brazil in line with WTO practices 
and ensure Members have sufficient time to comment.  
4.262.   We are pleased to highlight Brazil 's commitment to promoting digital trade, which enables 
diverse communities to benefit from the international trading system. New  Zealand encourages 
continued e fforts from Brazil to reduce gender and racial inequality in rates of participation in 
international trade.  
4.263.   The current global energy crisis, caused by the Russia n Federation' s unlawful invasion of 
Ukraine, underscores the need to shift away from global de pendence on environmentally harmful 
and inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. In light of this, New  Zealand welcomes Brazil 's consideration of 
becoming a co -sponsor to the WTO Joint Ministerial Statement on Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform that 
seeks to create conc rete steps towards the reform of fossil fuel subsidies ahead of MC13.  
4.264.   We wish Brazil all the best for their Trade Policy Review.  
SWITZERLAND  
4.265.   I would like to join others by extending a warm welcome to the Brazilian delegation led by 
Director Fernando Meire lles de  Azevedo Pimentel, I would also like to thank the Secretariat for its 
substantive contribution to this review as well as Ambassador  Muhammad  Mujtaba Piracha of 
Pakistan for his observations.  
4.266.   Brazil is a very important partner for Switzerland, in all  regards – and relations date back to 
200 years ago when several thousand Swiss nationals migrated to Brazil, founded cities such as 
Nova Friburgo, Leopoldina  or Joinville, and contributed to the economic devolvement of their new 
country.  
4.267.   Nowadays, economic relations between Brazil and Switzerland are very substantial. With 
bilateral trade amounting to around USD 4 billion in 2021, Brazil is Switzerland 's most important 
economic partner in Latin  America. Brazil is also host to 400+ Swiss companies which, together, 
employ around 60 ,000 people  in Brazil , with investments representing more than USD 8 billion.  
4.268.   Here at the WTO, Switzerland would like to recognize Bra zil's active role in negotiations and 
discussions, including participation in WTO joint statement initiatives. Switzerland also welcomes the 
Brazilian commitment of 2019 to renounce to special and differential treatment in WTO negotiations, 
as well as its decision to join the WTO plurilateral agreements on government procurement (GPA) 
and on Trade in Civil Aircraft.  
4.269.   Brazil 's economy has been particularly affected by the COVID -19 pandemic, both in social 
and economic terms. In that sense,  the return of growt h in 2021 is a good sign of Brazil 's economic 
resilience.  
4.270.   Since its last review , we had value the measures undertaken in Brazil to improve the business 
climate, for example through regulatory adaptations, the reform of the pensions system, the partial 
privatization of some SOEs, or the establishment of a new public procurement law. And we wish to 
encourage the current as well as the incoming Brazilian administration to continue to work in this 
direction. In this context, we welcome and support Brazil's acc ession process OECD . Stable and 
modern framework conditions, including in tax matters, allow predictability and are key, in the long 
run, valori ze economic potential that remains untapped.  
4.271.   In addition, we remain convinced that diversification of foreign tr ade will continue to be 
essential to overcome temporarily disruptions of supply chains and that it will further improve Brazil 's 
competitiveness on world markets. That is why Brazil and Switzerland are working together towards WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 38 - 
 
  the finalization of a Free Tr ade Agreement between the EFTA States and the M ERCOSUR  States, with 
the objective to bring mutual benefits to our economies.  
4.272.   Increased trade is, no doubt, a driving force for economic growth. However, in our view, 
trade openness should go hand in hand with  considerations for sustainable development. We 
therefore invite Brazil to continue to  consider the preservation of the environment, the protection of 
indigenous people and the reduction of social inequalities when defining its economic and trade 
policies for the future.  
4.273.   To that end, Switzerland remains committed to work with Brazil both in strengthening WTO 's 
capacity in  addressing today 's challenges, and in expand ing trade and investment between our 
countries.  
4.274.   Ahead of this  review, Switzerland submitted a number of questions in writing, in particular 
regarding the applied MFN tariff, bindings, the automotive sector, as well as some sectoral policies. 
We thank Brazil for its replies.  
4.275.   We wish Brazil constructive and fruitful exchanges within this Trade Policy Review . 
4.276.   Finally, let me note that quite unfortunately for us Brazil and Switzerland are at the same 
group at the World Cup. The game will be next Monday, so may the best win.  
URUGUAY  
4.277.   Uruguay extends the warmest of welcomes to the delegation of  Brazil led by Minister 
Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department at the Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs, on the occasion of its eighth Trade Policy Review and thank him for his presentation. 
We would also like to thank th e Secretariat for its comprehensive report and 
Ambassador  Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha of Pakistan for his interesting talk.  
4.278.   This Trade Policy Review is taking place in a context of recovery from the consequences of 
the COVID -19 pandemic, which for Brazil, lik e other economies, posed major challenges, including 
a slowdown in domestic demand and imports. Nonetheless, we recognize that despite the situation 
that Brazil experienced and continues to face, the country did not adopt any restrictive policies or 
measur es. 
4.279.   Brazil is a strategic trade partner for Uruguay and our relationship benefits from the historic 
and cultural ties that bind our peoples.  
4.280.   It therefore stands to reason that Uruguay and Brazil are founding members of the Southern 
Common Market (MERCOSUR)  and that under its umbrella we are seeking to develop a trade policy 
that links us to the world as effectively as possible. We are therefore proud of our ongoing efforts 
within MERCOSUR to extend the network of trade agreements.  
4.281.   Brazil ranks second among Uruguay's trade partners for trade in goods, behind China. Our 
exports to Brazil include electricity, malt, plastics and plastic products, automotive parts, wheat, 
cereals and dairy products. Uruguay imports motor vehicles, plastics and plastic products, c apital 
equipment and furniture, to mention just a few sectors. Similarly, Brazil is a natural ally in 
constructing regional value chains that can add value to our products.  
4.282.   I would also like to highlight the Brazilian economy's openness to foreign investme nt. Brazil 
continues to be one of the leading countries of origin of investment in the region. Uruguay is one of 
the leading destinations for foreign direct investment from Brazil.  
4.283.   It is worth noting the work done to improve the statistics on trade in serv ices, particularly 
the breakdown by country of origin or destination. It reflects the significant scale of trade in services 
and enriches the relationship between the two countries.  
4.284.   Uruguay and Brazil agree on the importance we attach to the rules -based mu ltilateral trading 
system with the WTO at its core and share the need to ensure that it continues to be relevant in the 
future and can rise to the occasion. We are working together on implementing the commitments WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 39 - 
 
  entered into at MC12, the "Geneva Package",  especially in defending the mandate under Article  20 
of the Agreement on Agriculture, reviving the Appellate Body, implementing the agreement to 
prevent subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and on all topics relating to 
combating the  COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.285.   Brazil is part of the informal group on MSMEs and is proactive in proposing new items for 
the agenda and we are pleased to note at this eighth review that the country has incorporated many 
of the recommendations agreed by the group. Bra zil is a good example of how to implement the 
December  2020 package of recommendations and open the agenda to new topics such as MSMEs in 
rural areas.  
4.286.   I would like to acknowledge and express my appreciation for the hard work of Ambassador 
Alexandre Parola during his time in Geneva and thank his entire team for coordinating positions and 
for always maintaining a constructive approach when addressing the matters of concern to us.  
4.287.   In conclusion, we would like to reiterate our appreciation for this new exercise  in exchanging 
views on Brazil's trade practices, and look forward to closer ties and continued cooperation on all 
fronts: multilateral, regional and, in particular, bilateral.  
4.288.   Uruguay extends its best wishes to the delegation of Brazil for a successful Tr ade Policy 
Review.  
MALAYSIA  
4.289.   At the outset, allow me to warmly welcome H .E. Minister Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo 
Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and his 
delegations to its eighth Trade Policy Review. Ou r appreciation goes to the Brazilian Government 
and the WTO Secretariat for the comprehensive review reports and to Ambassador Dr  Muhammad 
Mujtaba Piracha  from Pakistan for his valuable remarks and assessment of Brazil 's trade policy 
development since its last review in 2017.  Malaysia appreciates the opportunity to participate in 
Brazil 's eighth Trade Policy Review today.  
4.290.   Malaysia lauds Brazil 's role in the  multilateral trading system and its continuous support to 
the WTO and in facilitating international trade against the turmoil facing the global economy. We 
also acknowledge Brazil 's participation in various regional integration efforts and free trade 
arrangements that promotes access to its market and attract investment.  
4.291.   At the multilateral front, Malaysia appreciates Brazil 's active and constructive role in the WTO 
such as the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) as well as in the neg otiations 
process in the run -up to the MC12 in issues related to among others, fisheries subsidies, WTO 
response to pandemics and WTO reform. As a fellow Cairns Group member, Malaysia appreciates 
Brazil 's contribution towards multilateral agriculture refor m work. Malaysia also welcome Brazil 's 
participation in the WTO joint initiatives, that Malaysia has also taken part in, on E-Commerce, 
Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD), Micro, Small and Medium -sized Enterprises (MSMEs) . 
4.292.   Bilaterally, Malaysia views with great importance of our trade relationship with Brazil, as 
Brazil is one of Malaysia 's largest trading partners in Latin  America. Malaysia is also Brazil 's second 
largest trading partner among ASEAN member States. Malaysia and Brazil enjoy close r and 
substantive economic relations over the years. In 2021, Malaysia 's total trade with Brazil increased 
by 35% to USD  3.83 billion compared with USD  2.81 billion in 2020; while our total exports to Brazil 
increased by 40.4% to USD  1.04 billion from USD  0.73 billion in 2020.  
4.293.   On the investment front, as of December  2021, a total of three  manufacturing projects with 
participation of Brazilian investments have been implemented worth USD  9.77 million. In 2021, 
Malaysia 's Direct Investment in Brazil was valued  at USD  1.12 million.  
4.294.   The positive economic relations between Malaysia and Brazil are not just on the bilateral 
front, but also within the context of regional and multilateral economic integration. The recently held 
Joint Trade Committee between Malaysia and Brazil hold promises for a potential enhanced economic 
cooperation between the two countries.  Perhaps, a cooperation between ASEAN and MERCOSUR can 
be explores in the near future.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 40 - 
 
  4.295.   For this review, Malaysia had submitted written questions on areas related to government 
procurement; Micro, MSMEs ; and investment and trade requirements.  
4.296.   We would like to take this opportunity to thank the delegation of Brazil for responding to our 
questi ons as we remain keen to explore the responses further.  
4.297.   With that, we wish Brazil a productive and successful eighth Trade Policy Review.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.298.   The Philippines warmly welcomes and congratulates the delegation of Brazil led by Minister 
Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs, and Minister Braz Baracuhy Neto , Deputy Permanent Representative of the Mission 
of Brazil to the WTO on their eighth  Trade Policy Review. We  also thank Ambassador Dr  Muhammad 
Mujtaba P iracha  of Pakistan for his insightful comments as discussant, and the WTO Secretariat for 
its comprehensive Report.  We would also like to express our profound appreciation for the 
contributions of Ambassador Alex andre  Parola to MC12 and to our work here in Geneva.  
4.299.   The Philippines enjoys a longstanding relationship with Brazil. To further expand and deepen 
the bilateral cooperation between the two countries, a bilateral consultation meeting  (BCM)  is 
regularly condu cted between Manila and Brasilia with the latest meeting convened in 
September  2021. The BCM provides a platform for exchanging views on issues of mutual concern, 
exploring new initiatives and discuss other aspects of the bilateral relations. Through the y ears, we 
have witnessed the growing breadth and depth of Philippines -Brazil bilateral cooperation.  
4.300.   In 2021, Brazil ranked as the Philippines ' 18th trading partner in the world with total bilateral 
trade amounting to USD  1.37 billion. Among the Philippine t op exports to Brazil are parts and 
accessories of data processing machines, storage units, digital monolithic integrated circuits (ICs), 
and carrageenan and seaweeds while top imports from Brazil include iron ores and concentrates, 
meat of bovine animals ( boneless, frozen), cuts and offal of fowls (frozen) and other meat of swine 
(frozen).  
4.301.   As noted in both reports by the Secretariat and Brazil, the outbreak of the COVID -19 
pandemic adversely affected the Brazilian economy. Economic activities and the labour  market were 
upset by health measures and supply shortages in both domestic and international value chains. We 
note that in 2020, Brazil put in place a targeted, and time -bound fiscal package to protect the poor 
and the most vulnerable disproportionally affected by the pandemic. The new spending measures, 
estimated to be 8% to 11.4% of its GDP, were focused on health spending, social assistance, and 
support to firms and workers.  
4.302.   Brazil is a firm supporter of the multilateral trading syst em and an active Member of the 
WTO including its dynamic participation in all WTO joint statement initiatives, such as e -commerce, 
investment facilitation for development, MSMEs, and services domestic regulation.  
4.303.   During MC12, Brazil announced it would join  the Trade and Environmental Sustainability 
Structured Discussions (TESSD) Ministerial Declaration and become a co -sponsor of the initiative. 
We welcome this announcement and as a party to the Information Technology Agreement, the 
Philippines encourages Br azil to also consider joining the ITA.  
4.304.   We also note that Brazil initiated its accession to the Agreement on Government Procurement 
(GPA) in May  2020 and is posed to be the first Latin  American country to become a full party to the 
GPA. More recently, Brazi l started its application to the Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft in 
June 2022. Brazil has also announced that it would begin to forgo special and differential treatment 
in WTO negotiations in March  2019.  
4.305.   Moreover, Brazil has been graduated from the GS P schemes of Japan, in 2019, and the 
Eurasian Economic Union in 2021. It remains a beneficiary of the GSP schemes of Australia, 
New Zealand, Norway, and Switzerland, while the renewal of its United  States GSP program me is 
still under legislative discussion . WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 41 - 
 
  4.306.   Further, Brazil took several steps to improve its business climate, specifically in facilitating 
foreign investment participation in air transport and financial services, as well as government 
procurement bidding.  
4.307.   Since the last trade policy review in 20 17, Brazil concluded and implemented 4 regional trade 
agreements (RTAs) to its network, which currently consists of 51  countries. Brazil is also on the 
process of signing and ratifying two RTAs and has several ongoing negotiations of new agreements 
and exp ansion of the scope of existing agreements.  
4.308.   The Philippines notes the significant developments in the economic policies of Brazil, and we 
appreciate the opportunity to learn more about these policies through this Trade Policy Review. Our 
delegation has sub mitted advance written questions and we thank the delegation of Brazil for its 
timely responses.  
4.309.   In closing, the Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial 
economic relations with Brazil in the bilateral, regional, and multilate ral fora.  
INDIA   
4.310.   Let me begin by extending a warm welcome to the Brazilian delegation led by H .E. Minister 
Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel , Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs . India is pleased to be part of th e eight  Trade Policy Review of Brazil today . My 
delegation further would like to commend the Government of Brazil and also its delegation to the 
WTO in Geneva, led by my friend Minister  Minister Braz Baracuhy  Neto, and to the WTO Secretariat 
for the comprehensive reports prepared for this review . I would also like to thank the disc ussant , 
H.E. Ambassador Dr Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha  (Pakistan ) for his insightful remarks . 
4.311.   India and Brazil enjoy extremely cordial relations based on shared democratic values and 
developmental aspirations, frequent exchange  of high-level visit s in recent years between the two 
countries has resulted in further strengthening and deepening our bilateral relations . Our continued 
cooperation and coordination in fora like the I BSA, BRICS , G20, G4 , as well as in the wider 
multilater al arena, including the WTO, UN, UNESCO, WIPO, et c., is in line with our shared vision of 
the evolving global order.  
4.312.   Economic and commercial relations have always been an important pillar of this relationship . 
India the fifth largest trading partner of Bra zil and the bilateral trade in 2021 was close to about 
USD 12 billion.  
4.313.   Investment by Indian companies in Brazil is growing steadily, a large number of Indian 
companies are present in areas including IT, mining, energy, biofuels, pharmaceutical s, 
agri-business , manufacturing , to name a few . The total estimated investment is roughly 
USD 6 billion, both countries, while they have complementary trade baskets with a tremendous 
potential to diversify and expand their  bilateral trade, certain specific concerns are undermining the 
realization of our vast potential for further growth .  
4.314.   In this regard, my delegation has submitted a number of questions on various  policies and 
measures of the Brazilian Government,  and we look forward to review ing the replies provided by the 
Brazilian delegation . However, we also take this opportunity to highlight some of those concerns and 
challenges . 
4.315.   We have been engaged bilaterally with Brazil on how to improve market access for a number 
of our exp orts, where  phytosanitary  measures have been the real stumbling block and we hope  that 
these discussions can be taken forward quickly so that it helps augment our trade further . Similarly, 
other non -tariff barriers which are basically the TB T, technical and procedura l requirements , they 
also need  addressing . Indian investors face considerable difficulties related to the complex regulated  
mechanisms for registration, the long -grown procedures, for instance, on issuing licen ces, taxation 
procedures, and certain legal  hurdles for investment approv als. 
4.316.   Major Indian pharmaceutical and IT companies which have presen ce in Brazil and are 
contributing already to the growth of Brazilian economy, are also facing similar problems, including  
in movement of qualified professionals, taxation, work permits , visas,  and sometimes language WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 42 - 
 
  barrier  related issues, particularly in th e area of business documentation . We hope and urge  the 
Government of Brazil to look into these issues comprehensively so that they can be addressed for 
our mutual benefit . 
4.317.   As per the Secretariat  Report , we note that Brazil, like most economies, also faced the 
down turn in economic growth owing to the COVID -19 pandemic . However, the trade and trade 
related structural reforms focused on boosting productivity potential  for growth and living, improving 
living standards  that have been undertaken in several areas,  including regulatory institutional issues, 
privatization , and the need also of the labour  market are proving to be extremely beneficial to Brazil 
and also have been helping  to attract further foreign investment to the country.  
4.318.   Since the last Review of Brazil , we note that a number of constitutional amendments relating 
to further financial resources , emergency to address socio -economic consequences of COVID -19 
pandemic, they all have been undertaken . Similarly, we also see that despite the economic 
challenges , the Brazilian Government initiative to either eliminate or simplify or streamline several 
border measures, including targeted domestic support, administr ative process es have been helpful 
to ensure that these concessions  remain important to the se sectors and then it has also helped in 
the growth of the sector s in a number of areas.  
4.319.   Finally, we welcome the commitment of Brazil to the multilateral trading sys tem, both India 
and Brazil have a shared interest in a strong and effective  multilateral trading system led by the 
WTO, and we look forward to working with Brazil closely in achieving the shared objective . We also 
remain committed to cooperate and partner with Brazil  in further expanding and deepening our 
bilateral trade and investment ties our mutual benefit . 
4.320.   In closing,  India wishes  the delegation of Brazil a productive and successful Trade Policy 
Review . 
REPUBLIC OF KOREA  
4.321.   The Korean delegation joins othe r speakers in welcoming H .E. Minister Fernando Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of 
Brazil, and his delegation to Geneva. We also thank Deputy Permanent Representative 
Braz Baracuhy  Neto. Our thanks also go to Ambassador Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha of Pakistan for 
his insightful remarks as a discussant and the Secretariat for its comprehensive Report.  
4.322.   At the outset, my delegation appreciates the strategic and cooperative partnership between 
the Republic of Korea and Brazil. Brazil is Korea 's key partner in Latin America. It is Korea 's number 
one investment destination in the region, totalling  up to more  than USD 10 billion. Brazil is also 
Korea 's second largest trading partner in the region with the trade volume exceeding USD 11 billion. 
More than 120  Korean companies in automobile, electronics, and steel industries are active in the 
Brazilian market. So  as to strengthen economic integration through RTAs, the Republic of Korea and 
Brazil have also been working on the Korea -MERCOSUR FTA since 2018. My delegation is positive 
that the conclusion of the negotiations, which has been in progress since 2018, wil l give further 
momentum to the expansion of our relations.  
4.323.   On the multilateral front, the Korean delegation commends that Brazil has continued its 
efforts to further integrate into trade and also to contribute to the multilateral trading system. 
Brazil 's priority in facilitating the multilateral trading system is shown clearly through its active 
participation in the WTO. Brazil is a steady participant in the regular committees, while my delegation 
also highly appreciates Brazil 's efforts to champion the WTO  reform process. Brazil is also 
participating actively the joint statement initiatives (JSIs) on domestic regulations, e -commerce, 
investment facilitation, and MSMEs. In the e -commerce JSI in particular, the Republic of Korea and 
Brazil have been cooperati ng on the joint proposal on Access to Online Platforms. My delegation also 
welcomes the ongoing process of Brazil 's accession to the GPA and the Agreement on Trade in Civil 
Aircraft. In this spirit, we encourage Brazil to also consider joining the Informat ion Technology 
Agreement (ITA).  
4.324.   From a trade policy perspective, it is commendable that Brazil has been exerting efforts to 
improve and streamline its trade policies across sectors, based on its three pillars of work including 
through trade agreement netwo rks, the modernization of the tariff structure, and strengthening WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 43 - 
 
  trade facilitation. In particular, we note the rapid digitalization of Brazil 's trade formalities, including 
its Single Windows Programme.  
4.325.   It is encouraging to witness sustained recovery in  Brazil after being impeded by the restricted 
measures and disruption in value chains arising from the C OVID -19 pandemic.  
4.326.   It is expected that additional efforts to reduce the unemployment rate and to further promote 
the recovery of industries would contri bute to restoring pre -pandemic levels of growth. The 
implementation of various incentive programmes would also encourage increased production and 
investment. In the longer run, more measures with a focus on sustainability and increased support 
for start-ups and innovation will contribute to enhancing the technology and competitiveness of 
companies, on both domestic and international levels.  
4.327.   On the other hand, it is also recommended to continue to strengthen measures to improve 
governance practices and enha nce transparency, with a view to creating a favourable  business 
environment and in the operation of SOEs. Furthermore, the complexities of Brazil 's taxation system, 
including cross -border taxation requirements and varying requirements across the federative  states, 
may be challenging for foreign businesses.  
4.328.   In this vein, my delegation submitted questions regarding the continuation of the Local 
Content Requirements (LCR) that is mentioned in the report and Brazil 's taxation system. As it is in 
the interest of  foreign companies to receive more information and clarity on the taxation system —
including internal taxation, export border adjustment, and tax incentives —my delegation looks 
forward to Brazil 's continued attention to supporting a favourable  business envi ronment for foreign 
companies. We will study Brazil 's response to this issue carefully once we receive them.  
4.329.   My delegation once again appreciates Brazil 's steadfast support for the rules -based 
multilateral trading system. My Government looks forward to con tinuing its close cooperation with 
Brazil in the collective efforts to strengthen and facilitate the global trade environment.  
4.330.   In closing, the Korean delegation wishes Brazil a successful T rade Policy Review . 
CHILE  
4.331.   The delegation of Chile welcomes the delegation of Brazil, led by Minister 
Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department at the Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs, and commends the country on the work carried out since its last review.  
4.332.   We also welcome the entire tea m of the Mission of Brazil to the WTO. We appreciate the 
work done by both the Secretariat and Brazil in preparing their respective reports and we commend 
the discussant, H.E.  Dr Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha, Permanent Representative of Pakistan.  
4.333.   Chile and Bra zil have historically had positive bilateral economic and trade relations that 
have focused on joining forces to strengthen trade flows.  
4.334.   Brazil is Chile's leading trading partner in the region and its third largest at world level. In 
2021, more than 1,000  products and services from nearly every region in Chile were exported to 
Brazil by 1,109  businesses, 31% of which were SMEs. Some 23% of our exports to Brazil were food 
products and the country is an important destination for our non -traditional exportable  supply. In 
fact, almost 52% of exports are non -copper shipments.  
4.335.   Brazil is the leading recipient of direct investment from Chile abroad, with a cumulative stock 
of USD  37,915  million between 1990 and 2020, equivalent to 28% of all Chilean direct investmen t 
worldwide. There are 130  businesses rolling out more than 260  projects.  
4.336.   Deepening this relationship is a matter of priority for Chile, even more so in view of the 
difficulties that trade and investment have experienced as a result of the pandemic, not to  mention 
in addition to the challenges posed by the new digital economy era and the new approaches it heralds 
for trade in goods and services, investment, technological and scientific innovation, and global value 
chains and productive linkages.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 44 - 
 
  4.337.   The trade r elationship between Chile and Brazil is covered by Economic Complementarity 
Agreement No.  35 Chile -MERCOSUR (ACE  No. 35), which has been in force for 26  years for the bloc's 
four founding countries.  
4.338.   The relationship was strengthened by the signature in 201 8 of the Chile -Brazil Free Trade 
Agreement that entered into force in January  2022 and is part of ACE No.  35 under Protocol  No. 64. 
4.339.   The Free Trade Agreement includes provisions on e -commerce, good regulatory practices, 
transparency and anti -corruption, reg ional and global value chains, gender, environment and labour 
matters.  
4.340.   The chapter on regional and global value chains provides the Agreement with a vision of 
modern trade integration that enables new business opportunities by coordinating productive 
linkages between businesses in both countries. In that regard, the chapter on micro, small and 
medium -sized enterprises and entrepreneurs is of note; in it, both countries specified their support 
for the growth and development of MSMEs, raising their capacity t o participate in and benefit from 
the opportunities created by the Agreement.  
4.341.   Allow me also to highlight the chapter on gender, where the overall objective is to raise 
women's participation in international trade. It recognizes the importance of mainstream ing gender 
into the promotion of inclusive economic growth and the key role that gender policies can play in 
achieving sustainable economic development. It refers to cooperation activities, including building 
capacity in decision -making and the boardroom; women's leadership in sciences, technology, 
engineering, mathematics, business and innovation; financial education; entrepreneurship and the 
entrepreneurial spirit; gender -responsive care policies and programmes where social responsibilities 
are shared in the public and private sectors; promotion of joint projects financed by international 
bodies; and the collection of intersectional information disaggregated by sex.  
4.342.   The fruitful relationship between Chile and Brazil is also part of the current discussions 
between the Pacific Alliance and MERCOSUR on a memorandum of understanding establishing a 
commission to facilitate and strengthen joint trade, vested with functions that would allow 
discussions at political level on matters related to trade fac ilitation and non -tariff barriers, thus 
enabling it to identify measures to take at the technical level in order to facilitate trade between the 
countries of both bodies.  
4.343.   Uruguay regards Brazil as an important partner within the WTO, including in our joint  
participation in discussion groups on matters such as agriculture, WTO reform and the restoration 
of the dispute settlement mechanism. We are also both participants in the various joint statement 
initiatives concerning e -commerce, investment facilitation for development, MSMEs and services 
domestic regulation.  
4.344.   Brazil is also party to discussions on trade and women's economic empowerment and, more 
recently on trade and environmental sustainability. Chile is also involved in these discussions and 
regards the m as key to analysing how trade can contribute to efforts to address significant current 
challenges.  
4.345.   As part of this review, Chile has posed questions on matters including investment, technical 
regulations, services, telecommunications, digital transformat ion and trade policy objectives in the 
context of South America and MERCOSUR.  
4.346.   We would like to highlight the programmes and policies set out in the Government report 
that seek to incentivize and establish a way forward for Brazil's MSMEs in exporting their  products 
and services, as well as the policies that Brazil has incorporated to help women unlock the benefits 
of external trade.  
4.347.   In conclusion, we wish Brazil every success in its eighth Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 45 - 
 
  DOMINICAN  REPUBLIC  
4.348.   The delegation of the Domi nican  Republic extends its thanks to Minister 
Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department at the Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs of Brazil. We also extend our thanks to Ambassador Dr  Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha, 
Permanent Repre sentative of Pakistan, for his presentation.  
4.349.    The Reports show how our sister country, Brazil, like the vast majority of the Member States 
of our Organization, has had to redouble its efforts in the last two years to improve its economic 
fundamentals and strengthen macroeconomic resilience following the COVID -19 pandemic. We note 
how the impact of the COVID -19 pandemic negatively affected its economic growth, and that there 
was a measure of recovery in 2021, with economic growth estimates of 4.6% as a result of the 
measures taken.  
4.350.   The Report notes improvements in the business environment but also shortcomings in 
various areas where reforms have been introduced. However, it also refers to new threats such as 
inflation and unemployment.  
4.351.   With a view to encouraging productivity, potential growth and its population's quality of life, 
in the last five years Brazil has adopted trade and trade -related structural reforms in fields such as 
regulatory and institutional matters, privatization and the la bour market. The reforms have had 
positive outcomes for private investment in the transportation, energy, water and other sectors. The 
review also notes the adoption of a broad, targeted, and time -bound fiscal package focused on health 
spending, social ass istance, and support to firms to contain layoffs.  
4.352.   We note that the objectives of Brazil's trade policy continue to be industrial development, 
production diversification, technological upgrading, raising the competitiveness of domestic 
products, and integra tion into global value chains and international markets, as well as intensifying 
and diversifying exports.  
4.353.   Formal relations between the Dominican  Republic and Brazil date back more than a century. 
They grow stronger every day. Currently there is no trade a greement between the 
Dominican  Republic and Brazil. Where trade in goods is concerned, exports from the 
Dominican  Republic to Brazil in the last 10  years have remained low, while imports from Brazil have 
averaged USD  600 million annually.  
4.354.   Moving on to trad e in services, specifically tourism, the Dominican  Republic received around 
111,000  tourists from Brazil in 2019, pre -pandemic. This year, 2022, the Dominican  Republic 
expects to welcome around eight  million air passengers and more than one  million tourist s through 
its tourist ports. We therefore note with pleasure that tourism from Brazil is approaching 
pre-pandemic levels.  
4.355.   The delegation of the Dominican  Republic would like to extend its thanks in advance to the 
delegation of Brazil for its responses to t he written questions our country will submit; they will merit 
our full attention.  
4.356.   To conclude, we would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our thanks to Brazil and wish 
the country a successful Trade Policy Review. We wish the Brazilian people and Government all the 
best, especially in continuing to improve their quality of life, development and leadership on the 
international stage  
VIET NAM 
4.357.   Viet Nam would like to thank the delegation of Brazil led by Minister Fernando Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pimentel , Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , and 
the WTO Secretariat for their comprehensive reports which created the foundation for our discussion 
today. We would also like to express our appreciation to the discussant , H.E. Ambassador 
Dr Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha , Permanent Representative of Pakistan for his insightful comments.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 46 - 
 
  4.358.   Viet Nam acknowledges Brazil 's major contributions and commitments to the WTO as well 
as its engagement in various processes ongoing in the multil ateral trading system, particularly its 
active participation in the negotiations during the WTO 's MC12.  
4.359.   Viet Nam commends Brazil achievements as recognized in the Secretariat Report, notably 
in 2021, Brazil was estimated the largest economy in Latin  Americ a and the Caribbean, the 
third largest in the Americas, and the twelfth  largest in the world in terms of gross domestic 
product  (GDP). Viet  Nam takes good note that during the review period, Brazil adopted measures to 
simplify regulations, increase transparency, encourage trade, as well as made progress in 
e-government and anti -corruption. Brazil has participated in all WTO joint initiatives and remains 
open to and encourages inward foreign direct investment (FDI). Viet  Nam also notes Brazil 's massiv e 
efforts in response to C OVID -19 through a large, targeted, and time -bound fiscal package focused 
on health spending, social assistance, as well as support to firms and workers, including SMEs.  
4.360.   As regards bilateral trade, Brazil has always been Viet  Nam's biggest trading partner in 
Latin America. Since the two countries ' official establishment of diplomatic relations in 1989, bilateral 
trade volume has grown substantially. In 2021, the two -way trade volume hit a record of 
USD 6.36 billion, an increase of 3 5.2% compared to 2020; among these, Viet  Nam exports to Brazil 
were USD 2.26 billion, and Brazil 's exports to Viet  Nam were USD 4.1 billion. Positive results are 
maintained in 2022, with a bilateral trade volume of USD 5.05 billion by the end of September,  
up 5.4% over the same period; among these, Viet  Nam exported to and imported from Brazil were 
USD 1.66 billion and USD 3.38 billion, respectively. We do hope that the two countries can continue 
working closely toward a more balanced trade in the coming ti me.  
4.361.   Before concluding, Viet  Nam would like to register our interest in Brazil 's policy on the 
evaluation of the economy 's market status. We believe that deeper engagement with Brazil on this 
issue will be critical for us to better understanding their appr oach, thereby further making use of the 
untapped potentials awaiting the two  countries. This issue was elaborated with some other questions 
which we have sent in writing prior to this meeting to the Brazilian Delegation. We sincerely look 
forward to receiv ing the response soon.  
4.362.   Last but not least, Viet  Nam would also like to thank H.E . Mr Alexandre  Parola and his team 
at the Mission in Geneva for their active engagement and encourages Brazil to continue playing an 
active role in the WTO to improve the functioning of the multilateral trading system. Viet  Nam wishes 
Brazil every success in its Trade Policy R eview . 
EL SALVADOR  
4.363.   On behalf of the Government of El Salvador, I am pleased to welcome the delegation of the 
Government of Brazil led by Minister Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of the Trade 
Policy Department at the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs. I would also like to welcome Minister 
Braz Baracuhy  Neto in his capacity as Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the WTO, and 
all the team from the Permanent Mission in Geneva.  
4.364.   We extend our thanks to the Secretariat for its comprehensive report and to the discussant, 
Ambassador  Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha, for his specific, sound assessments.  
4.365.   El Salvador considers it a matter of the utmost importance to participate in this exercise in 
transparency that underpins operations and e ncourages confidence between Members at the 
multilateral level. Brazil's Trade Policy Review provides a comprehensive, detailed and systematic 
picture of the trade policies adopted in the review period in various areas of interest to 
Latin American countri es. 
4.366.   Globally, all Members face challenges because of the crisis resulting from the pandemic, 
when widespread value chain supply shortages played havoc with our economies. Therefore it is 
important to note the fiscal measures adopted by Brazil that have hel ped to mitigate the impact of 
the crisis not only on vulnerable people, but on businesses, which play a key role in economic 
performance.  
4.367.   Another relevant aspect is the focus that those measures put on raising productivity and 
developing the labour market – two factors that have a positive effect on the economy and are WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 47 - 
 
  reflected in greater foreign direct investment (FDI) in the services sector. This can have a positive 
impact on people's incomes. However, the Secretariat report shows a rise in the Gini coef ficient, 
showing that there are challenges in this area as there are in other economies.  
4.368.   El Salvador considers that the pillars of Brazil's trade policy, namely expanding the trade 
agreements network, modernizing MERCOSUR's Common External Tariff and reduc ing non -tariff 
barriers to trade, are key to achieving the objectives set for export diversification, industrial 
development, the greater competitiveness of domestic products and integration in global value 
chains. El  Salvador commends all Brazil's efforts  to modernize and simplify regulations.  
4.369.   Within the multilateral framework, it is important to emphasize Brazil's active participation 
in regular committees, joint initiatives and all the new issues that have recently been under 
discussion in this Organizat ion. Brazil continually promotes transparency in the measures that 
Members adopt, and advocates a rules -based multilateral trading system that enables developing 
countries to achieve real and effective gains. Like Brazil, El  Salvador promotes agricultural 
negotiations with a view to reducing trade barriers and facilitating trade for our exporters.  
4.370.   In terms of bilateral relations, El  Salvador has received foreign direct investment from Brazil 
since 2021, and the amount rose by 16% between 2021 and the second  quarter of 2022. Trade  flows 
have developed favourably in recent years, with the value of Salvadoran exports more than doubling 
between 2021 and 2022; the main export products were herbicides, germination inhibitors and 
growth regulators for plants. For t his reason we anticipate that in the coming years relations between 
us will be consolidated and strengthened.  
4.371.   We have submitted a question to the Brazilian delegation on the measures taken to improve 
the business climate and bilateral investment promotion and protection agreements, and will study 
the replies with care.  
4.372.   It only remains for us to wish Brazil every success in this review . 
ECUADOR  
4.373.   Ecuador welcomes the delegation of Brazil led by 
Mr Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel,  Director of the Trade P olicy Department at the Ministry 
of Foreign Affairs. Although he is not with us today, I would like to extend particularly warm greetings 
to my colleague Ambassador Alexandre  Parola for his sound, professional conduct as his country's 
chief representative during a critical time fraught with international economic and trade -related 
challenges. We also acknowledge the analysis and points of view set out today by the discussant in 
this review, His Excellency Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha, Ambassador of Pakistan.  
4.374.   Ecuador hopes that the Brazilian economy will continue on the road to recovery following the 
crisis of the COVID -19 pandemic and its human and economic aftershocks. The outlook is positive 
although, like all countries, continued action on the part of the pub lic authorities and civil society 
will be required in respect of matters of collective interest. From the reports presented by the 
Secretariat and Brazil we note that organized, systematic efforts to that end are under way. The 
reports reflect efforts made , among other things, to foster innovation, strengthen MSMEs and lay 
strong foundations for attracting investment.  
4.375.   The Ecuadorian delegation has followed with particular interest the mechanisms for 
Regulatory Impact Analysis and their implementation by the  Direct Investments Ombudsman (DIO). 
We would expect these efforts to result in a more robust production system together with a similar 
improvement in the Brazilian population's standard of living, and to ensure steady progress towards 
meeting the Sustaina ble Development Goals and other objectives of the 2030  Agenda.  
4.376.   Brazil is an important political and trading partner for Ecuador. We import an extensive range 
of manufactured products from Brazil, including automobiles, heavy machinery and medicines. It is 
also one of the trading partners that supplies us with wheat. In 2021, the value of imports reached 
USD 919 million.  
4.377.   In 2021, Ecuadorian exports to the Brazilian market were worth USD  118 million. We would 
like to continue to extend our trade relationship with Brazil and for our flagship products – bananas WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 48 - 
 
  and shrimp – to increase their presence in the Brazilian market. I am also pleased to say that Brazil 
is a source of foreign direct investment for Ecuador, to the tune of USD  299 million between 2017 
and 2021. We expect that Ecuador's investment climate, the new measures that Ecuador has taken 
to promote productive investment and the magnificent relations between our two countries will help 
to increase FDI flows.  
4.378.   Within the WTO, Ecuador shares Brazil's com mitment to multilateralism through full 
implementation of the trade rules that frame our Organization's actions. We therefore join Brazil in 
calling for the appointment of Appellate Body members to ensure the normal functioning of the 
dispute settlement me chanism, with a view to restoring the institutional framework of the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.379.   For reasons of time I shall not refer to the other positive positions taken by Brazil, and which 
Ecuador shares, in the WTO and its subsidiary bodies. I shall only recall that as part of the 
12th WTO Ministerial Conference, Brazil and other Latin American countries, including Ecuador, 
encouraged the presentation of a joint statement on agricultural negotiations. In it, we reflected our 
interest in promotin g reform of the rules in line with the mandate under Article  20 of the Agreement 
on Agriculture in order to safeguard food security and ensure sustainable development through 
trade.  
4.380.   Ecuador has submitted questions for consideration by Brazil through the Se cretariat, and we 
look forward to receiving replies.  
4.381.   In conclusion, I wish Brazil a successful Trade Policy Review . 
TÜRKIYE  
4.382.   We welcome the delegation of Brazil headed by Minister Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo 
Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Departme nt of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  
4.383.   We thank the Secretariat and the Government of Brazil for their detailed reports as well as 
discussant Ambassador Dr  Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha of Pakistan for his invaluable remarks.  
4.384.   During the review period, although effected by the pandemic, Brazil 's economy continued to 
be one of the biggest economies in the world.  
4.385.   Trade and trade related structural reforms were driving force behind its economic success 
which also contributed to its multilateral trade outlook.  
4.386.   We commend Brazil 's active participation in negotiations, discussions and work of the WTO 
regular bodies. We are pleased to collaborate with Brazil in all joint statement initiatives.  
4.387.   Brazil is one of our strategic partners in Latin  America. We see Brazil not  only as a key 
partner in its region, but also as a global player. In this regard, we support Brazil 's OECD 
membership.  
4.388.   Brazil is our largest trading partner in the Latin  America and Caribbean region and we still 
have an untapped potential.  
4.389.   We are happy that our annual trade volume reached almost USD 5 billion in 2021. As agreed, 
we should aim to increase this figure to USD 10 billion.  
4.390.   Having said that, we should try to make our bilateral trade more balanced.  
4.391.   In this regard, we believe that holding the next meeting of Joint Economic Commission would 
be helpful.  
4.392.   We consider that an FTA between Türkiye and MERCOSUR will also increase our trade. We 
expect Brazil 's support in resuming FTA negotiations.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 49 - 
 
  4.393.   On the inv estment side, Türkiye 's direct investments in Brazil have reached USD 41 million 
in 2021.  
4.394.   In addition, Istanbul -São Paulo  flights of Turkish  Airlines have been operating successfully 
since 2009. Turkish  Airline 's flights have brought our countries closer together and contributed to 
the development of both our commercial relations as well as social and cultural ties.  
4.395.   We hope that we will further develop our relations in every possible field.  
4.396.   In conclusion, we would like to take this opportunity to thank our good friend 
Alexandre  Parola and wish him all the best in his new assignment, and I would also like to thank the 
Permanent Mission of Brazil to the WTO for the excellent preparation for this review, as well as their 
important contributions to WTO activiti es.  
4.397.   We wish Brazil a successful Trade Policy Review . 
JAPAN  
4.398.   Japan welcomes the distinguished delegation of Brazil, headed by the Minister Fernando 
Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs of Brazil. Japan also expresses its appreciation to the Government of Brazil and to the WTO 
Secretariat for their respective reports produced for this review, as well as to the discussant, 
H.E. Dr Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha, Ambassador of Pakistan for his insightful illustration.  
4.399.   Brazil 's economy, in this review period, was affected among others by our common challenge 
of COVID -19 pandemic, before it reported last year a good recovery, supported by its physical 
response policy targeted to the most vulnerabl e, and improvements in its terms of trade.   
4.400.   Japan commends Brazil's efforts, including during this difficult period, to improve its 
investment and business environment. We further look forward to initiatives to address issues 
including the complexities in  its tax system and improvements in infrastructure. And in those future 
efforts, we count on the Government of Brazil to continue to collaborate with, and attend the needs 
of, the private sector including foreign business operating in Brazil.  
4.401.   Japan and Bra zil are strategic global partners sharing fundamental values, and have nurtured 
a friendly relation  with history, supported by ties among our people, Japanese migrants ' descendants 
in Brazil and the Brazilian community in Japan. We have substantive, mutual ly complementary trade 
relations with a good diversity.   
4.402.   As a recent example of our extensive collaboration agenda, July this year, two countries ' 
Ministries of Environments signed a declaration for promoting bilateral environmental cooperation 
and respon se to climate change, including towards creation of market mechanism for reduction and 
sequestration of greenhouse gas emissions and further creation of investment opportunities for 
green projects. We are committed to deepen and advance our diverse economi c collaboration agenda 
of mutual interest.   
4.403.   In recent years, Brazil has made extensive efforts to advance its FTA and other external 
trade agenda, including those of MERCOSUR. We appreciate those efforts complement and 
strengthen the Multilateral Trading System. Japan also welcomes the long -waited commencement 
of Brazil's OECD accession process. We will contribute to the advancement of the process.  
4.404.   Lastly but not the least, Japan commends Brazil's active engagement in all aspects of this 
institution, inclu ding her contribution of inspirations on the WTO reform, its active participation in 
the Joint Statement Initiative projects, as well as the efforts currently underway for its accession to 
two plurilateral agreements of the WTO. This delegation would like to join the previous speakers, in 
expressing our appreciation to the contribution made and insights shared Ambassador 
Alexandr e Parola in his days in Geneva.  
4.405.   We find in Brazil a very strong partner in maintaining and strengthening the multilateral 
trading system with the WTO at its core, and look forward to further collaborating with Brazil.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 50 - 
 
  4.406.   In conclusion, we wish the delegation of Brazil a successful Trade Policy Review.  
INDONESIA  
4.407.   Indonesia warmly welcomes the Brazilian delegation, led by Minister Fernando  Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pimentel, for the eighth  Brazilian Trade Policy Review.  
4.408.   Indonesia appreciates and thanks Brazil for providing a concise and clear Government Report 
outlining important information on Brazil's trade, trade -related and investment polici es, including its 
domestic trade strategy and its participation in international trade for a and negotiations. We would 
also like to commend the WTO Secretariat for providing a Report to Members, which provides more 
insight into this review process.  
4.409.   We than k the TPRB Chair, Ambassador Ángel Villalobos of Mexico, as well as our appreciation 
to the TPR discussant, Ambassador Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha of Pakistan, for their insightful 
perspectives.  
4.410.   Today's Review is an important avenue for Indonesia in terms of trade relations with Brazil. 
From Indonesia's perspective, we see significant opportunities for Indonesia and Brazil to expand 
mutually beneficial trade with greater involvement and room for improvement, given Brazil's 
importance as a strategic market and country in the South  American region. This establishes Brazil 
as a possible export destination for Indonesia.  
4.411.   We appreciate the Brazilian Government for not obstructing Indonesian imports. However, 
Indonesia observes that our trade has been volatile over the past five years. Our total trade 
decreased in 2018 and 2019 to USD  2.95 billion and USD  2.94 billion, respectively.  
4.412.   In 2021, palm kernel oil and babassu, palm oil, natural rubber, motorcycle parts and 
accessories, as well as gear boxes an d their components dominate Indonesia's exports to Brazil. 
Meanwhile, oilcake, raw cane sugar, cotton, iron ore, and tobacco dominate Indonesia's imports 
from Brazil.  
4.413.   Collaboration between Indonesia and Brazil through the Indonesia - MERCOSUR 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IM -CEPA) negotiations is expected to stimulate 
economic development, expand the value chain, and improve the welfare of both parties, especially 
in the post -pandemic recovery context.  
4.414.   According to the Secretariat Report, Bra zil's economy has recovered from the COVID -19 
pandemic to around 4.6% in 2021. This is due to the government 's strong policy response, booming 
terms of trade, a pick -up in commodity prices, recovery in domestic and external demand, and 
robust private secto r credit growth.  
4.415.   Indonesia believes that the efforts of the Brazilian Government to improve the business 
environment have made the Brazilian economy more competitive.  
4.416.   Nevertheless, despite all of its achievements, Brazil has introduced some trade policies  and 
regulation during the period of review in which Indonesia seeks clarifications and elaboration, such 
as: (1) the implementation of the TFA, particularly in terms o f transparency and NCTF; (2) market 
competition in the telecommunications sector; and (3) Brazil's new regulation regarding 
transnational subsidy.  
4.417.   Furthermore, Indonesia hopes that the approval procedure process for fishery products can 
be carried out in a  transparent manner, with undue delays, given the high demand for and potential 
for Indonesian fishery products in the Brazilian market.  
4.418.   Indonesia has submitted a number of further written questions regarding these issues, and 
we look forward to further re sponses and clarifications from Brazil.  
4.419.   Indonesia believes that the TPR process can become a forum for overcoming these problems, 
with the hope that in the future it can increase trade and economic cooperation between Indonesia 
and Brazil.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 51 - 
 
  4.420.   Finally, I would  like to end my remarks by conveying once again my deepest appreciation to 
the Brazilian delegation for its hard work and  wishing Brazil every success in its eight  Trade Policy 
Review . 
JAMAICA  
4.421.   Jamaica joins other delegations in extending a warm welcome to the Brazilian delegation 
headed by Honourable Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy 
Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We also extend thanks to you Chair for the 
arrangements for the meeting, and commend our discu ssant, Ambassador Muhammad Mujtaba 
Piracha for the insight provided on issues emanating from the Report of the Brazilian Government. 
In this regard, we thank the Government of the Federative Republic of Brazil and the WTO Secretariat 
for their comprehensiv e reports.  
4.422.   Brazil was among the first Latin  American countries with which Jamaica established 
diplomatic relations following our independence in 1962. This year, therefore, marks 60  years of 
friendly bilateral relations. Since then, our cooperation has continued to thrive, covering a wide 
range of issues including energy, health, trade, culture, and investment. Although the bilateral trade 
balance is in the favour of Brazil, we believ e there is significant potential for future expansion of the 
economic and trade relationship between our countries.  
4.423.   Jamaica and Brazil have held several high -level exchanges and cooperate within multiple 
international fora such as the United  Nations. Jama ica also has a strong intra -regional institutional 
relationship with Brazil within the context of the Community of Latin  American and Caribbean States 
(CELAC), and the Organi zation of American States (OAS).  
4.424.   We look forward to continuing our bilateral, regi onal, and multilateral cooperation in this 
regard.  
4.425.   Brazil 's continued investments in various fields such as energy, health, defence , food and 
agriculture and trade make it a formidable player in global trade. Also, a major player in the global 
food chains,  Brazil has cemented its place in the global trading system.  
4.426.   Before the onset of the COVID -19 pandemic, Brazil registered modest growth of 1.8% and 
1.2% in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The World  Bank reported that it had one of the highest tolls 
globally i n terms of lives lost and did not escape the negative effects of the COVID -19 pandemic. In 
addition to vaccination, Brazil undertook other measures such as the adoption of fiscal, monetary, 
and regulatory measures to alleviate the impacts, including on the  country 's economy. These 
initiatives were effective in saving lives, restoring consumer and business confidence, and lowering 
unemployment.  
4.427.   We welcome the Brazilian government 's commitment to deepening its integration into the 
global economy through its i mplementation of various legislative and other policy initiatives. We 
take note that Brazil has pursued an ambitious supply -side reform agenda, including structural and 
institutional reforms. We further note positively its enactment of the Economic Freedom  Act (Law 
No. 13,874/2019), Regulatory Agencies Law, Business Environment Act, Legal Framework for 
Science, technology, and Innovation (Decree No.  9,283/2018), as well as Legal Framework for 
Startups and Innovative Entrepreneurship (Supplementary Law No.  182/2021). We support the 
government 's action to improve the regulatory framework of its financial system and enhance the 
transparency of its procurement processes at all levels of government.  
4.428.   Like Jamaica, Brazil has sought to take advantage of the benefit s of trade. Remarkably, its 
foreign trade increased from 24.3% in 2017 to 39.2% in 2021, notwithstanding the impact of the 
pandemic in 2020 and 2021. Moreover, during the period under review, Brazil experienced significant 
surpluses in goods trade, with ex ports to Asia registering the biggest increase among the 
destinations of Brazilian exports. Brazil has also undertaken steps to reduce the cost of government 
intervention on foreign trade operations; thereby, enhancing trade with its partners. We further 
commend the Government 's upgrading of its Integrated Foreign Trade System (SISCOMEX), as well 
as the launch of its National IP Strategy.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 52 - 
 
  4.429.   Indeed, Brazil has sought to broaden its network of trade partners through the negotiation 
of new, bilateral, regional,  and extra regional trade agreements. We note positively from the 
Government 's Report that it has sought to strengthen regional economic integration through regional 
trade agreements including the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR), the Latin  American 
Integ ration Association (LAIA/ALADI), and Brazil -Chile free trade agreement. We note further that 
other negotiations under M ERCOSUR  are ongoing.  
4.430.   Jamaica and Brazil place a high value on a well -functioning multilateral trading system. We 
commend the Government 's active participation in the work of the WTO. In line with its belief that 
the Organi zation is a central pillar of the global governance system, Brazil has participated in 
negotiations aimed at advancing work on several issues on the WTO 's agenda includin g agriculture, 
dispute settlement, TRIPS, fisheries subsidies, and WTO reform. We also commend the delegation 
of Brazil, particularly under the leadership of Brazil 's former Ambassador to the WTO, H .E. Alexandre 
Parola, for its active participation across WTO committees, including  the Trade Facilitation 
Committee.  
4.431.   We, however, note that several delegations have raised concerns related to Brazil 's limited 
progress on the 2021 tax reform; criteria for participation in and benefits from the Brasil Mais 
initiative; rules of procedure providing better protection to investors; measures affecting imports 
and exports; intellectual property rights among o thers. We hope that the Brazilian delegation can 
provide comprehensive responses that allays Members ' concerns, and safeguard the effective 
operations of the WTO, and the multilateral trading system.  
4.432.   Jamaica thanks the Brazilian delegation to the WTO for t heir continued constructive 
engagement in the work of the Organi zation, particularly as we move to implement the outcomes of 
the MC12 and begin preparations for the MC13.  
4.433.   In closing, Jamaica once more extends its best wishes to Brazil for a successful Trad e Policy 
Review.  
MAURITIUS  
4.434.   Mauritius would like to welcome the delegation from the Republic of Brazil led by 
H.E. Minister Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of 
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil.  
4.435.   We than k the Secretariat and the Government of Brazil for their reports. We also thank 
Ambassador Dr  Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha  of Pakistan for his insightful remarks as discussant for 
this TPR.  
4.436.   Mauritius congratulates Brazil for the successfully led general electi ons last month. We 
applaud the upholding of democratic principles.  
4.437.   Today, Brazil stands in the top tier of the largest economies in the world, the largest economy 
in Latin  America and the third largest in the Americas. We commend the progress the country h as 
continuously and made the resilience it has shown post -covid.  
4.438.   Brazil was thus able to overturn the -3.9% contraction in GDP growth in 2020 and making it 
bounce back to 4.6% in 2021.  
4.439.   Brazil has always been a significant exporter of agricultural products  to the world market 
thus contributing to overall food security.  
4.440.   We note that the country maintains relatively low levels of domestic support to its agricultural 
sector, which reflects its competitiveness and the sustainability of its practices.  
4.441.   We support Brazil 's view that it is important to reform the rules on agriculture to ensure 
fairer trade whilst bearing in mind that not all countries have the same competitive capacity e.g. 
SIDS.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 53 - 
 
  4.442.   We also appreciate Brazil 's participation in new issues includ ing the JSIs on domestic 
regulations, e -commerce, MSMEs and investment facilitation.  
4.443.   We also note with interest that in 2019, Brazil decided to begin to forgo the use of special 
and differential treatment in current and future WTO negotiations. We are curi ous to know whether 
Brazil also intends not to avail of the various GSP Schemes from which it currently benefits.  
4.444.   We also note with interest Brazil 's decision to allow the privatization of two important 
state-owned enterprises in 2022 relating to port authority and electricity and the disinvestments in 
other SOE 's dealing with storage and port authority. We see this as Brazil 's pursuit of its 
competitiveness agenda. We see this continued stepping up of competitiveness also in Brazil 's 
expansion of its n etwork of trade agreements.  
4.445.   On a bilateral, Mauritius and Brazil are geographically distant and not surprisingly bilateral 
trade is not what it could be.  
4.446.   Both our countries and producers of sugar and whilst Mauritius could never have the 
competitiveness of  an economy of scale like Brazil, we believe that our two countries could benefit 
from knowledge sharing and technology transfer.  
4.447.   Brazil will play an important role in shaping the post -pandemic global economy. We look 
forward to work with the delegation i n Geneva to help build a fair and inclusive future for the 
multilateral trade system.  
4.448.   In conclusion, Mauritius, would like to extend its compliments to Brazil for the very active 
role it plays in the WTO through the dynamic contribution made by Ambassador Alexandre P arola 
until his departure for Paris and also by the Brazilian DPR.  
4.449.   We wish Brazil a successful Trade Policy Review . 
CABO  VERDE  
4.450.   The delegation of Cabo  Verde extends a warm welcome to Minister 
Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of th e Trade Policy Department at the Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs, and to his distinguished delegation. We commend Brazil and the Secretariat for the 
reports they have presented. The delegation of Cabo  Verde would also like to commend Ambassador 
Alexandre  Parola, former Permanent Representative of Brazil, for his work at the WTO in recent 
years, and the Chargé d'Affaires on the occasion of Brazil's eighth Trade Policy Review.  
4.451.   Brazil experienced significant economic change during the review period. The 40% rise i n 
the country's foreign trade is the result of its economic and trade reforms, including improvements 
in the trading environment. We note that even as the economy was experiencing the adverse effects 
of the COVID -19 pandemic, Brazil continued to work on re covery.  
4.452.   The national cultural export plan is a significant example of Brazil's commitment to improving 
MSME participation in exports and streamlining business processes. Another is its ongoing work on 
the single window programme that allows traders and bus inesses the world over to easily access 
Brazilian markets. We also commend Brazil for cutting red tape and modernizing the regulatory 
approvals issued by the National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology, all of which helps 
to consolidate Brazil' s position in world trade.  
4.453.   Cabo Verde recognizes Brazil's outstanding level of participation at the WTO and the 
commitments it has made over the decades. Brazil remains committed to the institution and its 
commitments.  
4.454.   Also worthy of note are Brazil's effo rts to extend its partnerships through trade agreements 
beyond its own region. We welcome the reference in the reports by the delegation of Brazil and the 
Secretariat to the many bilateral cooperation initiatives between Brazil and Cabo  Verde, including 
technical regulations and air services agreements. Among these we would like to highlight 
agreements and memorandums of understanding with Cabo  Verde on customs cooperation, WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 54 - 
 
  technical regulations and air services, and the negotiations on seventh freedom traf fic rights for all 
consignments. These are very important elements of integration and trade relations.  
4.455.   To conclude, we wish Brazil a successful TPR and commend the country on its economic 
transformation and ongoing commitment to developing trade regionally  and multilaterally . 
BARBADOS  
4.456.   Barbados wishes to congratulate Brazil on the eighth  Review of its trade policies and 
practices. I would like to welcome and commend the entire delegation of Brazil, led by Fernando 
Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel , Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs . 
4.457.   We thank our discussant Dr  Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha , Ambassador and Permanent 
Representative of Pakistan to the WTO, for his analytical and insightful remarks.  
4.458.   Brazil is a key play er in global trade and a traditionally strong advocate of a robust 
multilateral trading system. We look forward to seeing this commitment continue and to Brazil 's 
continued support of the specific vulnerabilities of small island states and small vulnerable  
economies.  
4.459.   Barbados recogni zes the efforts taken by Brazil, since its last Review in 2017, to improve its 
economic fundamentals and strengthen macroeconomic resilience. We commend the Government 
of Brazil for the efforts made to address the impact of the  poly crisis on its economy and its 
commitment to increase the productivity and competitiveness of its economy.  
4.460.   During the review period, Brazil participated actively in the work at the WTO, for example, 
in all the WTO joint statement initiatives. We also recall your ongoing accession to the 
WTO Agreement  on Government Procurement (GPA) and your application to join the Agreement on 
Trade in Civil Aircraft. This is all a testament to your commitment to a rules -based multilateral 
trading system.  
4.461.   Barbados has  also taken good note of Brazil 's March  2019, announcement that it would begin 
to forgo special and differential treatment in WTO negotiations. This was an important political 
statement and we commend Brazil for however continuing to recognize the importan t role of Special 
and Differentiated Treatment for LDCs, small economies and other low income developing countries.  
4.462.   Brazil has based its trade agenda on three pillars: (i)  the promotion of trade agreements; 
(ii) the modernization of the tariff structure; a nd (iii)  the reduction of non -tariff barriers. 
Consequently, import tariffs have been reduced by 20 % across -the-board and unilaterally, and a 
significant number of items no longer require import licen ces. 
4.463.   Structural reforms have been undertaken to make the  Brazilian economy more open, 
efficient, and business -friendly. We note, for instance, that it has successfully approved new 
regulatory frameworks for sectors such as sanitation, natural gas, start -ups, telecommunications, 
railways, and ports, leveraging p rivate sector investment commitments of the order of 
USD 200 billion  over the next 10 years. There is much for other developing countries to learn from 
the Brazilian experience and I hope that Brazil will remain committed to south -south cooperation, 
includ ing around the Aid for Trade agenda.  
4.464.    At the bilateral level, Barbados and Brazil have maintained consistent trade ties over the 
years. For instance, in 2019, bilateral trade totalled USD 16.9 million with the bilateral trade balance 
in favour of Brazil, with a surplus of USD 16.7 million. There is, of course, scope for increased trade 
as we explore a diversification of trading activities between the two countries. This is an area that 
we would be very keen to move forward on especially in services, cultural exchange,  and green 
technology.  
4.465.   To conclude, Barbados acknowledges the initiatives and reforms undertaken by the 
Government of Brazil to improve the business environment for trade and investm ent to thrive and 
recogni zes its efforts to safeguard a transparent and predictable rules -based multilateral trading WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 55 - 
 
  system. We stand ready to continue working closely with Brazil across the various WTO bodies and 
processes to strengthen and enhance an equ itable and efficient multilateral trading system.  
4.466.   Barbados again congratulates the entire delegation of Brazil for their engagement and we 
wish them a successful Trade Policy Review.  
ANGOLA  
4.467.   The delegation of the Republic of Angola would like to warmly congratulate Brazil, a sister 
country, on its eighth Trade Policy Review, public presentation and discussion . The Official Report 
clearly stresses Brazil 's increased integration into the interna tional trading system as a pivotal factor 
in fostering productivity, economic competitiveness and growth.  
4.468.   In fact, since 2019, Brazil has been pursuing a trade agenda based on three associated 
pillars: (i)  intensification of the trade agreements network; (ii) modernization of the MERCOSUR 
tariff structure; and (iii)  trade facilitation. To this fact, one can observe that Brazil has removed part 
of its import licen ces, reformed its contributions to food security, and has, accordingly, eliminated 
several trad e distortions, namely in the agricultural sector, which are positive contributions for 
enhancing fair trade opportunities for developing countries, especially the LDC.  
4.469.   However, and despite promising GDP growth from 2017, Brazil's social fabric, economy, a nd 
trade were affected dramatically by the outbreak of the COVID -19 pandemic, which impacted the 
country's economic recovery and financial stabilization process. As in most countries worldwide, 
Brazil adopted several state -sponsored social measures to prov ide financial assistance to the 
population, companies, and vulnerable communities. The cost of these measures has amounted to 
approximately 8.5% of GDP, which led to a fiscal primary deficit equivalent to 10% of GDP, 
increasing public debt to 88.59% in Dec ember  2020. Regardless of these undesirable figures, Angola 
acknowledges the sound economic recovery of Brazil registered since early 2022, namely through 
an increase in employment and an improvement in business and consumer confidence, as well as a 
renewe d compromise to support the multilateral trading system and to resume an active role in the 
WTO.  
4.470.   The Angola delegation commends the exhaustive 200 -page Report from the WTO Secretariat 
that provides a thorough review of Brazil 's economic environment in the  last five years, trade and 
investment regimes, trade policies and measures by sectors, including detailed reviews of 
agriculture, forestry, fisheries, mining, energy, to name a few.  
4.471.   Angola and Brazil are much more than friendly countries or trade partner s. Millions of 
Angolans, from the early 16th century, were sent to Brazil as slaves to work in the sugar plantations, 
thus creating a deeply rooted relationship. Angola will not forget the role that Brazil played in the 
first years of its independence, helping Angola rebuild an economy devastated by the colonial war.  
4.472.   Accordingly, our trade relations were increasing in the last 25  years at a 6.5% annual rate. 
However, due to the pandemic, it registered a downturn in 2020, where Brazilian exp orts to Angola 
reached the amount of USD  350 million , and Angolan exports to Brazil were reduced to a mere 
USD 179 million . Therefore, there is an enormous set of trade, investments, and cooperation 
opportunities to be renewed, and Angola is confident and hopeful that the democratic election of 
President Lula  da Silva, a long -term friend of Angola, will reopen a new era of bilateral trade 
development, multidisciplinary cooperation and reinvestment in our country 's economic priorities, 
on reindustrialization , agri-business , logistics, technologies, and education.  
4.473.   Dear Chair, discussant, and Head of the Brazilian delegation, we are thankful for your 
attention, and we strongly recommend Brazil's Trade Policy Review with the utmost positive 
appreciation.  
PARAGUA Y 
4.474.   Paraguay extends a warm welcome to the delegation of Brazil on the occasion of this eighth 
Trade Policy Review, and especially to Minister Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of 
the Trade Policy Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  We would also like to thank you for WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 56 - 
 
  conducting this review, Ambassador  Piracha of Pakistan for his excellent presentation and the 
Secretariat for its comprehensive report.  
4.475.   Paraguay shares Brazil's status of founding member and participant in one of the mo st 
influential trade blocs in the region. Like Brazil, Paraguay's trade policy is closely tied to its 
participation in MERCOSUR and in that connection, 31  years after it was founded, we can say that 
MERCOSUR has become a platform for joint international ou treach.  
4.476.   As the Secretariat report rightly notes, the COVID -19 pandemic made the review period 
challenging. However the sectors of production associated with exportation, especially agriculture 
and processed agriculture, were the top performers.  
4.477.   We too have  an interest in strengthening this sector and the sector of manufactures of 
industrial origin because of their socio -economic impact and importance to MERCOSUR, and in 
pursuing efforts to secure greater market access for our products in multilateral, regio nal and 
bilateral negotiations.  
4.478.   With respect to common items on the MERCOSUR agenda we note the Common External 
Tariff review process and the heavy emphasis on external relations.  
4.479.   Where the intra -MERCOSUR agenda is concerned, Paraguay's pro tempore preside ncy of 
MERCOSUR in the first half of this year oversaw the agreement of a 10% reduction in the Common 
External Tariff following intense negotiations.  
4.480.   In external matters we have concluded a state -of-the-art agreement with Singapore, our 
first with a south -east Asian country, and are at the legal review stage prior to signature at the 
earliest opportunity.  
4.481.   In this context, Paraguay reiterates its position that any negotiations must be consistent 
with the letter and spirit of our bloc's founding texts.  
4.482.   We exp ect to continue to strengthen our trade ties with other Members through MERCOSUR. 
We must acknowledge the important work done by the bloc in seeking out and opening up new 
markets and point to the progress made in extra -regional negotiations. Some time ago  we concluded 
negotiations for a Partnership Agreement with the European Union and EFTA and we anticipate taking 
the steps necessary for signature in the near future. Our bloc's external agenda also includes 
negotiations with Canada, the Republic of Korea and Lebanon, together with exploratory talks with 
other important countries and groups of countries.  
4.483.   We must also highlight the bloc's efforts to overcome asymmetries and establish the 
MERCOSUR Structural Convergence Fund (FOCEM), which has financed projec ts promoting structural 
convergence, competitiveness development, social cohesion and the strengthening of the 
institutional framework among the States party, with a USD  1,548  million project pipeline to finance 
49 projects.  
4.484.   Within the WTO, we would emphas ize joint work with Brazil on various issues, especially in 
relation to agriculture within the framework of the Cairns Group, and the pursuit of greater market 
access through agricultural reform in accordance with Article  20 of the Agreement on Agriculture . 
Paraguay would also like to commend Brazil on its leadership in respect of proposals concerning 
market access, PSH and TESSD, and in turn the country's contributions to discussions on other 
issues such as e -commerce, the facilitation of investment for de velopment, economic empowerment 
of women and MSMEs. Our participation in all these initiatives stems from their importance for our 
response to the challenges of the 21st  century.  
4.485.   I would also like to take this opportunity to reaffirm Paraguay's openness to  continue to work 
on necessary WTO reform so as to ensure a multilateral trading system that is based on clear, 
predictable and transparent rules and that reaffirms special and differential treatment for landlocked 
developing country Members.  
4.486.   On behalf of my country, I once again commend the individuals responsible for conducting 
this review and the Brazilian delegation, especially the representatives of the Permanent Mission of WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 57 - 
 
  Brazil in Geneva, for their unfailingly active participation and c ontribution to the work of this 
Organization.  
PANAM A 
4.487.   The Permanent Mission of Panama to the WTO commends 
H.E. Mr Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Head of Delegation, and the Brazilian delegation 
in its entirety for their outstanding preparation for this eighth Trade Policy Review. We also commend 
the entire team at the Permanent Mission of Brazil in Geneva, which until very recently was led by 
Ambassador Alexandre  Parola, to whom we wish every success with his new responsibilities.  
4.488.   We also extend our  thanks to the discussant in this review, Ambassador 
Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha of Pakistan, for his excellent analysis that provided a clear picture of 
Brazil's current trade policies. We would also like to commend the Secretariat and the Brazilian 
authorit ies for their work on their respective reports.  
4.489.   Brazil is a country of great importance to Panama and the world. Brazil is the world's fourth 
largest exporter of grain, supplying 800  million people worldwide; it therefore has a very important 
role to play in global food security.  
4.490.   During the review period, Brazil, like many countries, was buffeted by the fallout of the 
COVID -19 pandemic, which severely affected its economy.  
4.491.   However, in 2021, progress in vaccination and the relaxation of containment measures 
began to have positive economic effects. In 2022, the Brazilian economy is already showing signs 
of a steady recovery, with some increases and improvements in confidence among businesses and 
consumers. We hope that the forecasts will t urn out to be correct.  
4.492.    In terms of bilateral trade, Panama's trade balance with Brazil has traditionally been in 
deficit. In 2018, it was USD  -235 million. More recently, in 2020, the COVID -19 pandemic led to a 
narrowing of the trade balance. Panama's imp orts from Brazil included machine parts, medicines, 
wooden furniture, and agricultural products. Exports from Panama fell by 75% from USD  8 million 
in 2018 to USD  2 million in 2020.  
4.493.   We hope that the improvement in the health situations in our countries wil l lead to trade 
returning to, or indeed exceeding, pre -pandemic levels.  
4.494.   The leading exports to Brazil were tobacco, aluminium scrap and fish.  
4.495.   We note the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2018 between the Association of Soya 
and Maize Producers of Mato  Grosso, Brazil, (Aprosoja) and the Panama Canal. It is important for 
global food security. Bulk transit through the Panama Canal accounted for around 22.2% of all 
transits of the Canal in the financial year 2018.  
4.496.   Panama shares Brazil's aim of supporting S MEs and startups, and fostering innovative 
entrepreneurship. We were therefore pleased to learn about Complementary Law No.  182/2021.  
4.497.   The Law has many objectives: it reduces red tape for smaller businesses, increases legal 
protection for investors in start ups, establishes measures to increase the venture capital available 
for startups and institutes a public procurement procedure for the acquisition of innovative solutions. 
Panama will be closely monitoring the outcomes of this Law.  
4.498.   It should also be noted that our countries constantly engage in bilateral cooperation in 
various areas of mutual interest such as energy, the environment, education and agriculture, as 
exemplified by the first Meeting of the Working Group on Technical Cooperation between the 
Governments of Panama and Brazil, which closed with six technical cooperation projects intended to 
build on the installed technical capacity in Panamanian institutions.  
4.499.   We would like to commend Brazil for its active participation in the multilateral trading sy stem 
and in the WTO.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 58 - 
 
  NEPAL  
4.500.   My delegation welcomes the delegation of Brazil led by H.E.  Minister Fernando Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 
Nepal commends him for the insightful highli ghts of Brazil 's eight Trade Policy Review at the 
beginning of the meeting. I appreciate H.E.  Dr Piracha, Ambassador of Pakistan for his 
comprehensive deliberation as discussant of this review meeting.  
4.501.   My delegation commends the Government of Brazil and t he WTO Secretariat for valuable 
reports. These reports have shed light on understanding the major initiatives and progress in trade 
and investment regimes in Brazil during the review period.  
4.502.   My delegation considers that the periodic review mechanism of trade policies of Members as 
a key element of the multilateral trading system embodied in the WTO, contributing to a more 
transparent and comprehensive understanding of Members' trade policies a nd regulatory 
frameworks.  
4.503.   I am pleased to take good note of 4.6% GDP growth in 2021 after an efficient recovery from 
the COVID -19 as a result of timely adopted support measures, booming terms of trade, and a pick -up 
in commodity prices, among others. Government 's initiatives in reforming trade and investment 
regimes especially focusing on boosting productivity, potential growth, and living standards, among 
others, remained praiseworthy during the review period.  
4.504.   I commend Brazil's openness to international  trade and its integration into the world 
economy which can be reflected in continuous rise of trade to GDP ratio from 24.3% in 2017 to 
39.2% in 2021.  
4.505.   The reform initiatives taken by the Government of Brazil to improve the business climate via 
regulatory,  institutional such as creation of the Direct Investments Ombudsman, and procedural 
changes are highly appreciated. The measures adopted to simplify regulations, increase 
transparency, and encourage trade were also praiseworthy.  
4.506.   My delegation highly comme nds Brazil 's continued commitment to and active participation  
in the multilateral trading system and the WTO functioning. Hosting the eleventh Ministerial 
Conference of the WTO in Buenos  Aires is an example of its commitment.  
4.507.   I take good note of Brazil 's trade agenda based on three pillars: (i)  intensification of the 
trade agreements network; (ii)  modernization of the MERCOSUR tariff structure; and (iii)  trade 
facilitation.  
4.508.   My delegation is of the view that the future development perspectives laid down in  the 
Brazil 's Report such as focus on fiscal sustainability and structural reforms, pro -market 
microeconomic reforms, fiscal consolidation, improvement of legal frameworks and improvement of 
the overall business environment will contribute to achieving the  targeted socio -economic objective 
of the country.  
4.509.   Let me turn to the bilateral front. Nepal and Brazil have been enjoying cordial relation since 
long back and this relation has been further strengthened after the establishment of diplomatic 
relations in 1976 and other regular bilateral activities since then.  Both the countries have their 
residential embassies in each other 's capitals. Notwithstanding the geographical distance, both the 
countries hold similar views to promote the interests of developing co untries in order to achieve the 
objective of a just and equitable world including at the WTO functioning for safeguarding the 
multilateralism with fair and inclusive global trade.  
4.510.   Agreements on technical cooperation, visa exemption for holders of diplomat ic and official 
passports and the establishment of Bilateral Consultation Mechanism are some instruments for 
strengthening mutual cooperation.  
4.511.   Furthermore, regular exchange of high -level visits has further cemented our friendship.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 59 - 
 
  4.512.   As Brazil is said to have the world 's largest hydropower potentials, Nepal may benefit from 
the experience and expertise acquired by Brazil in harnessing water resources.  
4.513.   My delegation is of the view that both the countries can explore the opportunities for 
cooperation in the  areas of mutual interest such as agriculture and agro -business, joint venture in 
industries and hydropower, trade, tourism and transfer of technology, among others.  
4.514.   Based on the primary data Nepal imported goods worth of NPR 7.4 billion in the year 2021 
from Brazil while it exported to Brazil worth of just NPR 51 million in the same year. Such trade data 
reveals wide trade gaps in Nepal 's bilateral trade with Brazil. However, this can be an opportunity 
of further collaboration and cooperation focusing on r educing this trade gap by further exploring and 
exploiting the potential of mutual benefits as mentioned above.  
4.515.   Nepal looks forward to strengthening its relationship with Brazil in the days ahead. My 
delegation wishes a successful Trade Policy Review of Brazil. 
HONDURAS  
4.516.   Honduras extends the warmest of welcomes to the delegation of Brazil led by His Excellency, 
Mr Fernando  Meirelles  de Azevedo  Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department at the Ministry 
of Foreign Affairs; we extend our appreciation to our colleagues and friends at the Mission of Brazil 
in Geneva for their excellent work and our thanks to them for their statement and report.  
4.517.   Our thanks go also to you, Chair, for your leadership and guidance, to the discussant 
Dr Muhammad  Mujtaba  Piracha for his valuable contribution, and to the WTO Secretariat for their 
excellent work.  
4.518.   Honduras is pleased to participate in this exercise in transparency and is glad to note that 
the reports set out important indicators for Brazil, highlighti ng its position as the largest economy 
in Latin America and the Caribbean, the third largest economy in the Americas and the twelfth largest 
economy in the world in terms of GDP.  
4.519.   We also note that Brazil is regarded as home to the world's fifth largest dig ital population 
and that the 2021 WIPO Global Innovation Index ranks the country fifty -seventh out of 
132 economies.  
4.520.   Brazil continued to hold a significant position in the international mining industry as the 
world's second -largest producer of iron ore and  manganese, and in 2020 was the world's leading 
producer of niobium, and one of the top producers of bauxite and tin, as well as the world's biggest 
exporter of sugar, orange juice, coffee, poultry meat, beef, and soybeans.  
4.521.   We note the introduction, during  the review period, of trade and trade -related structural 
reforms focusing on several areas including regulatory and institutional issues, privatization, and the 
labour market, in order to boost productivity, potential growth, and living standards.  
4.522.   We note , in particular, Brazil's leniency programme, which has been under ongoing 
development and is now one of the most important aspects in cartel enforcement, driving interest 
from other jurisdictions around the world, including ours.  
4.523.   We note also that in 2020  Brazil published its first Time Release Study (TRS) carried out in 
accordance with the World Customs Organization's methodology, based on close to 300,000  import 
transactions (by air, sea and road) and found that, on average, it took 7.4  days from the goo ds' 
arrival until their effective exit from the area under customs control, and the average release times 
for consignments arriving by air, sea and road were 5.8  days, 9.7  days and 2.3  days, respectively  
4.524.   Regarding our bilateral relationship, Brazil and Hon duras established diplomatic relations in 
1906 based on brotherly ties and the promotion and defence of cooperation for development in the 
best interests of our people.  
4.525.   In 2021, bilateral trade flows rose to USD  157 million, with Brazil in surplus: Brazili an 
imports totalled USD  147 million whereas exports from Honduras amounted to USD  10 million.  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 60 - 
 
  4.526.   Brazil has a large portfolio of bilateral and trilateral projects with Honduras, and at the 
Seventh Meeting of the Brazil -Honduras Working Group on Technical Coop eration held in Tegucigalpa 
in June  2019, new initiatives were agreed, including on matters relating to public service training 
and the training of firefighters, irrigation and vegetable production, health inspections, and the 
development of the cold food chain.  
4.527.   Our authorities have expressed their interest in increasing cooperation with regard to 
agriculture and livestock, and, in November  2020, Brazil made a donation of USD  25,000 to us in 
emergency support following the passage of hurricanes ETA and IOTA ; we acknowledge and thank 
our Brazilian brothers for this assistance.  
4.528.   Honduras agrees with the strategic pillars that Brazil presented concerning the need to 
improve the business climate and reduce infrastructure gaps to improve competitiveness; promote 
national and international integration to increase production capacity; build a more efficient public 
sector that promotes fiscal sustainability; and reduce social inequality and lack of opportunity by 
improving the efficiency of public policies in everyone 's interests.  
4.529.   Lastly, Honduras acknowledges Brazil's contributions, achievements and active participation 
in the WTO and we wish it every success in the presentation of its eighth Trade Policy Review.  
BANGLADESH  
4.530.   At the outset, the Bangladesh delegation welcomes H.E.  Minister Fernando Meirelles 
de Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and 
thanks for his introductory presentation at the eighth  TPR. We also thank Ambassador 
H.E. Dr Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha  of Pakistan for his insightful discussions and thoughtful 
comments. Our sincere appreciation goes to the Government of Brazil and the WTO Secretariat for 
the comprehensive reports and diligent works.  
4.531.   Trade has long been an important part of  Brazilian economy and also an important connector. 
This has been reinforced during the global COVID -19 pandemic. This eighth  Trade Policy Review of 
Brazil covers a period of great international economic instability. As an open economy with strong 
economic  ties with the international community, Brazil has also been hit by the adverse effects of 
COVID -19 and other shocks.  
4.532.   It is encouraging to see that prudent macro -economic measures adopted by the country 
have resulted in impressive economic growth and rema rkable improvement in almost all ind exes. 
Since the last TPR, relatively strong economic fundamentals and solid buffers to external shocks, 
have helped the country maintain macroeconomic stability. The strong outward orientation of the 
Brazilian economy ha s been one of the pillars of growth for many years. Brazil has sought to expand 
its integration in international trade to increase the productivity and competitiveness of its economy 
and guarantee sustainable growth, and has been pursuing a trade agenda ba sed on three  pillars 
such as: (i)  intensification of the trade agreements network; (ii)  modernization of the MERCOSUR 
tariff structure; and (iii)  trade facilitation since 2019, though it is true that many challenges persist, 
significant progress has been m ade in several areas.  
4.533.   As a firm supporter of the multilateral trading system Brazil remains actively engaged at the 
WTO. It took leadership roles in various WTO bodies. Bangladesh welcomes Brazil's trade policy 
priority on multilateral, non -discriminatory rules complemented by a goal of continuous expansion 
and deepening of trade relations through regional and bilateral approaches. It attaches high 
importance to reducing gaps in the level of development between nations, to promoting the further 
integration of developing and least developed countries into the global economy, and to the need to 
make economic development more sustainable.  
4.534.   As one of the largest economy and MERCOSUR and BRIC S partner, Brazil also an important 
trading partners of Bangladesh. Bila teral trade between two countries in 2021 was USD  1.67 billion 
but it is heavily tilted towards Brazil. Brazil exported USD 1.53 billion  to Bangladesh and the main 
products are raw sugar, raw cotton, and soybeans.  During the last 25  years the exports of Brazil to 
Bangladesh have increased at an annualized rate of 11.1. Bangladesh exported USD 132 million  to 
Brazil and the main products were knit sweaters, non -knit men's shirts, and non -knit men's suits 
and increased at an annualized r ate of 9.08%. There are ample opportunities to import Bangladeshi WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 61 - 
 
  ready made garments , leather and both traditional and non -traditional SME products and invites 
Brazil to consider those for the betterment of the both.  
4.535.   To conclude, we wish the delegation of  Brazil a productive and successful TPR. My delegation 
will continue to work closely with the Brazil delegations, led by Ambassador 
H.E. Mr Alexandre  Parola, to strengthen the multilateral trading system while we strive to enhance 
our bilateral trade.  
KENYA 
4.536.   We join the other delegates in conveying warm welcome to the delegation of Brazil led by 
Minister Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel, the Director of the Trade Policy Department of the 
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for the eighth Trade Policy Review.  We also commend the discussant, 
Ambassador Piracha of Pakistan for his insightful intervention.  
4.537.   This review comes when the world is recovering from the devastating impact of the 
COVID -19 pandemic, an episode that was characterized by trade and travel disr uptions, which had 
adverse effects on all economies. Brazil 's adoption of fiscal, monetary, and regulatory stimulus 
measures to protect the incomes of families and companies and to safeguard the liquidity of the 
economy helped to mitigate the effect of the  pandemic. Consequently, the economy was able to 
gradually recover and record a 4.6% GDP growth in 2021, after a decrease of 3.9% in GDP in 2020.  
4.538.   We take note of the significant increase in Brazil 's foreign trade from USD  379 billion in 2017 
to USD  532 billion in 2021, a 40% leap. Consequently, Brazil registered an upward trend in its share 
of global exports, moving from 1.2% in 2017 to 1.3% in 2021, with manufacturing accounting 
for 56% of the exports while agriculture, forestry and fishing accounted for 20% of Brazil 's exports 
in 2021.  
4.539.   We are glad to underscore Brazil 's unwavering commitment to multilateral trade. It has and 
continues to play an active role at the WTO in the efforts to strengthen and support a well -functioning 
multilateral trading system and reaffirm its relevance as a central pillar of the global economic 
governance. The WTO ought to be more responsive to the contemporary issues of the international 
economic order, as well as to its Members ' interes ts and concerns. We commend Brazil 's active 
participation in the ongoing discussions to revitalize the WTO and address the challenges that it 
currently faces to ensure its proper functioning.  
4.540.   In addition, Brazil has adopted measures aimed at strengthening  it to adequately address 
the prevailing challenges. These include fiscal sustainability and structural reforms necessary for a 
sustained economic recovery, improvement of the social safety net, the sustainable fiscal framework 
and the competitiveness of t he economy. Its quest to enhance its footprint in international trade and 
increase its productivity in order to guarantee sustainable growth is laudable. The three -pillar trade 
agenda that Brazil has recently been pursuing, anchored on (i)  intensification of trade agreements 
network; (ii)  modernization of the MERCOSUR tariff structure; and (iii)  trade facilitation; will 
certainly go a long way supporting Brazil 's endeavours.  
4.541.   Among national economic endeavours, the government 's strong commitment to regional 
trade is clear. We recognize the government 's determination to expand trade ties in the region and 
beyond through existing arrangements such as MERCOSUR, as well as new agreements with different 
trading partners. These initiatives will further inc rease opportunities for the people of the region and 
strengthen economic integration.  
4.542.   Kenya enjoys cordial political and trade relations with Brazil and to buttress this relationship, 
Kenya opened a Commercial Office in Brasilia in October this year. This  office will serve to promote 
Kenya 's trade and commercial interests, and will enhance the economic relations, not just with Brazil, 
but also with the rest of the South  American countries. Kenya is keen to leverage its relations with 
Brazil and increase it s market share. Kenya 's exports to Brazil increased by 110.27%, from 
USD 224,000 in 2020 to USD  471,000 in 2021.  
4.543.   In conclusion, Kenya underscores Brazil 's commitment to improve the economic and trading 
environment in the country, the region and beyond, in cluding the multilateral trading system. The WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 62 - 
 
  policies and interventions that it has adopted, have positive impact on business, citizens, and 
productivity, and will enhance development.  
PERU1 
4.544.   Peru extends a warm welcome to His Excellency Mr  Fernando  Meirel les de Azevedo  Pimentel, 
Director of the Trade Policy Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, and to his 
honourable delegation, and we join other delegations in extending our thanks to them for the report 
on Brazil's macroeconomic performa nce and trade policy regime on the occasion of this eighth Trade 
Policy Review. We also extend our thanks to the Secretariat for the report distributed to Members 
and to Ambassador Piracha for his perceptive, detailed comments as discussant.  
4.545.   Echoing what o ther Members said last Wednesday, the delegation of Peru appreciates Brazil's 
return to economic growth during the review period. The factors spurring that growth included a 
timely support policy, recovery in domestic demand and robust private sector credi t growth.  
4.546.   The array of measures to simplify regulations, increase transparency, and encourage trade 
is remarkable, as are the measures to promote the use of several tools related to good regulatory 
practices, including the requirement to conduct Regulatory  Impact Analyses/Assessments – an 
endeavour in which Peru is also engaged. We also welcome the fact that Brazil has continued to 
streamline its foreign trade formalities and gradually implement its Single Window Programme. In 
this connection, Peru shares B razil's aim of strengthening the transparent, inclusive, rules -based 
multilateral trading system.  
4.547.   There is room for Brazil to continue to improve, as there is for us all, and challenges lie 
ahead, especially in relation to R+D and integration in the world economy, fiscal imbalances and 
inflationary pressures, which are challenges across Latin America.  
4.548.   As for bilateral trade relations, Brazil is our fourth largest trading partner in the world and 
our leading trading partner in our region. Although trade betw een us fell in 2020 because of the 
pandemic, it exceeded USD  4,275  million in 2021, a record figure.  
4.549.   In 2021, Peruvian exports to Brazil grew by 47% as a result of greater sales of minerals, 
notably shipments of silver, calcium phosphate, anthracite, zinc and copper. Meanwhile, in the same 
year, our imports from Brazil rose by 69% through larger purchases of crude oil, tractors, vehicles, 
plastic, wood and paper.  
4.550.   Brazil is Peru's leading supplier of crude oil, and ranks second behind China for vehicles. By 
contrast, Peru is Brazil's fifth largest supplier of clothing. However, it is our view that there are 
further opportunities for mutual trade in agriculture and textiles. For example, Peru can see 
opportunities in the Brazilian market for chocolate, oranges  and dried grapes, and for products in 
other sectors such as steel bars and potassium chloride.  
4.551.   Moving now to the multilateral system, I do not want to miss the opportunity to commend 
Brazil for its active role and work in this forum, and sincerely trust that this review has acted as a 
framework for Brazil to renew its commitment to the stability and soundness of the multilateral 
trading system.  
4.552.   Having made these important points, it only remains for me to thank the Brazilian delegation 
for this exercise, and to wish it a successful Trade Policy Review . 
EGYPT  
4.553.   On behalf of the Egyptian delegation, allow me, at the outset, to join previous speakers in 
extending a very warm welcome to the delegation of Brazil.  
 
1 The following statements were delivered during the second day of the meeting . WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 63 - 
 
  4.554.   We would like to express our appre ciation to the Government of Brazil as well as the WTO 
Secretariat for their comprehensive reports. We also thank H.E. Ambassador Dr  Muhammad Mujtaba 
Piracha  of Pakistan, who assumed the role of the discussant.  
4.555.   We commend Brazil for the efforts made during  the review period to improve their 
macroeconomic conditions and trade policies, modernize their legal and regulatory frameworks and 
to achieve resilient and inclusive recovery from the pandemic. All these efforts have paved the way 
to a conducive environm ent to attract private investments in many important sectors in the country. 
Furthermore, Brazil is an important and active Member of WTO and has a significant role in its work.  
4.556.   Egypt is pleased to take part in this Trade Policy Review, as we enjoy cordial  and deep 
relations with Brazil, including on the economic front. Brazil is an important trade partner to Egypt 
and we recogni zed an increase in trade flows between the two countries since the entry into force 
of the free trade agreement between the M ERCOS UR and Egypt, in 2017. Such agreement, 
compounded with scheduled liberalization of trade goods, could have potential to further boost trade 
flows between the two countries. According to the statistics of 2021, bilateral trade between Egypt 
and Brazil reach ed USD 2.7 billion and Egypt 's imports from Brazil reached USD 2.2 billion . 
4.557.   However, Egypt believes that there is room for enhancing economic relations with Brazil, 
especially in trade, as we have some concerns as follows:  
• The extension of anti -dumping du ties imposed since 2014 on Egyptian exports of colourless 
float flat glass to Brazil (HS  code 7005.29), for a period of five years, starting 21  May 2021. 
These duties, accounted for at USD 185 per ton ne, is negatively affecting our exports of this 
product to Brazil. We would like to request Brazil to review its decision on the extension of 
these anti -dumping duties on Egyptian exports of colourless float flat glass, with a view to 
eliminating them.  
• The time consumed in registering the Egyptian agricultural products, due to the bureaucratic 
procedures and approvals needed from both the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the Ministry 
of Agriculture, which may take years, hinders the market access of these products to the 
Brazilian market, thus represents an obst acle to trade flows between the two countries. 
Furthermore, only limited access for the Egyptian agricultural exports was allowed to the 
Brazilian market, namely citrus (which its registration process took about six years), despite 
the fact that the free trade agreement between the M ERCOSUR  and Egypt exempt most of 
the agricultural exports items from customs duties. Therefore, we would like to ask Brazil to 
take the necessary measures to facilitate access of the Egyptian agricultural products to its 
markets.  
4.558.   Egypt is actively engaging with Brazil on these concerns, both on the bilateral level and 
MERCOSUR  level. We very much appreciate the free trade agreement that we have with M ERCOSUR , 
according to which the Egyptian exports receive preferential trea tment.  
4.559.   Finally, Egypt would like to wish the delegation of Brazil a fruitful Trade Policy Review . 
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 64 - 
 
  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF BRAZIL  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  It is a pleasure to resume this meeting after the fruitful last couple of days, both in Geneva 
and Doha.  
5.2.  I want to thank you, Mr  Chair, and the Secretariat once again for the organization of this 
meeting, as well as the delegations that have formulated questions for Brazil, including follow -up 
questions, which we will reply in the coming week s. 
5.3.  I especially want to thank all those Members who made statements on Wednesday and today. 
We took careful note of all of them. Taken as a whole, they were a rather positive evaluation of 
bilateral relations, of Brazil's engagement in the WTO and of our t rade policy during the period under 
review.  
5.4.  I have spoken with Ambassador  Parola and he is also very grateful for your kind words. 
Ambassador Parola 's enthusiasm and sterling track record during the years he has served in Geneva, 
always with the invaluable  support of Minister  Braz and his whole team, build upon the legacy of 
many others before him, and give a clear testimony of Brazil historic and firm commitment to 
strengthening of the multilateral trading system.  
5.5.  My delegation was particularly encouraged by the many expressions of confidence in Brazil 's 
economic policies and reform agenda, and for the acknowledgement that we were able to pursue 
this agenda during challenging times for the world economy, and Brazil.  
5.6.  As several members have highlighted, the  current global challenges include the pressing need 
to make our economies more sustainable. As I have mentioned in my opening statement, Brazil is 
ready to contribute to the common cause of global sustainability and global food security, building 
upon the  strong credentials of our sustainable agriculture practices and our clean energy matrix, 
with almost 50% of renewables. We are convinced the WTO has a role to play in this discussion, 
because international trade is an inevitable part of the solution.  
5.7.  In Brazil's view, international trade is key to the pursuit of sustainable development in its three 
inseparable dimensions: social, economic , and environmental. That is precisely why it will never be 
possible to truly achieve sustainable development if WTO Members resort to protectionism and 
unilateralism. Unfortunately, we see worrying trends pointing to just that.  
5.8.  This also relates to another recurrent subject in your statements, which was the WTO reform. 
The ministerial mandate clearly states that the reform process shall address development issues. As 
a developing country, Brazil will continue to take part in all WTO reform discussions never losing 
sight of the development dimension and our shared goal for sustainable development.  
5.9.  For Brazil, Sustainab ility, Food Security, and Development are interconnected, and advancing 
these objectives necessarily involves the reform of agricultural trade, as mandated by Article  20 of 
the Agreement on Agriculture. As I have mentioned before, Brazil will remain commit ted to a reform 
process encompassing trade liberalization in agriculture, food and nutrition security. It is worth 
noting that during the whole period under review in this TPR, Brazil has provided very low levels of 
Amber  Box support, particularly market -price support, and has remained strongly committed to less 
distortive forms of support to agricultural production.  
5.10.   Another aspect of the WTO reform that I did not have time to mention on Wednesday, but 
several of you did, was transparency and notifications.  As many of you have noted, Brazil has a very 
positive record on this subject. A key area which is essential for the proper assessment of Members' 
commitments, and which we see as an indispensable part of WTO reform.  
5.11.   Many Members also highlighted trade fac ilitation. As I said, we have eliminated more than 
700,000 automatic and non -automatic import licensing requirements. And our single window has 
been completely implemented for the new export process, reducing export time from 13 to 5 days.  
5.12.   The new import process is being implemented in phases. Last week, new features were added 
to the system, especially regarding risk management and inspection of agricultural and medical and WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 65 - 
 
  pharmaceutical products. As of today, the new import process covers the equivalent  of 40% of total 
imports in Brazil, and time to import has already been reduced from 17 to 8 days.  
5.13.   Another important subject raised by Members on Wednesday was intellectual property. Brazil 
appreciates the recognition of the reduction in our patent "backl og" by more than half and of our 
accession to new international IP instruments.  
5.14.   Brazil recognizes in IP a driver for innovation, investment, improved business environment 
and economic development. Throughout the review period, the Brazilian Government has  
strengthened our IP infrastructure, updating our legal framework and reinforcing our institutional 
capabilities.  
5.15.   I also want to take the opportunity to thank those Members who have expressed support for 
Brazil 's accession to the OECD, which in our view d emonstrate both the confidence that you place in 
our economy and our democracy.  
5.16.   I will address a few topics that were raised in a less positive tone. Many Members mentioned 
the complexity of the tax system in Brazil. As you can imagine, this is not a simpl e matter.  
5.17.   There are different bills in the National Congress that aim to unify and eliminate various 
indirect taxes, in addition to introducing features which should reduce the complexity of our tax 
system. It is expected that Brazil will make progress on  a Tax Reform in the coming years, but this 
reform might be implemented gradually.  
5.18.   I would also like to clarify a topic related to tariffs that was mentioned in many written 
questions and in some interventions by delegations. Brazil has promoted a horizon tal tariff reduction 
in the last years and has also been reducing systematically tariff lines over the review period. Brazil 
simple average MFN tariff declined by 2.2  percentage points relative to 2017, from 11 .6% to 9 .4%. 
However, as noted by Members, the  simple average rate for dutiable lines has increased marginally. 
This is the result of a statistical effect of cutting tariff lines previously charged 2% to 0%, on more 
than 2 ,000 tariff lines. I stress that there has not been any tariff elevation in prac tice.  
5.19.   Together with the trade agreements, the tariff modernization in MERCOSUR and all the 
structural reforms, Brazil 's economic landscape has changed significantly during the period under 
review. Our commitment to the WTO, however, has remained steadfast  and will continue to do so 
in the years to come.   
5.20.   We are grateful for the interest with which Members participated in our TPR and, most 
importantly, my delegation is encouraged by the support from many of you to our national team in 
the World Cup. See yo u in the finals!  
DISCUSSANT  
5.21.   Good morning and welcome back to this second day of the Trade Policy Review of Brazil.  
5.22.   The active participation of Members at the first day of Brazil is a testimony of the importance 
of this review mechanism as well as the importance of Brazil as a global player.  
5.23.   We all listened in to what the Members had to say, so I am not going to repeat all that. 
Generally, Members were appreciative of the reforms carried out during the period under review and 
took interest in furthering  their understanding of the Government policies during the review period 
and the contribution of these to Brazil's objective for sustainable growth.  
5.24.   Members' questions were on the reforms and the measures to improve trade and business 
environment specially to facilitate trade, foster competitiveness, reduce cost of doing business, 
address the structural reforms to increase productivity and overall to i mprove Brazil's 
macroeconomic  indicators.  
5.25.   This review has also given Members the opportunity to convey some of their concerns on the 
various policies and measures that Brazil has already in place in addition to those implemented WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 66 - 
 
  during the period under rev iew with the objective to strengthen the trade relations and to mutually 
benefit from trade.  
5.26.   I wish to thank Brazil in providing in a timely manner, all the necessary clarifications in the 
areas of its trade policies for Members to better understand the ra tionale and the way how Brazil 
developed its policies to meet its general socio -economic policy objectives. As a discussant here and 
generally as a development practitioner I have always put forward my view that trade is a means to 
an end. The end for any government is the general welfare, prosperity,  and happiness of its people.  
5.27.   During the period under review, almost half of it spent under an adverse global context, Brazil 
made efforts to stick to its reform agenda. It articulated policies to address some legacy challenges: 
foster an opportune business environment and started to address the structural complexity of 
Government regulations, taxation system, direct state involvement in economic activities, lack of 
competitiveness, weak infrastructure, and prod uctivity both in the services and manufacturing 
sectors.  
5.28.   It is clear that Brazil has tried to strike a balance between its growth targets, the well -being 
of its population and the sustainability of its environment.  
5.29.   Given the size and the structure of its e conomy, the impacts of the reforms and actions 
undertaken during the period under review were not yet fully reflected in the macro indicators as 
the pandemic was an additional challenge. The recovery post pandemic will certainly see further 
growth pending further implementation of the reforms already made.  
5.30.   Brazil's process of accession to the OECD is a significant step forward in the reforms it would 
have to undertake to address its economic challenges.  
5.31.   Promising signs in the way forward such as the tax ref orms proposals being debated at 
congressional level. The actions under the National Investment Plan (PNI) have started to take place 
in view of promoting and facilitating investment.  
5.32.   This trade policy review is also a learning opportunity and a tool for Br azil to inform and fine 
tune its efforts to reform at the opportune time. Members have highlighted some areas where further 
improvements would be required. The review is not simply a desk research, inputs by Members 
based on their experience of trading wit h the country under review is an exercise in real time. I am 
sure the Brazilian team, especially from capital have lots of feedback and suggestions from this 
forum that they will be taking back with them. Pakistan found it very helpful that the TRP nowaday s 
allows virtual participation, so we got high officials from almost 15  Ministries and government 
organizations attending online from the capital. This exposes many more people in the capital to the 
WTO and its Membership and gives them a first-hand experi ence of hearing what trading partners 
have to say about their policies and procedures. This is perhaps the only  positive impact of COVID . 
5.33.   As we are all aware, trade and investment policies are one of the many policy tools 
Government deploy to achieve their  overarching social and economic objectives of public policy. 
There is a need to factor in the political and social context to better understand the directions the 
Government took to formulate those policy options.  
5.34.   I sincerely wish to thank Members for the ir contributions to this review exercise.  
5.35.   In the end, I wish Brazil every success in all its initiatives and efforts, and I wholeheartedly 
congratulate H.E.  Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department 
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and his team from capital and the Brazilian Mission in Geneva for 
this TPR which was an excellent opportunity of information and views.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.36.   I would like to address  my thanks to the Minister for responding this morning to the range of 
issues raised by Members during day one.  I also want to acknowledge and appreciate the work of 
the Brazilian delegation, we recognize how much work  goes into these TPRs and we really appreciate 
the hard work that you put in responding to our written questions and to making this a successful WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 67 - 
 
  process , and hope that you have learn t something as well . We have submitted a few follow -up 
questions this morning and we look forward to r eceiving responses . 
5.37.   I just want to comment briefly on what we understood to be the overwhelmingly positive tone 
of this TPR, and I think it is a testament to Brazil's engagement with partners here in Geneva and 
also in Brasilia to engage in a serious dialo gue to talk through trade issues as they arise. We greatly 
appreciate our productive bilateral dialog ue with Brasilia on a broad range of issues and we look 
forward to deepening our cooperation with Brazil here in Geneva . Particularly , through initiatives 
such as the SPS work plan on new and emerging challenges facing the world's agricultural producers 
through meaningful work to address food insecurity and improve our collective understanding of the 
global challenges fac ing farmers , on resetting the WTO dis cussion on development , so that we can 
update our dialog ue here to better link our trade policies with economic growth priorities , and we 
would urge all WTO M embers to support  Brazil's practical proposal to include private sector voices 
in the thematic ses sions of the trade facilitation  committee and look forward to moving that 
significant proposal forward with Members . 
5.38.   In conclusion, I would like to , once again , thank Brazil for its leadership here in Geneva and 
to signal our delegation's ongoing support and cooperation as we work together to reform and 
rejuvenate the Organization . Congratulations on a successful TPR. 
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.39.   On behalf of the E uropean  Union, I would first like to thank the delegation of Brazil for 
comprehensive replies to our advance questions and for the information provided today and 
Wednesday about the recent developments and future plans of Brazil 's economic and trade policies , 
as well as their responses provided to the issues raised. We do not have any follow -up questions.   
5.40.   The fact that Brazil is the largest economy of Latin  America and an important trading partner 
for many WTO Members was clearly reflected by the numerous statements a nd the keen interest 
shown during  this review. The EU is no exception – being Brazil 's second trading partner and the 
largest foreign investor in Brazil shows the strength and depth of our bilateral trade and investment 
relationship.  
5.41.   The EU acknowledges th e efforts Brazil has made to cope with the consequences of the 
COVID -19 pandemic, implementing extraordinary fiscal assistance and monetary and regulatory 
measures. We warmly welcome Brazil 's reforms to facilitate trade and investment, improve the 
business  environment and public procurement and IPR enforcement, and the efforts of further 
integration in the world economy as well as the OECD accession. We hope that Brazil will continue 
these efforts, while pursuing the goal of social cohesion, fiscal stabilit y and further opening of the 
economy and trade.  
5.42.   As many others, the EU appreciates Brazil 's strong support for the multilateral trading system, 
in particular the constructive approach in this Organization. We are confident that our joint 
commitment to mul tilateralism will continued.  
5.43.   The EU would like to express its support to Brazil 's interest to join the WTO Government 
Procurement Agreement. The accession of Brazil to the GPA would be beneficial for global trade and 
would give a strong signal to the inte rnational community and in particular to the WTO during 
challenging times.  
5.44.   We also welcome Brazil 's interest in regional and bilateral negotiations and the EU remains 
committed to the EU -MERCOSUR agreement. We look forward to our continued dialogue on 
multilateral, regional and bilateral level.  
5.45.   Finally, the EU would like to thank Brazil for the constructive exchange of views during this 
review and congratulates Brazil's delegation on successful eight Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 68 - 
 
  CHINA  
5.46.   China would like to again express our thanks to the delegation of Brazil for its constructive 
engagement in this TPR. We gained a better understanding of Brazil through the delegation 's 
excellent presentations, timely and detailed replies to all our written questions as well as the 
comments of a large number of Brazilian trading partners.  
5.47.   China also thanks the discussant, Ambassador Dr  Muhammad Mujtaba P iracha  for his 
informative introduction of and valuable comments on Brazil. And, as always, China appreciates the 
Secretariat  for its exhaustive Report.  
5.48.   China values the longstanding strategic partnership with Brazil, especially the increasingly 
close trade and investment relations. We do believe that our friendly cooperative relations are bound 
to face great and historical oppo rtunities.  
5.49.   China stands ready and willing to strengthen communication and cooperation with Brazil under 
the framework of WTO and BRICS. We appreciate the new Brazilian government 's commitment to 
establish partnerships in Brazil 's interests. To this end, Ch ina sincerely hopes that Brazil, being a 
founding member of MERCOSUR, can play a positive and constructive role in considerations of 
negotiations between MERCOSUR and China.  
5.50.   China is pleased to see that the new Brazilian Government will devote to build Bra zil into a 
country with credibility, predictability and stability, and this will enhance international investors ' 
confidence in Brazil. We wish that investment in Brazil will be further expanded.  
5.51.   As two major developing countries and key emerging economies , Brazil and China share broad 
common interests and responsibilities.  
5.52.   We noticed that reducing hunger and fighting extreme poverty will be the top priority of the 
new Brazilian Government. China has resolved the problem of absolute poverty in the county, a nd 
won the largest battle against poverty in human history. We are ready to share our practices in 
poverty alleviation with Brazil.  
5.53.   China admires Brazilian 's greenest energy matrix in the world and the government 's effort to 
support reaching the country's climate goals in line with its COP26 commitments. We commend the 
government 's goal of achieving sustainable development by balancing production and biodiversity 
protection. China has acted on the idea that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable ass ets. 
We will continue to pursue a model of sound development featuring improved production, higher 
living standard and healthy ecosystems. China is eager to learn from and exchange views with Brazil 
on ecological conservation and environmental protection.  
5.54.   In closing, we congratulate Brazil on another successful TPR . 
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 69 - 
 
  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The eighth  Trade Policy Review of Brazil has offered us a good opportunity to deepen our 
understanding of recent developments in, and challenges to, its t rade, economic, and investment 
policies. Since its seventh  TPR in 2017, Brazil's initiatives to maintain its participation in the 
Multilateral Trading System and take advantage of the opportunities it offers were greatly 
appreciated. Indeed, the 958  advance written questions submitted by 38  Members and the 
51 delegations that took the floor during the first and second day underline the importance attached 
by Members to Brazil's trade and investment policies and practices.  
6.2.  I would like to thank Brazil' s delegation, led by Minister Fernando Meirelles de  Azevedo 
Pimentel, Director of the Trade Policy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for its active 
participation in this exercise. I would also like to thank our discussant H.E.  Ambassador 
Dr Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the WTO, for his insightful 
remarks, and all the delegations that took the floor for their valuable contributions to this review.  
6.3.  Members commended Brazil for the improvements of its economic fundamentals and 
macroeconomic resilience as well as for maintaining its level of openness of trade and investment 
regimes despite the economic turmoil caused by the COVID -19 pandemic. Members were pleased to 
see rebounding growth in 2021 as a result of ti mely implemented support measures. Brazil was 
praised for its ambitious supply -side trade -related structural reforms to boost productivity, potential 
growth, and living standards in several areas. At the same time, several Members encouraged 
effective and timely implementation of a significant tax reform as well as further reduction of 
regulatory burden on businesses and to continue strengthening measures to improve governance 
practices and enhance transparency. Brazil was also invited to address a number o f environmental 
challenges including rising deforestation, as well as to continue creating an investment climate 
favourable to the further development of renewable energy. Some Members noted the rise of the 
share of foreign trade to GDP notwithstanding the  impact of the pandemic in 2020 and 2021. Several 
Members saw untapped potential for further enhancing bilateral trade in goods and services and 
increasing investment flows in many areas. Diversification of foreign trade remained essential to 
overcome temp orary disruptions of supply chains and to further improve Brazil 's international 
competitiveness.  
6.4.  Brazil was praised for its continued commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system, 
as well as its leadership, constructive and valuable role at t he WTO, including its contribution in 
securing successful outcomes in MC12. Brazil 's recognition to forgo special and differential treatment 
in future WTO negotiations was commended. Members appreciated its active participation in the 
various Joint Stateme nt Initiatives (JSIs), including E -Commerce, Investment Facilitation for 
Development, MSMEs, and Services Domestic Regulation, as well as the Trade and Environmental 
Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD), the Multi Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Mechanism 
and WTO reform discussions. Members welcomed its on -going accession to the Government 
Procurement Agreement (GPA) noting that Brazil was the first Latin  American Member seeking to do 
so, and encouraged the expeditious completion of the pending pr ocedures. Brazil 's recent application 
to join the Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft was also commended. Members noted Brazil 's positive 
overall notification and transparency record and encouraged to submit outstanding notifications with 
respect to impor t licensing procedures and quantitative restrictions as well as to ensure the 
submission of TBT and SPS notifications at least 60  days in advance of the measure being adopted. 
Members welcomed the progress made so far in Brazil 's OECD accession process. Br azil was 
encouraged to play an active role in inter alia expanding MERCOSUR RTAs network with major 
trading partners outside the region.  
6.5.  Members noted that since the last TPR the overall simple average MFN tariff rate had declined 
but the rate on dutiable items had increased. Despite a high tariff binding coverage, they encouraged 
to close large tariff binding overhangs. Brazil had progressively sought to reduce non -tariff barriers 
to trade through simplifying regulations, increasing transparency,  and encou raging the use of digital 
tools and services. Concern was expressed over persisting burdensome, costly,  and often redundant 
import procedures involving a disproportionately large number of documents. Suggestions were 
made to further reduce the number of no n-automatic import licences. Tax discrimination was another 
area of concern and Brazil was requested to address perceived tax rate distortions between imported 
and domestic products. Support was expressed for action to improve the regulatory framework of 
its financial system and enhance the transparency of its procurement processes at all levels of 
government. Members welcomed positive developments in the area of intellectual property WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 70 - 
 
  (IP) rights, including joining the Madrid Protocol and taking steps to ac cede to the Hague Agreement, 
as well as its action for reducing backlogs in processing patent applications and expanding the scope 
of its Patent Prosecution Highway program me. Brazil was urged to join certain other IP treaties.  
6.6.  At the sectoral level, sever al Members welcomed Brazil's active role in the agriculture trade 
negotiations as a member of the Cairns Group. Members acknowledged Brazil's importance as an 
agriculture powerhouse for a number of trading partners and its contribution for meeting the glob al 
food security challenge. Members noted the significance of Brazil's exports of mining products and 
commended the new regulatory framework for natural gas. Members commended Brazil's ambitious 
renewable energy plans and encouraged further regulatory refo rms to foster investments in the 
energy sector.  
6.7.  Concerning services, Brazil was urged to further open up its markets to foreign enterprises, in 
particular in the financial, insurance and the legal professions activities. Members praised Brazil's 
openness in the telecommunications sector. The removal of maritime cargo sharing agreements and 
government cargo restrictions as well as the reform of the domestic maritime transport regulations 
were appreciated. The privatizations and concessions undertak en in the administration of airports, 
maritime ports, and energy distribution were also commended.  
6.8.  The above points are some of the key issues that had emerged in our discussion. I hope that 
the Brazilian delegation will consider and further reflect on the se issues and on the many constructive 
comments, both broad and detailed, that it has received during this review. Members look forward 
to receiving the answers from Brazil to any outstanding and follow -up questions within one month, 
at which point the eighth Trade Policy Review of Brazil will be successfully concluded.  
  WT/TPR/M/432 • Brazil  
 
- 71 - 
 
  7  ADOPTION OF TPR B'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2022  
CHAIRPERSON  
7.1.  I would now like to ask delegations to consider the TPRB's Annual Report for 202 2, which was 
initially distributed on 2 0 October  2022 in document WT/TPR/W/ 214. We had set a deadline of 
31 October  2022 for comments . Eight delegations submitted written comments (six before the 
deadline, and two after the deadline). A revision of the Annual Report was issued on 
4 November  2022 in document W T/TPR/W/214/Rev.1, in track changes mode.  
7.2.  A new revised version of the of the draft Annual Report will be distributed in document 
WT/TPR/W/214/Rev.2. I suggest that Members be given one week, that is until Friday 
2 December  2022, to consider this new version, after which time the Report will be considered 
adopted and distributed as WTO document WT/TPR/488.   
7.3.  With this, I declare the meeting closed. I thank you all for your participation and please note 
that the next meeting of the Trade Policy Review Bo dy will be held on 5 and 7 December  2022, when 
the TPRB will discuss the TPR of Seychelles . 
 
__________  