On August 20, the Official Gazette announced the new rule requirements, stating that all footwear produced or imported for sale in Brazil, both in physical stores and online, must comply with the ABNT NBR 16679/2018 Brazilian technical standard.
Labels must display the manufacturer’s name and CNPJ (National Register of Legal Entities), country of origin, size, primary material composition and a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) or equivalent code. For unboxed products, the GTIN must be printed directly on the footwear.
The regulation follows the “Piracy in Brazil, No! Only Original Footwear” campaign led by the Brazilian Footwear Industries Association (Abicalçados). Its Executive President, Haroldo Ferreira, said the measure will deter counterfeiting, protect legitimate producers from unfair competition, curb tax evasion and safeguard consumers’ health.
Manufacturers and importers must comply with the new requirements by July 31, 2026, though retailers can sell existing inventory until December 2027. Failure to comply may lead to penalties such as product seizure, store closure, or fines of up to BRL 1.5 million (US$280,000).
Ferreira noted that the sector is well positioned to adapt to this legislation, as 60% of companies already use composition labels and 70% of those adhere to the ABNT NBR 16679/2018 standard.
Source: World Footwear
