Brazil has become one of the most important overseas markets for Chinese automotive brands. BYD, GWM, Chery, GAC and other Chinese manufacturers are expanding their presence in Brazil, while demand for electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and technology-focused SUVs continues to grow.

At the same time, Brazil’s automotive import policy is changing rapidly.

Since July 1, 2026, the import tariff for fully assembled electrified vehicles and SKD vehicles has reached 35% under the government’s scheduled tariff increase. However, Brazil has also introduced a new US$463 million zero-tariff quota for CKD and SKD electric and hybrid vehicles from July 1 to December 31, 2026.

For companies planning to import Chinese cars to Brazil, understanding the difference between CBU, SKD and CKD is now more important than ever.

This guide explains the latest 2026 Brazilian import tariff changes, the CKD/SKD quota, import compliance requirements and practical opportunities for Chinese car exporters and Brazilian importers.

Brazil’s Chinese Car Market Is Growing

Chinese automotive brands have expanded rapidly in Brazil over the past several years.

BYD and GWM have established local operations, while other Chinese brands are increasing their dealer networks and introducing electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and gasoline-powered models.

This creates opportunities not only for major manufacturers but also for:

• Brazilian vehicle distributors
• Independent automotive importers
• Dealership groups
• Fleet operators
• CKD/SKD assembly partners
• Chinese car exporters
• Automotive investment companies

For international buyers, Brazil is particularly interesting because consumer demand is moving toward affordable EVs, PHEVs, SUVs and vehicles with advanced driver-assistance and connected-car technologies.

However, importing a Chinese car into Brazil requires careful planning because tariff rates, licensing requirements and local homologation can significantly affect the final landed cost.

Brazil’s 2026 Chinese Car Import Tariff Update

CBU Import Tariff Reaches 35%

Brazil has implemented a gradual increase in import tariffs for electrified vehicles under its industrial and mobility policy framework.

As of July 1, 2026, the scheduled tariff rate for the relevant categories of fully assembled electrified vehicles imported outside applicable quotas has reached 35%.

The progression can be summarized as follows:

Effective Date	Hybrid	Plug-in Hybrid	Electric Vehicle
Early 2024	12%	12%	10%
July 2024	25%	20%	18%
July 2025	30%	28%	25%
July 2026	35%	35%	35%

The 2026 policy represents the final stage of the scheduled increase for these categories.

For a Brazilian importer purchasing a fully assembled Chinese vehicle, the 35% import tax can have a significant impact on the landed cost before other Brazilian taxes, logistics expenses and local costs are considered.

Brazilian importers should therefore calculate the complete landed cost rather than comparing the Chinese FOB price directly with the Brazilian retail price.

The 2026 Opportunity: CKD and SKD Zero-Tariff Quota

Although the tariff for CBU and SKD vehicles has increased, Brazil has simultaneously introduced an important opportunity for companies involved in local assembly.

Brazil’s Executive Management Committee of the Chamber of Foreign Trade (Gecex/Camex) approved additional import quotas with a zero import tariff for qualifying CKD and SKD electrified vehicles.

The quota applies from:

July 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026

The total quota value is approximately:

US$463 million

The quota applies to qualifying:

• CKD vehicles
• SKD vehicles
• Electric vehicles
• Hybrid vehicles
• Plug-in hybrid vehicles

Importantly, fully assembled CBU vehicles do not receive this quota.

According to Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Foreign Trade and Services (MDIC), the new quota was established for the same overall quota volumes used during the previous quota period.

CKD vs. SKD vs. CBU: What Is the Difference?

Understanding these three formats is essential when planning Chinese car exports to Brazil.

CBU — Completely Built-Up

The vehicle is completely assembled in China and exported as a finished vehicle.

For example:

Chinese factory → Brazilian port → Customs → Brazilian market

The major disadvantage in 2026 is the applicable 35% import tariff outside any special treatment or exemption.

CBU is generally the simplest logistics model, but it can become less competitive because of Brazil’s import tax structure.

SKD — Semi-Knocked Down

The vehicle is partially assembled before export.

Certain components or assemblies are installed in Brazil, allowing the importer or local manufacturing partner to complete the vehicle.

A typical structure could be:

Chinese factory → SKD kits → Brazil → Local assembly → Distribution

For qualifying SKD imports within the 2026 quota, the import tariff can be 0%.

However, once the applicable quota is exhausted, the tariff treatment changes.

According to Brazil’s 2026 tariff schedule, SKD vehicles outside the quota are subject to the scheduled 35% rate from July 2026.

CKD — Completely Knocked Down

CKD represents a higher level of disassembly.

The vehicle is exported as a kit of components and assembled locally.

A typical model is:

Chinese manufacturer → CKD components → Brazil → Local assembly → Brazilian market

For companies planning a long-term presence in Brazil, CKD can offer greater opportunities for localization and industrial cooperation.

Under the 2026 schedule, qualifying CKD imports within the quota can receive zero import tariff.

Outside the quota, CKD continues to benefit from a 14% tariff through December 31, 2026, before the scheduled increase to 35% on January 1, 2027.

Why the 2026 CKD/SKD Quota Matters for Chinese Car Exporters

The US$463 million quota creates a potentially attractive short-term opportunity for Chinese automotive manufacturers and Brazilian partners.

Instead of exporting a fully assembled vehicle and paying the applicable CBU tariff, companies with suitable local assembly structures may explore CKD or SKD operations.

This can be particularly relevant for:

• Chinese EV manufacturers
• PHEV manufacturers
• Chinese SUV brands
• Brazilian vehicle distributors
• Local assembly companies
• Automotive investment groups
• Fleet and mobility companies

The opportunity is especially relevant for companies considering long-term localization in Brazil rather than simple CBU vehicle exports.

However, the quota is limited and subject to Brazil’s quota allocation and import procedures. Companies should confirm eligibility and available quota before making commercial commitments.

Brazil’s official Siscomex system lists the 2026 CKD/SKD electrified vehicle tariff quota and related regulations.

Can You Still Import Chinese Cars to Brazil as CBU?

Yes.

The 2026 tariff changes do not mean that Chinese cars cannot be imported as CBU.

The main issue is economics.

A Brazilian importer purchasing a fully assembled Chinese vehicle must consider:

• Import duty
• IPI
• ICMS
• PIS/COFINS where applicable
• Freight
• Insurance
• Port charges
• Customs brokerage
• Local certification and compliance
• Registration costs
• Dealer and distribution costs

Therefore, a vehicle that appears inexpensive based on its Chinese FOB price may have a substantially higher landed cost in Brazil.

For this reason, Brazilian importers should calculate a complete landed-cost model before selecting a vehicle.

Importing Chinese Cars Independently to Brazil

Independent vehicle imports are possible, but they should not be treated as a simple process of buying a vehicle in China and shipping it to Brazil.

Brazil has environmental, safety, customs and vehicle-registration requirements that must be addressed before the vehicle can legally enter and operate in the Brazilian market.

IBAMA Environmental Compliance

IBAMA plays an important role in the importation of vehicles because imported vehicles are subject to Brazilian environmental requirements concerning emissions and noise.

IBAMA states that importers of vehicles subject to emissions and noise controls must obtain the relevant import authorization procedures.

For new light vehicles, the LCVM — License for the Use of Vehicle or Engine Configuration — is an important part of the compliance process.

IBAMA specifically states that LCVM procedures apply to new light vehicles imported for both personal use and commercial purposes.

Therefore, an overseas exporter should not assume that a vehicle can be imported simply because it complies with regulations in China, Europe or another country.

Brazilian requirements must be checked separately.

Brazilian Vehicle Homologation and Registration

Vehicle registration also requires compliance with Brazilian traffic and vehicle regulations.

For new imported vehicles, environmental approval and vehicle conformity requirements must be addressed before the vehicle can be registered and legally operated.

For this reason, Brazilian importers should work with qualified local professionals to verify:

• Vehicle homologation
• Environmental requirements
• Safety requirements
• VIN and vehicle identification
• Import licensing
• Customs classification
• Registration requirements
• Applicable Brazilian taxes

IBAMA confirms that the LCVM is required before registration of new light vehicles in Brazil.

How Much Does It Cost to Import a Chinese Car to Brazil?

There is no single percentage that can accurately describe the total cost of importing a Chinese vehicle into Brazil.

The final cost depends on:

1. Vehicle FOB price
2. International freight
3. Insurance
4. Import duty
5. IPI
6. ICMS
7. PIS/COFINS where applicable
8. Port and terminal charges
9. Customs brokerage
10. Certification and homologation
11. Local transportation
12. Registration and distribution costs

Therefore, using a simple formula such as “the final Brazilian price will be twice the Chinese price” is not sufficiently accurate.

Instead, professional importers should calculate the vehicle’s total landed cost in Brazil based on the exact NCM classification, vehicle type, import structure and destination state.

What Chinese Cars Have the Best Potential in Brazil?

For Chinese exporters evaluating the Brazilian market, several categories deserve particular attention.

1. Affordable Electric Cars

Affordable EVs can appeal to consumers looking for lower operating costs and modern technology.

However, the importer must carefully calculate the effect of Brazil’s import tariffs and local taxes.

2. Plug-in Hybrid SUVs

PHEV SUVs can offer a combination of electric driving capability and long-distance flexibility.

This segment may be particularly attractive in markets where charging infrastructure is still developing.

3. Compact and Mid-Size SUVs

SUVs remain an important segment in Brazil.

Chinese manufacturers can compete through:

• Competitive pricing
• Modern styling
• Large infotainment systems
• ADAS features
• Hybrid powertrains
• EV technology

4. Technology-Focused Vehicles

Chinese manufacturers have developed strong capabilities in:

• Advanced driver-assistance systems
• Intelligent cockpits
• Large central displays
• Connected-car technology
• Fast charging
• PHEV systems
• High-voltage EV platforms

These technologies can help Chinese vehicles differentiate themselves in Brazil.

CBU vs. SKD vs. CKD: Which Is Better for Brazil?

Import Model	Assembly	2026 Tariff Opportunity	Best For
CBU	China	35% outside special treatment	Smaller-volume imports
SKD	Partial assembly in Brazil	0% within qualifying quota	Market expansion
CKD	Local assembly	0% within qualifying quota	Long-term localization

The right model depends on investment scale, annual volume, local assembly capability and the importer’s long-term strategy.

For a small dealer, CBU may remain the simplest solution.

For a manufacturer or large distributor planning substantial annual volume, SKD or CKD may offer a more competitive long-term structure.

How AUTO IN CHINA Can Help Import Chinese Cars to Brazil

AUTO IN CHINA is a professional China car exporter specializing in the sourcing and international export of Chinese vehicles.

We work with overseas dealers, distributors, fleet operators and automotive businesses looking to source vehicles from China.

Our services can include:

• Chinese vehicle sourcing
• New car procurement
• EV and PHEV sourcing
• Chinese SUV sourcing
• Factory and supplier coordination
• Export documentation
• Customs declaration
• International shipping
• FOB quotations
• CKD/SKD project coordination
• Vehicle configuration verification

For Brazilian customers, we can help evaluate whether a project is more suitable for CBU, SKD or CKD export based on the vehicle, expected volume and business model.

For CKD/SKD projects, local Brazilian homologation, quota eligibility and customs compliance must be confirmed with qualified Brazilian professionals and the relevant authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Importing Chinese Cars to Brazil

What is the import tariff for Chinese electric cars in Brazil in 2026?

From July 1, 2026, the scheduled import tariff for relevant fully assembled electrified vehicles outside applicable quotas is 35%.

Can Chinese cars still be imported as CBU?

Yes. CBU imports remain possible, but the applicable 35% import tariff and other Brazilian taxes and costs must be included in the landed-cost calculation.

Can Chinese electric cars enter Brazil with zero import tariff?

Potentially, yes, for qualifying CKD and SKD electrified vehicles imported within the 2026 tariff quota.

The quota totals approximately US$463 million and applies from July 1 through December 31, 2026.

Does the zero-tariff quota apply to CBU vehicles?

No. The 2026 additional quota is specifically for qualifying CKD and SKD vehicles. Brazil’s Gecex decision states that CBU vehicles do not receive this quota.

What happens to CKD tariffs after 2026?

Under the current schedule, CKD imports outside the zero-tariff quota remain at 14% through December 31, 2026, with the scheduled rate increasing to 35% from January 1, 2027.

What happens to SKD imports after the quota is exhausted?

Qualifying SKD imports outside the zero-tariff quota are subject to the applicable 35% tariff from July 2026 under the current schedule.

Do imported Chinese cars need IBAMA approval?

Vehicles subject to Brazil’s environmental controls require the applicable IBAMA licensing and compliance procedures. New light vehicles generally require an LCVM or applicable exemption before registration.

Is importing a Chinese car to Brazil profitable?

It can be, but profitability depends on the vehicle’s FOB price, Brazilian import taxes, logistics, certification, local distribution costs and sales price.

For larger-volume projects, CKD/SKD assembly and local partnerships may provide a more competitive structure than conventional CBU imports, particularly when applicable quota benefits are available.

Final Thoughts: Is 2026 a Good Time to Import Chinese Cars to Brazil?

Brazil remains a significant opportunity for Chinese automotive exporters, but the business model is changing.

The 35% tariff for fully assembled electrified vehicles makes traditional CBU imports more challenging from a cost perspective. At the same time, the US$463 million CKD/SKD zero-tariff quota running from July through December 2026 creates a potentially valuable opportunity for companies prepared to establish local assembly operations.

For Chinese manufacturers and large Brazilian distributors, the key question is no longer simply:

“How much does a Chinese car cost?”

It is:

“Which import and localization model provides the best total landed cost and long-term market strategy?”

Companies considering the Brazilian market should evaluate CBU, SKD and CKD options, confirm tariff classification and quota eligibility, and complete Brazilian homologation and environmental compliance before placing large orders.

For professional sourcing and export support, AUTO IN CHINA can assist overseas buyers in sourcing Chinese vehicles and developing suitable export solutions for the Brazilian market.

Contact AUTO IN CHINA to discuss Chinese EV, PHEV, SUV and CKD/SKD sourcing opportunities for Brazil.