Ministry of Ports and Airports Announces BRL 20 Billion in Investments by 2026
The Ministry of Ports and Airports (MPor) has announced a strategic plan to modernize Brazil's port sector, with an expected investment of BRL 20 billion by 2026. The initiative includes 55 projects, including leases and concessions, as well as unprecedented measures such as the inclusion of waterway concessions in the national strategy.
Investments
Between 2013 and 2022, Brazil conducted approximately 45 port auctions. Now, the government plans to surpass this number with 55 scheduled auctions by the end of 2026. In the first quarter of 2025, strategic areas of the ports of Paranaguá (PR), Santos (SP), and Rio de Janeiro (RJ) will be auctioned.
The expectation is that the modernization and expansion of port infrastructure will increase operational efficiency, enhance the competitiveness of national production, and drive the country's economic and social development.
In 2024 alone, the port sector registered a 6% growth, with a 15% increase in container handling. Since the implementation of the Ports Law, the country has made significant advances in investment and logistical efficiency.
To maintain this trajectory, the government is betting on tax incentives and competitive credit lines. Among the key financial instruments are the Merchant Marine Fund (FMM), the National Civil Aviation Fund (Fnac), the Climate Fund, FNE-Proinfra, and BNDES Finem.
Sustainability
In addition to prioritizing the shipping sector and the so-called “green ships,” the government plans to allocate 30% of the Merchant Marine Fund to projects focused on sustainability and gender equity. Another key initiative is the use of the Green Climate Fund (GCF), which has a global portfolio of US$ 13.9 billion, aimed at adapting to climate change.
Incentives
To ensure the sector's attractiveness, the government will expand the use of incentivized debentures, which offer reductions or exemptions from Income Tax at source, and the Special Regime of Incentives for Infrastructure Development (Reidi). Additionally, funds such as the Investment Guarantee Fund (FGI) and the Operations Guarantee Fund (FGO) will be available to mitigate risks and attract more investors.