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A rural producer reported an alleged case of tying involving rural credit operations at a Banco do Brasil branch in the municipality. According to reports, after the approval and release of resources, customers were being pressured to take out insurance considered high-cost.
According to the whistleblower, the office responsible for preparing rural credit projects forwards the documentation for analysis and, after the financing was released, some producers were advised to purchase insurance linked to the operation. They also state that, if they refused to be hired, they could face difficulties or obstacles in the process. The practice known as tying occurs when the acquisition of a product or service is conditioned on the purchase of another item, which is prohibited by the Consumer Protection Code as it violates the right to free choice.
The field worker reported concern, as he depends on credit to pay for and invest in agricultural production. According to him, the requirement for additional products would increase the costs of operations.
When contacted by the report, Banco do Brasil sent a note informing that it “cares for the quality of operations and good relationships with all customers, always guiding responsible credit management”. The institution highlighted that it works to strengthen agribusiness, serving everyone from Pronaf beneficiaries to medium and large rural producers, including in Sena Madureira.
The bank highlighted that it has partnerships with authorized technical assistance, which receive training to act in accordance with rural credit standards and current legislation. He also added that, depending on the credit line and the guarantees presented, certain operations may require insurance and/or regulatory guarantees.
Finally, Banco do Brasil stated that it “does not condone any type of action or sale that does not meet the needs and interests of customers” and that any situations outside internal rules, when identified or reported, are investigated rigorously, in accordance with the legislation.
