Government considers allowing purchase of foods banned by the US

The federal government is considering changing legislation to allow states and municipalities to purchase foods that have stopped being exported to the United States. The proposal calls for the use of these products in school meals. The idea originated with Ceará Governor Elmano de Freitas and was discussed with Finance Minister Fernando Haddad.

According to Haddad, the proposed plan goes beyond school meals and includes state-level actions to support producers affected by the 50% tariff imposed by the US. The minister stated that the federal government will analyze the proposed wording to adjust the law and authorize this type of purchase.

Currently, legislation requires bids for the lowest price, with a margin of preference for domestic products and a minimum allocation of 30% to family farming, in the case of the Food Acquisition Program (PAA). The proposal under discussion envisages a different model that could benefit disadvantaged exporters.

Institutional Relations Minister Gleisi Hoffmann confirmed that the government is considering purchasing food from affected sectors and distributing it to public schools. This measure is part of a contingency plan currently under development.

The change may occur by provisional measure or law.