Brazil's Executive Secretariat of the Chamber of Foreign Commerce (Camex) has rejected a request for tariff exemption on 7,500 tonnes of canned sardines from Morocco, maintaining a 32% import duty. The decision was announced on July 10, 2026, according to official records.
Moroccan sardines accounted for only 1.9% of Brazil's total sardine imports in 2025, as per data from Brazil's Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services. The exemption request was filed by Brazilian importers seeking to reduce costs amid domestic supply constraints.
The Camex secretariat cited the need to protect the local fishing industry and maintain market balance. Brazil's own sardine production has faced fluctuations, but the government prioritized domestic producers over foreign competition.
Morocco is a major global exporter of canned sardines, but its share in the Brazilian market remains limited. The tariff decision is expected to keep Moroccan sardines less competitive compared to local and other regional suppliers.
No further appeals have been announced by the importers or Moroccan trade officials as of July 12, 2026.
