In a significant statement as he assumed his role as Minister of Finance, Dario Durigan emphasized the government's urgent need to address fuel prices by proposing the exemption of ICMS on imported diesel. He indicated that if states do not follow through with the proposal, the government will have to pursue other avenues to ensure that the population is not left vulnerable amid rising fuel costs due to geopolitical tensions like the ongoing war in Iran. Durigan highlighted that he has already received positive feedback from some state governors, which suggests that there is potential support for the proposal.

The proposed exemption aims to alleviate pressure on diesel prices, which have surged recently, posing a significant challenge for both consumers and various economic sectors reliant on diesel. The government is willing to compensate states for 50% of the revenue loss resulting from the exemption, which would amount to an estimated cost of R$ 3 billion for the federal government and the same for the states. This financial support is intended to incentivize state governors to agree to the plan, which is seen as a reasonable approach to address the fuel crisis collectively.

Durigan’s remarks highlight the crucial balancing act the government faces: ensuring fuel affordability while managing state budgets. The cooperation of state governments will be pivotal in the success of the proposed measure. As the situation unfolds, the effectiveness of the government's strategy in fostering unity among states will determine the implications for consumers and broader economic stability in Brazil, especially during a period marked by rising global fuel prices.