Chinese automakers are driving the electrification of the Brazilian automotive market. Globally, China is already the leading supplier to Latin America, reaching exports of USD 8.56 billion in 2023, up from USD 2.18 billion in 2019. This accounts for 20% of total automotive imports in the region, surpassing the United States (17%) and Brazil itself (11%). 

In the electric vehicle segment, the Chinese share represents 51% of Latin American sales, including almost all electric buses purchased across the region. At events such as the Direções Quatro Rodas – Brazil-China Connection Forum, major brands emphasized that local production is not just a strategy to avoid the import surcharge (which will reach 35% in July 2026), but also a fundamental pillar for building trust with Brazilian consumers. This includes establishing R&D centers in the country and verticalizing production as a way to secure long-term market loyalty. 

Recently, the Brazilian government enacted the Green Mobility and Innovation Program (Programa Mover – Law No. 12,435/2025), which sets new guidelines for the national automotive industry. The regulation aims to reduce carbon emissions, encourage technological innovation, and improve vehicle energy efficiency. The decree establishes mandatory targets for reducing energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in new vehicles, while also promoting recyclability, the use of new technologies, and biofuels. 

Strategic adoption of Intellectual Property (IP) is becoming a key driver of competitiveness, reputation, and security for Chinese companies operating in Brazil. Support in registering trademarks, patents, and industrial designs with the Brazilian IP Office (INPI) ensures exclusivity of use and reduces risks of opposition or brand/patent “hijacking” by local competitors. Additionally, it allows the adaptation of best practices from both China and Brazil to accelerate anti-counterfeiting actions, including fast-track notification protocols. 

Protecting software, digital content, and training materials—through copyright registrations with entities like the National Library or ECAD—is another essential layer of security for licensing and co-branding initiatives with Brazilian partners. 

Regarding contracts and licensing, specialized advisory services help define scope, territory, and remuneration terms, minimizing the risk of costly litigation in e-commerce agreements. All documentation must comply with Brazil’s Internet Civil Rights Framework (Law No. 12,965/2014) and the national e-commerce decree, ensuring the legal validity of transactions and terms of use. 

From the perspective of the emerging digital ecosystem, where vehicle connectivity and integration with smart devices are advancing rapidly, companies should focus on: 

• Applying AI for virtual assistants, predictive maintenance, and targeted advertising; 

• Ensuring algorithmic transparency, consent management, and data governance; 

• Receiving legal and strategic support in drafting contracts and partnerships with developers; 

• Preparing legally sound Terms of Use for digital services. 

Therefore, the goal is to help secure direct benefits for Chinese investors in Brazil, mitigate investment risks, and provide advisory support in accessing and navigating national IP incentive programs and funding opportunities.