Brazilian Federal Revenue Service extends on‑water customs clearance to all importers

On March 15, 2026, the Federal Revenue Service of Brazil published SISCOMEX Import Notice No. 018/2026, announcing that imports transported by sea and cleared through the Single Import Declaration (Duimp) are now eligible for on‑water customs clearance even for importers not certified as Authorized Economic Operators (AEO). An exception applies to customs units located in the state of São Paulo, where the measure will only be implemented after the decommissioning of the Import Declaration (DI) for the maritime mode.

For AEO‑certified importers, priority treatment remains unchanged: the assignment of the customs inspection channel and, where applicable, customs clearance, will continue to occur immediately after the Duimp is filed. For non‑certified importers, the assignment of the inspection channel will occur only after the risk analysis is completed, in accordance with criteria established by the RFB.

“On‑water customs clearance” is a modality that enables essential steps of the clearance process – including the assignment of the inspection channel and clearance itself – to take place before the vessel berths and cargo is discharged at the port. This modality significantly reduces port dwell time, consequently lowering storage and demurrage costs.

Demarest’s International Trade and Customs team is available to provide further clarification.