With Over 17 Million Tons Handled, Itaqui Port Records Best First Half in History

Itaqui Port closed the first half of 2025 with a historic performance. From January to June, cargo throughput reached 17.2 million tonnes—up 10% from the same period in 2024 and 7% above the projected volume. The result marks the best first semester in the port’s history.

Solid Bulk led the throughput, accounting for roughly 70% of the total, with soybeans standing out at 8 million tonnes—10% higher than the previous year. Fertilizers also posted strong performance, with nearly 2 million tonnes handled, a 39% increase over 2024. Pig iron and copper also showed significant growth, rising 20% and 19%, respectively.

Liquid Bulk, which represented 25% of total throughput, saw notable gains in tallow, which surged 70% compared to the previous year. Caustic soda and petroleum derivatives also recorded increases, reinforcing the port’s growing cargo diversification.

“These results are made possible by the logistical efficiency of Itaqui. We are increasingly focused on bringing innovation and agility to our operations to drive development throughout Maranhão,” said Carlos Roberto Frisoli, the port’s operations director.

Economic Impact
The record performance of Itaqui Port in the first half of 2025 has begun generating positive economic shifts across Maranhão through the expansion of production, increased demand for inputs, and enhanced logistics capabilities. Furthermore, consistent results are boosting public and private investor confidence, potentially attracting new industrial, logistical, and agricultural ventures to the state.

“This increase in cargo volumes shows the port is operating efficiently and attracting more business. It strengthens Maranhão’s image as a reliable logistics hub throughout Brazil,” emphasized acting port president Isa Mary Mendonça.

Expanding Throughput Capacity
To sustain its steady growth, Itaqui is investing in infrastructure to enhance its handling capacity. One of the key initiatives is the construction of Berth 98, which will increase export capacity by over 8 million tons per year and boost annual revenue by approximately 20%.

Another milestone was the launch of ship-to-ship operations at Berth 108 in July 2025. This operation allows cargo transfers directly between ships, freeing up other berths for different activities, reducing vessel wait times, and increasing overall port productivity. Itaqui now operates two berths with ship-to-ship capability (Berths 106 and 108).

Key Highlights

Solid Bulk (tonnes)
Soybeans: 8,848,157 – 10% above previous year, 5% above plan
Fertilizer: 1,980,868 – 39% above last year, 33% above plan
Pig Iron: 316,896 – 20% above last year, 27% above plan
Copper: 453,402 – 19% above last year, 15% above plan

Liquid Bulk (tonnes)
Derivatives: 4,131,327 – 7% above previous year, 8% above plan
Caustic Soda: 50,374 – 10% above last year, 12% above plan
Tallow: 21,881 – 70% above last year, 18% above plan

General Cargo (tonnes)
Rails: 16,094 – 16% above previous year, 130% above plan

Source: Informativo dos Portos

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