Priscila Valin – COFCO

COFCO International, one of the world’s leading agribusinesses, is at the forefront of global agricultural trade, delivering food and raw materials to sustain the world’s growing population. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, COFCO International operates in over 35 countries, managing agricultural supply chains from farm to fork. The company is making significant investments in Brazil, including building the largest commodities port in South America. This ambitious project will not only enhance Brazil’s export capacity but also strengthen COFCO’s footprint as a global commodities leader.

Priscila Valin | COFCO | Head of Tax

As the head of tax for COFCO Brazil, Priscila Valin plays a pivotal role in guiding the company through complex and shifting tax landscapes. With almost 20 years of experience in agribusiness taxation, Priscila’s expertise has been crucial to COFCO’s success in Brazil. Her leadership is characterized by a commitment to both strategic thinking and the practical realities of navigating one of the world’s most intricate tax systems.

Brazil’s sweeping tax reform, set to be implemented in 2026 with a transition period until 2032, represents the most significant overhaul of the country’s tax system in decades. The reform focuses on consumer taxes, aiming to streamline a complicated framework. However, the lack of concrete regulations and ancillary guidelines has left many companies uncertain about how to proceed.

“Tax reform will fundamentally change how we manage compliance and operational strategies,” Priscila says. “We are currently focused on understanding the reform’s potential impacts and ensuring all departments—commercial, IT, and support teams—know the changes ahead. Even without complete clarity from the government, we must prepare for every possibility.”

The uncertainty has pushed COFCO International’s tax team to take a proactive approach. Rather than waiting for complete legislative guidance, Priscila and her team assess potential scenarios and prepare contingency plans. This forward-thinking strategy helps COFCO International remain agile, regardless of how the final regulations take shape.

Adding to the complexity are changes in income tax regulations, including new transfer pricing rules designed to align with OECD guidelines. Additionally, new legislation targeting minimum taxation, known as Pillar 2, aims to synchronize Brazilian practices with European standards. These shifts add layers of complexity to the company tax strategy.

“Tax experts in Brazil are constantly facing new rules and a lack of clear regulations,” Priscila notes. “It’s not just about understanding the legislation; it’s about leading our company through these changes while minimizing costs and operational disruptions.”

Keeping her team aligned and informed is one of Priscila’s top priorities. The Brazilian tax department has over 20 employees responsible for compliance, consulting, and litigation. Despite the challenging environment, the team has maintained impressive stability and cohesion. Two years ago, it was recognized as COFCO International’s best tax team and celebrated for significantly reducing tax costs in Brazil.

Investing in future talent

Leadership and talent development are cornerstones of Priscila’s management philosophy. Although she never had formal mentors, she remains committed to supporting younger professionals through informal mentorship. Recently, she organized a group of young women in tax to discuss their unique challenges— professionally and personally.

“I recently organized a group of young women in tax to discuss work-life challenges, career growth, and personal stories,” Priscila shares. “It’s not an official mentoring program, but it’s become a meaningful way to connect and support each other.”

The idea originated during lunch breaks at COFCO’s São José do Rio Preto office, where Priscila noticed that younger colleagues valued her insights on balancing career and family. “They usually comment on how life seems easier after our talks and how they’ve applied my advice in their own lives. I think it’s been working very well!”

Priscila’s belief that good professionals attract promising talents drives her recruitment strategy. “The best talents are drawn to strong leaders,” she reflects. “Our team works together like a family, sharing responsibilities and supporting one another. That’s why we were recognized as the best tax team at COFCO International two years ago—our unity and shared commitment made the difference.”

Embracing technology

Although technology isn’t Priscila’s natural comfort zone, she understands the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and data analytics.

“I am not someone who naturally gravitates toward tech,” she admits. “But I see how AI can enhance performance, data analysis, and compliance tracking.”

To stay ahead of the curve, COFCO’s tax team has recruited professionals with strong technical skills to develop tools that streamline tax efficiency. “We are integrating AI to improve data processing and analysis,” she says. “It’s not about replacing people but empowering them to work more effectively and accurately.”

She emphasizes the importance of evolving with technological advancements, noting that new tools help the tax team provide faster, more reliable insights. “I encourage my team to develop innovative solutions and leverage technology where it makes sense,” she adds.

Balancing challenges and passions

Priscila’s dedication to her career is matched only by her passion for personal well-being. During the pandemic, she took up running and Muay Thai to stay active and clear her mind. She also practices Pilates regularly, having done so for nearly a decade. “Maintaining physical health is essential to performing well intellectually and professionally,” she believes.

Family time is a priority, especially traveling with her two teenagers. Whether visiting breathtaking Brazilian sites like Lençóis Maranhenses or exploring international destinations such as Argentine Patagonia, Priscila treasures the opportunity to share new experiences with her kids. “Traveling together helps us bond and learn about different cultures, food, and lifestyles,” she says.

As someone who never planned initially to work in-house, Priscila’s journey to leading COFCO International’s tax department has been defined by adaptability and a commitment to learning. “My career began in law firms, but transitioning to the corporate world meant developing new communication skills,” she reflects. “Learning to translate legal jargon into practical advice took time, but it was essential for building trust and cooperation.”

Priscila’s goals include continuing to navigate Brazil’s tax reform and sharing her knowledge through teaching and speaking engagements. “I’m passionate about passing on what I’ve learned and helping others grow professionally,” she concludes. “It’s not just about solving tax problems but inspiring others to think strategically and work collaboratively.”