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Brazil enacts stringent lead paint law, aligning with global standards
Brazil has passed Law 15,441/2026, setting a maximum lead content of 90 ppm for all paint categories. The regulation modernises the country’s coatings sector, enhancing public health and environmental protections while aligning with international best practices.
Brazil has taken a decisive step toward eliminating lead from paints by enacting Law 15,441/2026, which imposes a maximum lead content of 90 ppm across all coating categories. Signed into law by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the legislation aligns Brazil with the highest international standards for lead control, reflecting significant progress in public health and environmental protection.
Developed with support from Abrafati, the Brazilian Paint Manufacturers Association, the new law builds on previous regulations established in 2008, which limited lead content only in architectural paints and products for children. The updated framework now applies to a broader range of coatings, including those used in automotive refinish coatings, infrastructure applications, road-marking paints, and industrial sectors such as furniture and railcars. Companies have one year from publication to comply with the updated requirements.
Expanded scope and exceptions under the new law
The legislation’s expanded scope marks a major shift in Brazil’s regulatory approach, offering enhanced protections for workers and consumers handling paints throughout their lifecycle. Luiz Cornacchioni, Executive President of Abrafati, emphasised that the Brazilian paint industry is well-equipped to meet the new standards. “Since 2008, the industry has made significant technological advancements, enabling the replacement of lead-containing raw materials without compromising product performance or quality,” he stated.
However, two categories are exempt from the 90 ppm limit: marine antifouling coatings and zinc-rich anticorrosive coatings. For these specialised applications, the law sets a higher threshold of 600 ppm, in line with global technical standards.
A milestone in sustainability and competitiveness
Cornacchioni also highlighted the broader implications of the law for Brazil’s coatings sector. As the world’s fourth-largest paint producer, the country’s alignment with international best practices boosts its competitiveness on the global stage. “This modernisation of Brazil’s regulatory environment strengthens our industry’s sustainability and innovation while ensuring high standards of safety and technical excellence,” he remarked.
