Brazilian Art Sector Fears New Import Rules Could Disrupt Exhibitions and Fairs
In Brazil, museums and galleries are voicing their opposition to the Brazilian Federal Revenue's (Receita Federal) suggested modifications to the import processes for artworks, which are set to be included in the Single Foreign Trade Portal (DUIMP). The art community, represented by the Brazilian Association of Contemporary Art (ABACT) and the Brazilian Association of Art Galleries (AGAB), is apprehensive about potential hikes in costs and delays. Their initiative, backed by institutions like Inhotim and Pinacoteca de São Paulo, advocates for a dedicated regime for consigned pieces and highlights the importance of regulatory stability. Central issues involve temporary admissions for exhibitions and the preservation of streamlined procedures, with discussions centering on harmonizing customs oversight with the distinct nature of art.
Key facts
- Receita Federal is studying changes to import procedures for artworks, integrating them into the Portal Único de Comércio Exterior via DUIMP.
- Museums and galleries fear increased bureaucracy, costs, and delays for temporary imports for exhibitions and fairs.
- ABACT and AGAB lead the opposition, with support from Inhotim, Pinacoteca de São Paulo, MAM-SP, MAC USP, Instituto Tomie Ohtake, Instituto Iberê Camargo, SP-Arte, and others.
- Temporary admission is a major concern; delays could affect assembly, transport, insurance, and storage.
- Alessandra D’Aloia (ABACT vice-secretary) warns that revoking the current format would make imports slower and more complex.
- The sector requests a specific regime for consigned works from Brazilian artists abroad, allowing temporary entry without immediate tax payment.
- ABACT president Ricardo Sardenberg emphasizes the need for regulatory predictability for major exhibitions.
- Proposals include maintaining simplified procedures, adapting the DUIMP product catalog, and rules for artworks as accompanied baggage.
- Inhotim notes artworks are infungible goods, requiring specialized handling and insurance.
- The debate is between maintaining customs control and avoiding new requirements that could hinder cultural operations.
Entities
Institutions
- Receita Federal
- Portal Único de Comércio Exterior
- ABACT
- AGAB
- Inhotim
- Pinacoteca de São Paulo
- MAM-SP
- MAC USP
- Instituto Tomie Ohtake
- Instituto Iberê Camargo
- SP-Arte
- Associação Amigos do Centro Cultural São Paulo
- arte3
- Expomus
- Art Unlimited SP
- Fortes D’Aloia & Gabriel
- Macimport
Locations
- Brazil
- São Paulo
Sources
- Dasartes —