RIO DE JANEIRO, December 17, 2025 – As temperatures soar to 35°C in Brazil’s summer season, winter-themed Christmas ornaments and affordable electronics from the Chinese mainland dominate store shelves, powering one of South America’s largest holiday shopping surges. Retailers report a 40% year-on-year increase in seasonal imports, with over 80% of decorations and mid-range gifts bearing "Made in China" labels.
"These snowflake lights and knit Santa hats arrive by ship each October," said Maria Silva, a Rio resident shopping at Saara Market. "They’re durable, festive, and cost half the price of local alternatives."
The trend reflects strengthened China-Brazil trade ties following the 2024 BRICS expansion, with e-commerce platforms like Shein and AliExpress now handling 30% of Brazil’s holiday orders. Analysts note the shipments’ 18,000-km journey from Shenzhen to Santos Port demonstrates evolving global supply chain resilience.
While environmental groups raise concerns about transport emissions, retailers emphasize partnerships with Chinese suppliers to develop solar-powered LED displays and biodegradable tinsel – innovations accounting for 15% of this year’s seasonal imports.
