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Português do Brasil Brazil ranks among the largest global markets in the paints and coatings segment, sharing prominence with powerhouses like China, the United States, and India. This prominence is driven by strategic sectors of the economy, such as automotive and real estate, which continue to fuel demand for various categories of paints and coatings.
This promising scenario creates opportunities for both national production and companies that choose to import paints and related products, aiming to offer quality, innovation, and competitiveness to the end consumer.
In this article, you will find an updated overview of the paints and coatings market in Brazil, with a focus on imports and the essential logistical considerations for the international transportation of these products.
How is the Paints and Coatings Market Structured in Brazil?
According to data from the Brazilian Association of Paint Manufacturers (Abrafati), the breakdown of the national market is as follows:
• 1,8%: Original automotive paints (used by automakers);
• 3,8%: Automotive refinish paints;
• 19,3%: Industrial paints (intended for appliances, furniture, and equipment);
• 75,3%: Architectural paints, used in construction and renovations.
In 2024, the sector reached a record volume of 1.983 billion liters, representing a 6% increase compared to 2023. The biggest drivers of this growth were the real estate market (with a 5.9% increase in sales) and the automotive sector, which showed a 9.7% rise in paints used by vehicle manufacturers.
For 2025, Abrafati expects the sector to grow between 2.5% and 3%.
The Growth of Paint and Coating Imports
According to information from Comex Stat, Brazil imported approximately US$ 1.08 billion in paints, pigments, varnishes, and similar materials in 2024 — a value 17% higher than that recorded in the previous year.
The total volume imported reached 311 thousand tons, reflecting an increase of over 25% compared to 2023.
Main Supplying Countries:
• China: 34.8% (US$ 375.90 million)
• United States: 12.6% (US$ 136.40 million)
• Germany: 8.5% (US$ 91.59 million)
• Mexico: 5.4% (US$ 57.78 million)
• United Kingdom: 4.9% (US$ 52.64 million)
This movement reinforces the strategic importance of imports in meeting the demand of the Brazilian market with diversified and high-quality products.
International Transportation of Paints and Coatings: How Does it Work?
The logistics of importing paints and coatings involve several considerations, especially due to the chemical nature of the product. Here are the most used modes of transport:
• Maritime: Responsible for about 88% of imports. It is the preferred option for large volumes and long distances, combining cost and capacity.
• Air: Used in 9% of cases, usually for high-value paints or urgent deliveries. Despite the speed, it has higher costs.
• Road: Represents only 3%, as Brazil does not have a significant volume of paint imports from neighboring countries.
Extra Attention: Paints and Coatings are Chemical Products
A significant portion of paints and coatings requires specific care during transportation, especially those containing solvents, as they can be flammable or corrosive. These are classified as dangerous goods, subject to international regulations.
Water-based paints, on the other hand, do not pose similar risks and are not included in this category, although they also require technical documentation.
Essential Documents:
• MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): ou FISPQ (Ficha de Informações de Segurança de Produtos Químicos)Mandatory for all types of paint.
• Shipper’s Declaration: Required in air transport for dangerous goods.
• Anevo VII: Necessary for maritime transport of this type of product.
These documents ensure the safety of the operation, in addition to guaranteeing compliance with international standards for the transportation and storage of chemical substances.
Conclusion
Brazil is consolidating itself as one of the largest paints and coatings markets in the world, with prospects for sustainable growth and openness to new entrants. Imports play a fundamental role in this ecosystem, expanding the range of options for companies and consumers.
However, the international logistics of paints and coatings requires specialized attention. Chemical products demand careful planning, precise documentation, and appropriate transportation — fundamental elements for successful operations.
Avoid mistakes when importing!
Having a specialized import consultancy can save you from many future risks. See what Genco Import & Export can do for you:
- Sourcing your product to find the best value for your product.
- Simulating all costs before you embark on this journey.
- Negotiating values with suppliers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers.
- Unifying all documents. Less headache for you!
- Closing the exchange rate for your process.
- Conducting inspections and issuing complete reports for your follow-up.
And much more!
Count on Genco for the best advisory for your imports.
Contact us and learn more about our services!
