Last Thursday, March 12, the Federal Government announced a package of measures aimed at reducing the impact of fluctuations in international oil prices on the price of diesel fuel in Brazil, in response to the strong volatility resulting from the recent conflicts in the Middle East. The measures are intended to ease inflationary pressures and protect strategic sectors of the national economy, especially those dependent on road freight transportation.

Among the measures implemented, the most notable is the reduction of PIS and COFINS tax rates to zero until May 31, 2026, in addition to the granting of an economic subsidy to diesel producers and importers. This subsidy, in the amount of R$0.32 per liter, will be granted to agents that qualify before the ANP, while remaining subject to oversight by the regulatory agency to ensure that the price charged is equal to or lower than the regional reference price defined by the agency itself.

The package also provides for an increase in the tax burden levied on exported crude oil and diesel fuel, a measure intended to discourage the outflow of these products from the country and thereby protect the supply of the domestic market.

The impact of these changes is particularly relevant for companies operating in transportation, logistics, and retail, since diesel represents a significant share of operating costs in road freight transportation. Therefore, any reduction in fuel prices tends to positively affect cost structures and the competitiveness of economic activities directly dependent on this input.

Additionally, the Federal Government expressed the expectation that the States and the Federal District will adopt a similar approach by revisiting taxes under their jurisdiction — especially ICMS — in order to expand the reach of the reductions and contribute to lowering diesel prices throughout the country.

In light of this new regulatory and tax scenario, it is recommended that potentially affected companies review and update their supply and logistics contracts. Those directly involved in the sale and distribution of fuels should seek specialized legal counsel, whether to ensure full use of the benefits established or to safeguard their rights in the face of the new regulatory requirements imposed by the federal government.