The strike of the Tax Auditors of the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service, which has now lasted three months, was the subject of a public hearing held at the Legislative Assembly of the State of São Paulo (Alesp) on the afternoon of Wednesday (26).
The meeting was attended by directors of Sindifisco Nacional, representatives of the São Paulo Union Delegation (DS/SP), and delegations from the state's interior, as well as State Deputy Carlos Giannazi (PSOL) and São Paulo City Councilor Celso Giannazi (PSOL), who is also a municipal Tax Auditor.
During the hearing, the Director of Legal Affairs of Sindifisco Nacional and President of DS/SP, Tax Auditor Gabriel Rissato, provided an overview of the lack of salary adjustments over the last two presidential terms (2016 to 2022). He emphasized the need for negotiations to adjust the base salary and mentioned that the initial adjustment granted in 2023 only temporarily eased the financial difficulties of public servants.
"Currently, the MGI [Ministry of Management and Innovation] refuses to open a negotiation table with us," Rissato stated. "This has led to increased mobilization and the strike, which directly impacts society. We seek a swift resolution to minimize these effects."
The coordinator of the National Mobilization Command, Tax Auditor Marcus Dantas, warned about the consequences of the strike, citing the Municipal Participation Fund (FPM) as an example, which is crucial for local finances. "The FPM is composed of revenue from Income Tax and IPI, two taxes that require strict fiscal enforcement. With the strike, this enforcement is weakened. Just in February, some of the 645 cities in São Paulo state and the rest of the country will receive R$ 500 million less," Dantas pointed out.
HOW DOES THE TAX AUDITORS' STRIKE AFFECT INTERNATIONAL TRADE?
The strike of the Tax Auditors has significantly impacted imports in Brazil. With reduced staff at customs offices and ports, customs clearance processes have slowed down, leading to delays in the release of goods. This directly affects sectors such as retail, industry, and even healthcare, which depends on the importation of medical supplies. Business owners have reported difficulties in logistics planning, which may result in increased costs and shortages of certain products in the market.
In his speech, State Deputy Carlos Giannazi (PSOL) expressed solidarity with the striking movement and reinforced his commitment to the cause. "We want to express our support on behalf of our caucuses and all parliamentarians committed to workers' rights and dignity. Here at Alesp, many deputies support the strike, and we will bring attention to this issue in the legislative chamber. Additionally, we will send the transcripts to the federal government, to the Minister of Finance, Fernando Haddad, and to the MGI, demanding that negotiations be opened and that your demands be met," he stated.
City Councilor Celso Giannazi (PSOL) reinforced the importance of Tax Auditors in revenue collection and combating tax evasion. "Tax Auditors play a fundamental role in strengthening the public sector and implementing public policies. We will present a motion at the São Paulo City Council addressed to Minister Fernando Haddad, Secretary Robinson Barreirinhas, President Lula, and the MGI, demanding the immediate opening of negotiations. You have our full support," he affirmed.
In addition to Gabriel Rissato and Marcus Dantas, the panel included the Vice President of DS/SP, Tax Auditor Assunta di Dea Bergamasco, and the Vice President of Legal Affairs of the National Association of Tax Auditors of the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service (Anfip), Tax Auditor Maria Beatriz Branco.
Despite the challenges faced, there is optimism that a negotiated solution will soon be reached, ensuring the resumption of normal activities and the efficient flow of imports. Dialogue between the government and civil servants is essential to creating a favorable environment for economic growth and the stability of international trade. Companies in the sector remain attentive and confident in an outcome that will allow business continuity with security and predictability.