VIDEOS: EPTV 2 Sul de Minas on Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Governors in Brazil have rejected President Lula's request to lower ICMS taxes on fuels, arguing that such cuts wouldn’t benefit consumers directly.
The governors of several Brazilian states have denied President Lula's request to reduce the ICMS tax on fuels, citing concerns that any reductions would unlikely be passed on to consumers at the pump. This decision reflects ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities regarding tax policies that affect fuel prices. The governors maintain that while the desire to lower costs for citizens is valid, the practicality of such a measure raises significant doubts.
In other news, Minister acknowledges that the federal government plans to inject capital into the postal service (Correios) in 2027 as a move to stabilize its operations amid ongoing financial challenges. Such investments are seen as essential to modernizing the postal service which has faced significant pressure to improve efficiency and service delivery. This is part of a broader agenda to enhance state-owned enterprises in Brazil, underscoring the government's commitment to supporting public services during turbulent economic times.
Moreover, the legislative process appears to be moving forward with the formal endorsement of an agreement between Mercosul and the European Union, which is expected to foster trade relations significantly. The agreement symbolizes a pivotal move for Brazil, aiming to bolster its economic standing in the global market. This development is also indicative of Brazil's strategic efforts to engage with international partners, facilitating economic growth and stability amid various domestic challenges.