Brazilian businessman Luciano Hang, owner of Havan, reiterated his support for equal treatment of Brazilian companies following the announcement of the possible end of the so-called "blouse tax." He believes that if the government intends to remove taxes on imported products costing up to $50, the same measure should apply to domestic products in the same price range.
"I am in favor of tax reduction, but it should happen equally for everyone. If they are going to remove the tax on the entry of foreign products up to $50 into Brazil, then they should remove it equally from Brazilian products. It's not possible to ease the burden on those coming from abroad while continuing to suffocate those who produce, employ, and pay taxes in the country."
According to Luciano, the national retail and industrial sectors face unequal competition, while Brazilian companies continue to be subject to high tax burdens and strict oversight.
“More than a million international packages enter Brazil every day without the same level of control required of domestic companies. Where are Inmetro and Anvisa in this oversight? There is enormous rigor against those who produce in Brazil, while foreign products enter without any inspection.”
For the businessman, the situation represents a risk not only to the economy, but also to public health.
"Products entering the country without control can pose risks to the population. We need to defend national industry, Brazilian retail, and, above all, jobs."
Luciano also commented on the repercussions involving the company Ypê and stated that the case highlights the unequal treatment faced by national companies.
"What happened to Ypê is a clear example of what many Brazilian companies face. While national companies are publicly exposed and attacked, foreign products enter the country with virtually no scrutiny or control."
The businessman also stated that he does not encourage the consumption of products suspended by the competent authorities, but understands that situations like this end up being used to promote political attacks against national companies and public figures.
"That's why I'm speaking out in defense of Brazilian companies, national industry, and tax equality."
According to Luciano Hang, the debate needs to be conducted responsibly and without politicization.
"Unfortunately, we are witnessing yet another attempt to politicize and persecute businesspeople and public figures who are simply speaking out in defense of a national company."
