Brazil is traditionally associated with its massive domestic market, but many foreign companies fall into the stereotype that certification here is a process “only for giants” with multimillion-dollar budgets. The INMETRO system (Instituto Nacional de Metrologia, Qualidade e Tecnologia), responsible for product conformity assessment, often intimidates newcomers.
But what is the reality? Can a startup or small business pass Brazilian certification and enter the market without astronomical costs?

Main fears of small businesses 

• Too expensive — testing and bureaucracy are allegedly accessible only to corporations.
• Too long — the process may take months or even years.
• Too complicated — unclear documents, Portuguese-language requirements, different accreditation bodies.

These concerns are not unfounded, but in recent years the situation has changed. 

What has changed for startups 

1. Simplified procedures
INMETRO has introduced more flexible rules for certain categories of products. For example, in electronics with existing international certifications (CE, FCC), some tests may be waived.
2. Partnership with accredited laboratories
Small companies can work with independent labs in Brazil or abroad (if recognized by INMETRO), instead of building their own test centers.
3. Access to export support programs
Some international agencies help small businesses cover part of localization and certification expenses.
4. Local representatives and importers
A startup does not need to open an office in Brazil. A local partner can act as the “certificate holder,” reducing costs and bureaucracy.

Where startups most often fail 

• Incomplete documentation package (especially forgetting to translate manuals into Portuguese).
• Labeling mistakes (e.g., missing INMETRO certificate number).
• Incorrect product category assignment, resulting in unnecessary testing.

Real cost-saving strategies 

• Use international certifications as a basis for INMETRO approval.
• Consolidate shipments and product batches to avoid repeat costs for each model.
• Engage a local consultant or certification body in Brazil to find the optimal route.
• Start with voluntary certification, if possible, to test the market before mandatory approval.

Example: electronics and IoT devices 

A startup producing IoT sensors can avoid huge expenses by: 

• completing EMC tests in an accredited lab;
• leveraging existing CE/FCC reports;
• translating documentation into Portuguese;
• hiring a local importer to issue the Certificate of Conformity (CoC).

As a result, costs are reduced significantly compared to a “classic” full testing package.

Conclusion 

INMETRO certification in Brazil is indeed a challenge for startups and small businesses. But today it has become more accessible: flexible rules, recognition of international certificates, and the ability to work through local partners open the Brazilian market without “million-dollar investments.”
Contact WorldWideBridge – we know how to optimize certification for your budget and help small companies successfully enter the Brazilian market.