O texto a seguir fala sobre a reforma tributária no Brasil. O texto foi feito para o nível C1/C2.
Preparation
Why are taxes important for a country's economy and public services?
How can tax reforms impact small businesses and consumers?
What are some common challenges countries face when implementing tax reforms?
Reading
Aiming to simplify the tax system, Goods and Services Tax (IBS or IVA) replaces various taxes like PIS, Cofins, IPI, ICMS, and ISS. Key goals include simplification, transparency, and economic stimulation. The first phase, passed by the Chamber of Deputies in July 2023, focuses on consumption taxes, with expectations to conclude voting by October 2023.
The reform's main change is replacing five taxes, constituting 38% of 2021's collection, with the CBS, collected by the Union. This aims to create a more favorable business environment. The current tax burden in 2022 was 33.71%, the highest since 2010. The reform proposes a dual VAT system, replacing existing taxes with IBS and a selective tax on products impacting health or the environment. Key points include a new IBS, dual nature of IBS, selective tax, varied rates, and exceptions for certain sectors.
The transition period runs from 2029 to 2032, with gradual changes in tax collection. The reform's importance lies in reducing business costs, improving competitiveness, and bringing legal certainty. It's expected to boost economic growth, transparency, and legal security, addressing the high and complex tax burden, often cited as a major hindrance to Brazil's industrial competitiveness.
The industry sector views the reform positively, anticipating significant economic growth and benefits for the population. The reform is a priority for industry, seen as crucial for reindustrialization and addressing the 'Brazil Cost' of high taxation affecting business efficiency.
Recent additions to the reform include local taxes on primary and semi-processed products, expanded tax immunity for religious entities, reduced rates for specific sectors, and various other measures to support different industries and urban development.
