Minister of Finance highlights that tax evasion in just one sector reaches R$ 28 billion and states that the text, sent for presidential sanction, will protect fair competition
The Minister of Finance, commented this Wednesday (10) on the approval of the bill that tightens the rules against the so-called “contumacious debtor”. Speaking to the press, Haddad explained that the measure aims to combat structured illegal practices, citing as an example the fuel sector, often associated with irregular distribution and money laundering.
According to the minister, the text was approved on a final basis, as it did not undergo wording changes, and now goes to President Luiz Inácio da Silva for sanction. Haddad classified the approval as “good news for serious taxpayers” who seek to maintain their activities legally, but face unfair competition.
Business closures and revenue impact
Asked about the consequences for companies covered by the new law, Haddad stated that the legislation allows the closure of the activities of companies that use non-payment of taxes as a business strategy. “If it is proven, according to the law, that the debtor is stubborn, that is, he is harming the entire society through illegal actions, you can end up closing the company”, he declared.
The minister highlighted that the Federal Revenue already has on its radar who these debtors are, but lacked legal instruments to act due to loopholes in previous legislation. He estimated that tax evasion involves “tens of billions of reais”. In just one specific sector, the impact would be R$28 billion, mainly affecting the states’ ICMS collection — with emphasis on and — and the Union’s IPI.
Economic and political agendas
During the interview, Haddad also discussed the progress of . He said the goal is to have the operating system ready on January 1st for a one-year testing period.
Regarding the 2025 budget, the minister conditioned the closing of the accounts on the vote on a complementary law that deals with linear cuts in expenses, as provided for in Constitutional Amendment 109.
When asked about the approval of criminal benefits for those involved in the acts of January 8, Haddad refused to give an opinion, stating that he would leave the matter to “another minister”.
*Report produced with the help of AI
