Brazil is the only major market where suspended ceiling tiles use the 625×625mm module instead of the international 600×600mm standard. For importers and manufacturers, understanding the sizing difference and Brazilian regulatory landscape is essential before placing orders.
| Dimension | Brazil Standard | International Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Grid module (nominal) | 625 × 625 mm | 600 × 600 mm |
| Actual plate size | 618 × 618 mm | 595 × 595 / 603 × 603 mm |
| Rectangular format | 1250 × 625 mm (plate 1243×618) | 1200 × 600 mm (plate 1195×595) |
| Grid type | T-24 (24mm face width) | T-24 / T-15 (15mm face width) |
| Reference standard | NBR / ABNT aligned | EN 13964 / ASTM C635 |
| Typical thickness | 8 mm most common | 7 / 9 / 12 mm |
| Edge protection | Plastic edge tape + foil backing required | Optional — market dependent |
The 625×625mm module originated with Brazilian T-24 grid systems standardized by local manufacturers such as GYPSYSTEM and Espacoforro. The nominal dimension includes the grid face width, so the actual plate is 618×618mm. Importers who supply the international 595×595mm size will find it does not fit Brazilian T-grids correctly.
Plasterboard enters Brazil under NCM code 6809.11.00. Import taxes include II (10–18%), IPI, PIS/COFINS (11.75%), and ICMS (state VAT 17–25%) — a combined burden of roughly 65–80% over CIF value. Working with a supplier who understands Brazilian packaging requirements (edge guard tape, aluminium foil backing) avoids both customs friction and returns.
For Chinese manufacturers, the opportunity is clear: Brazilian retail prices for PVC gypsum tiles run R$27–34/m² (~US$5–6/m²) while FOB China is US$0.89/m². Even after the 65–80% tax burden and freight, landed cost remains roughly half of Brazilian retail. The key is producing to the exact 618×618mm plate with proper edge protection.