ABTP hails breakthrough accord on labor issues in port reform bill

Employer associations and port workers’ federations have signed an unprecedented Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that formalizes a consensus on sensitive points of Bill 733/25, now under discussion in Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies. The bill addresses labor issues in the port sector. According to the Brazilian Association of Port Terminals (ABTP), the MoU brings together joint proposals resulting from a series of negotiations marked by dialogue and a shared commitment to the development of the country’s port industry.

The document covers core aspects for the future of port operations, including definitions and classifications of port work, worker certification, criteria for hiring with employment contracts, and rules for collective bargaining. The signatory entities committed to adopting the agreed points as a joint position in discussions with the Federal Government, Congress, and other institutions. They also pledged to act in a coordinated manner in defending the proposals with lawmakers and the public.

According to ABTP CEO Jesualdo Silva, the agreement represents a milestone in dialogue and institutional maturity within the sector. “The memorandum symbolizes a fundamental step toward modernizing port legislation. The process was conducted transparently, with a genuine willingness to build consensus, always focused on ensuring legal security and predictability for all stakeholders. This is a decisive step for the port sector to move toward a more competitive, modern, and balanced environment, to the benefit of Brazil,” he said.

ABTP stressed that the signing of the MoU reflects a commitment to a high-level, inclusive, and technical debate involving all stakeholders in the port sector. The association maintains that only through this constructive dialogue will it be possible to consolidate modern legislation that can simplify processes, ensure security for investors, and create the necessary conditions for sustainable growth in port activity.

The agreement will now be submitted to the special commission in the Chamber of Deputies as a contribution to the four chapters of the bill that address labor relations. Bill 733/25, which repeals the current Ports Law (No. 12.815/13), is regarded by the industry as a “third opening of Brazil’s ports,” following the legal milestones of 1993 and 2013. The proposal includes 151 articles across eight chapters and aims to tackle logistical, regulatory, environmental, property, and labor challenges.

The bill was introduced by Congressman Leur Lomanto Júnior (União-BA) and is under review by a special commission chaired by Congressman Murilo Galdino (Republicanos-PB), who has already announced a technical visit to the Port of Santos between September 30 and October 1 as part of the debate agenda and contributions to the bill.

Source: ABTP

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