Brado adapts operations to global market shift and strengthens Brazil’s cotton logistics

Brazil’s 2024/25 cotton crop is expected to reach 3.9 million tonnes, a 5.7% increase compared with the previous cycle, according to the National Supply Company (Conab). Despite the projected growth, the season marks an important shift in the international market: according to the Brazilian Cotton Producers Association (Abrapa), exports to China have declined, while India, Pakistan, and Vietnam have emerged as new key destinations for Brazilian cotton lint.

In line with this market trend, the company has significantly adjusted its export flows. Shipments to China, which had led in the previous year, dropped by 65% between January and August 2025 compared with the same period last year. A similar downward trend was seen in exports to Vietnam, which fell by 40%.

In contrast, Brado has strengthened its presence in other markets. Shipments to Turkey rose by 82%, while exports to Pakistan increased by 79% and to Bangladesh by 36%.

These destinations share a common requirement: bromide fumigation, a process not required in China. To meet the new demand, the company expanded its fumigation capacity at the Rondonópolis terminal from 28 to 75 containers, freeing up space at the Port of Santos and improving logistics flow. “This adaptation was essential for ensuring export efficiency and supporting the smooth operation of the port, which is the main gateway for Brazilian cotton exports,” said Mayra Antunes Coelho, Brado’s sales executive.

Infrastructure modernization

The company also invested in upgrades at its multimodal terminal in Rondonópolis (Mato Grosso). Seven pneumatic docks were installed — cargo-handling and lifting equipment that improves operator ergonomics and prevents container damage. Brado also renewed its machinery fleet, acquiring 15 electric forklifts, which make operations quieter, eliminate emissions, and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Another major step was taken in 2023, when three overhead cranes dedicated to cotton handling were installed. The equipment reduces truck unloading times and lessens the need for forklifts, improving safety, speed, and bale integrity.

Alongside this modern infrastructure, Brado benefits from an experienced workforce — 85% of the terminal’s staff are now working through their third cotton harvest. “Our team combines experience with modern infrastructure, providing reliability and quality at every stage of the process,” highlighted Roberto Mattos, manager of Brado’s Rondonópolis terminal.

New trade routes

On the rail front, the company has strengthened its multimodal strategy with new export routes, with trains arriving directly at port terminals in Itaguaí (RJ) and Santos (SP), both in partnership with MRS Logística. Operations through the port of Rio de Janeiro began in 2024. In 2025, Brado carried out pilot shipments to port terminals in Santos, with cotton containers fully prepared in Rondonópolis.

The Sumaré (SP) terminal plays a central role in this process: acting as a logistics hub, it integrates Brado’s rail network with MRS’s, allowing containers to move directly to the port area. This setup ensures greater predictability, eliminates intermediate road stages, and enhances the flow of exports — especially during the cotton harvest peak, from September to November.

With these initiatives, Brado maintains a 98% on-time delivery rate at the Port of Santos — an index measured by the company and validated by clients — and around 20% market share in Mato Grosso’s cotton outflow, even amid a record harvest. The terminal is also certified under ABR-LOG, Abrapa’s program that validates internationally recognized social, environmental, and quality standards.

“Brazilian cotton is undergoing an important market transition, and logistics must evolve with it. At Brado, we’ve invested to anticipate solutions, expand capacity, and ensure smooth operations, strengthening the competitiveness of Brazilian cotton in key international markets,” concludes Mayra.

Source: Brado

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