Northeast Brazil ports growth led by iron ore, oil and soy exports

In the first half of 2025, ports in Brazil’s Northeast region handled 150.5 million tonnes of cargo, according to data from the National Waterway Transport Agency (Antaq). This figure exceeds the volume recorded in the same period last year by 1.2 million tonnes. The report also reveals growth in foreign trade, with imports increasing by 3.27% and exports rising by 3.22%.

Highlights from the survey include the Ponta da Madeira Maritime Terminal (MA), a key iron ore export hub, which registered 75.2 million tonnes and remained the region’s busiest port. The Port of Itaqui (MA) handled 17.2 million tonnes, encompassing both fuel and grain operations.

In Pernambuco, the Suape Industrial Port Complex handled 10.9 million tonnes, with vehicle exports being a notable highlight. In the first half alone, the port moved 37,668 cars, according to terminal data.

Other key logistical hubs include the Madre de Deus Waterway Terminal (BA), specialized in petroleum derivatives, with 9.9 million tonnes, and the Port of Pecém (CE), which handled 9.5 million tonnes of assorted cargo.

The iron ore flowing through Maranhão, the oil exported from Bahia, the vehicles shipped from Suape (PE), and the fertilizers and grains moved through Pecém (CE) illustrate how the Northeast ports are deeply integrated into the region’s economic fabric.

More than just numbers
These figures represent jobs, income generation, and the strengthening of local production chains. One example is the 1.9% growth in Maranhão’s GDP in the first quarter of 2025, outpacing the national average — a result that the state government attributes largely to the performance of its public port.

Agribusiness, mining, and the energy sector also depend heavily on port infrastructure to ship their output, reduce logistics costs, and increase competitiveness.

With results that reflect both the dynamism of foreign trade and the assurance of domestic supply, Brazil’s Northeastern ports reaffirm their strategic role in national logistics. The semester’s performance highlights the importance of these terminals not only for the regional economy but for the entire country.

Source: Ministry of Ports and Airports

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