EN 
PT_BR 
Amidst the instability in international markets caused by the war in Iran, the federal government issued, on Tuesday (24), Provisional Measure 1,345, which creates credit lines of R$ 15 billion within the Sovereign Brazil Plan, under the management of National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES). On the same day, the law establishing the Brazilian Official Export Credit System was also enacted.
The funds will be allocated to exporting companies and sectors that are strategic to the trade balance, especially those affected by geopolitical tensions, such as the conflict in the Middle East and the tariffs imposed by the United States.
According to the vice president and minister of Development, Industry, Trade and Services, Geraldo AlckminThe measure aims to guarantee the competitiveness of Brazilian companies and preserve jobs.
The credit lines may utilize different sources, such as the financial surplus of the Export Guarantee Fund (FGE) and resources from funds linked to the Ministry of Finance, calculated up to the end of 2025. Exporting companies of industrial goods, suppliers, and sectors relevant to foreign trade will have access.
According to the president of BNDES, Aloizio MercadanteThe initiative covers sectors that continue to be impacted by high tariffs, such as steelmaking, metallurgy, and the automotive sector, as well as areas like pharmaceuticals, machinery and equipment, and electronics. The program also considers indirect impacts, such as the reduction in fertilizer supply due to international conflicts.
The financing can be used for working capital, purchase of machinery, expansion of production capacity, investments in innovation, and adaptation of processes. Credit terms, such as deadlines and charges, will be defined by... National Monetary Council (CMN), while the access criteria will be the responsibility of the Ministries of Finance and Development.
The new law that creates the Brazilian Official Export Credit System updates the rules for export insurance and financing and expands the scope of BNDES's activities. Among the measures is the creation of a single portal to provide transparency to operations and the annual presentation of reports to the Senate.
The legislation also maintains the rule that prevents new financing to countries in default with Brazil and now encourages operations focused on the green economy and decarbonization. Another change is the extension of the commercial risk coverage period for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, which increases from 180 to up to 750 days in the pre-shipment phase.
Furthermore, the law establishes guidelines for the operation of the Guarantee Fund for Foreign Trade Operations (FGCE), aimed at reducing risks in export operations.
