Pharmaceutical companies request tax reduction for essential medicines

The pharmaceutical industry is stepping up its efforts to secure significant tax cuts on essential medicines. Industry representatives have recently held meetings with leaders of the Chamber of Deputies, arguing that medicines such as flu medications, painkillers, antihistamines and certain antidepressants could see their prices increase without adequate tax reform.

Request for a 60% tax reduction

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The pharmaceutical companies' goal is to obtain a discount of at least 60% on the taxes applicable to these drugs. The current text of the tax reform divides the drugs into categories: some will be fully exempt, others will receive a 60% reduction, and a third category will pay the full rate, which should be approximately 26.5%.

Position of the Ministry of Finance

Despite industry efforts, the Finance Ministry has indicated that there are no plans to review drug taxes at this time, since many of these products are no longer eligible for tax exemptions. Thus, the pharmaceutical sector’s proposal will face significant challenges to be approved.

Room for changes in Tax Reform

In the working group discussing tax reform, there are indications that there is still room for change, which offers hope for the pharmaceutical industry. However, competition for tax exemptions and reductions is intense, and many sectors are seeking similar benefits.

Potential impact and next steps

The reform of drug taxes is crucial to ensure that prices do not increase, especially for essential products such as antidepressants and painkillers, which are in significant demand. The coming weeks will be decisive for the pharmaceutical sector, which will continue its negotiations with legislators in an attempt to secure more favorable conditions for the commercialization of drugs in Brazil.

The outcome of these discussions could directly impact consumers, affecting access to essential medicines and, consequently, public health.

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