Anglo American, Ferroport hit historic 200 million tonnes shipped at Porto do Açu

Mining company Anglo American and Ferroport, operator of the iron ore terminal at Porto do Açu in northern Rio de Janeiro, have marked a historic milestone: the shipment of 200 million tonnes, achieved with the loading of the capesize vessel Canary. The ship was fully loaded in a single day, with operations completed on August 1.

Since operations began in October 2014, a total of 1,234 vessels have been loaded at the terminal. The milestone highlights the logistical efficiency and operational consistency that Anglo American has developed over a decade with its Minas-Rio system and that Ferroport has achieved at Porto do Açu, reinforcing both companies’ leading role in the global mining sector.

“We operate with complete efficiency and safety at Porto do Açu. These are two core objectives of our Asset Management Program, which have minimized risks to personnel and unplanned downtime while supporting our operational goals. We have also incorporated advanced monitoring technologies, safety training, and strict operational procedures, all of which helped us successfully reach the 200 million tonnes milestone,” said Ferroport CEO Carsten Bosselmann.

Anglo American emphasized that this achievement reflects overcoming operational challenges while maintaining stability, safety, and production quality, as well as the efficient integration of the Minas-Rio system from the mine in Conceição do Mato Dentro (MG) to Porto do Açu in São João da Barra (RJ). With an average iron content of 67%, the premium iron ore from the project strengthens confidence in strategic markets, including China and the Middle East.

“This historic milestone demonstrates our ability to deliver consistent and safe results. It reflects the dedication of our people and our strategic vision, positioning us as a benchmark for technological and purposeful transformation in the mining sector. Reaching 200 million tonnes shipped showcases our operational excellence and consolidates our position as a global leader in premium pellet feed,” said Ana Sanches, president of Anglo American Brazil.

For 2025, the companies expect to move between 22 and 24 million tonnes of iron ore through the terminal, maintaining a strong shipping pace. So far this year, 87 vessels have been handled. Ferroport operates 24/7 year-round, with a nominal capacity of 10,000 tonnes loaded per hour.

“Since the first iron ore shipment in 2014, Ferroport has helped position Porto do Açu as a driver of socioeconomic transformation for the state of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil. With future integration into the national railway network, Porto do Açu and Ferroport will reach a new level, attracting further investment,” said Rogério Zampronha, CEO of Prumo Logística.

In addition to record volumes, Anglo American, Ferroport, and Prumo Logística celebrated pioneering achievements at Porto do Açu. These include the MV Ubuntu Loyalty, the first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessel to berth in Brazil, and the wind-powered MV Camellia Dream, underscoring the companies’ commitment to innovation and sustainability.

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