Brazil’s Port of Itaqui Secures 25-Year Extension; New Terminals to Target $225M in Investment

The Brazilian Federal Government and the State of Maranhão formalized an early 25-year extension for the Port of Itaqui’s delegation agreement this Thursday, January 29. With the signing of this contractual addendum, the Maranhão Port Administration Company (EMAP) will continue to lead the management of the complex until 2051, ensuring administrative continuity for the organized port, the Cais de São José de Ribamar, and the Ponta da Espera and Cujupe ferry terminals.

This early renewal is regarded by the industry as a strategic move to provide the legal certainty required for upcoming investment cycles. The Port of Itaqui closed 2025 with a throughput of nearly 37 million tons, maintaining an average annual growth rate exceeding 10% over the last four years. This performance was driven primarily by the steady flow of grain and mineral exports.

Anticipated Investments and Infrastructure

The contractual stability paves the way for two major area auctions scheduled for 2026, which are expected to inject approximately R$ 1.3 billion into the complex. The first area, IQI15, is dedicated to the movement of agricultural bulk, including wheat, corn, and soybeans. The second, IQI16, is designated for mineral bulk with a focus on fertilizers.

Beyond these new concessions, the port complex is in a phase of technological modernization with the implementation of the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS). This project, integrated into the New PAC (Growth Acceleration Program), involves an investment of R$ 36.3 million aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of maneuvers within the access channel.

MATOPIBA Logistics and Sustainability

Strategically positioned, Itaqui has solidified its status as the premier logistical hub for the MATOPIBA region—comprising the states of Maranhão, Tocantins, Piauí, and Bahia. The efficiency in crop distribution and the natural depth of the berths allow the port to receive ultra-large vessels, effectively reducing overall logistics costs in Brazil.

In the realm of socio-environmental governance, the port is positioning itself at the forefront of the “green agenda.” Itaqui is currently the first public port in the country to implement a full decarbonization plan, recently receiving the “Pro-Clima” Seal—a recognition of excellence in climate management awarded by the Brazilian Alliance for Port Decarbonization (ABPD).

Frederico Carvalho Dias, Director-General of the National Waterway Transportation Agency (Antaq), emphasized that the renewal represents a modernization of port management intended to drive efficiency and continued investment. According to Antaq, increased operational efficiency will lead to lower logistical costs and, consequently, greater competitiveness for Brazilian products in international markets.

Source: Ministério de Portos e Aeroportos

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