A study shows that piracy generates R$ 500 billion in Brazil and fuels organized crime
- Mar 10
- 1 min read
A survey by the National Forum Against Piracy and Illegality indicates that the piracy market in Brazil generated approximately R$ 500 billion in 2025, the highest figure on record.
According to the study, the money generated by illegal products directly fuels organized crime, in addition to causing billions in losses to the formal economy and public coffers.
Contraband cigarettes lead the illegal market
Among the most lucrative products for criminal organizations are contraband cigarettes. Much of this merchandise enters Brazil via the border with Paraguay, a route historically used for smuggling.
In recent years, however, investigations indicate that criminal groups have begun using more complex routes, including paths that pass through Suriname before reaching Brazilian territory.
The study also shows that 30% of the cigarettes sold in Brazil are of illegal origin.
According to the survey, criminal factions put approximately 32 billion illicit cigarettes into circulation last year, generating approximately R$ 10 billion in profits for organized crime.
In addition, the illegal trade is estimated to have caused a tax loss of R$ 85 billion for the government.
Impact on the Economy and Health
The president of the National Forum Against Piracy, Edson Vismona, stated that the growth of the illegal market harms companies that operate within the law and also poses risks to consumers.
According to him, smuggled or counterfeit products do not undergo health inspections or regulatory oversight, which can have health implications. “It has a huge impact on the productive sectors that comply with the law and pay taxes. It is Brazilian society that loses out—and loses a great deal—as a result of this illicit trade,” he said.
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