Cargo Throughput at Amazon’s Barra Norte Continues to Rise

Cargo throughput at Barra Norte remains on an upward trajectory. In 2024, the region handled 49.7 million tonnes, including both international and coastal shipping, marking a 4.4% increase over the previous year. Private Use Terminals (TUPs) accounted for 77.2% of this volume, underscoring the critical role of the private sector in the region’s port infrastructure. The data, released this Monday (March 24), comes from the Association of Private Port Terminals (ATP).

Barra Norte encompasses terminals located along the banks of the Amazon River and its tributaries, excluding those in the Marajó Bay. The region has established itself as a strategic logistics corridor for cargo shipments and Brazil’s foreign trade, benefiting from improved navigation management and ongoing infrastructure investments. The primary commodities handled include soybeans, corn, and bauxite.

Soybeans and corn originate from the state of Mato Grosso, while bauxite is mined by Mineração Rio do Norte (MRN) in Oriximiná, Pará. Agricultural products are primarily exported to China, whereas bauxite is shipped to Canada and Ireland.

ATP has been working to expand Barra Norte’s operational capacity and enhance efficiency through three key initiatives. The first involves draft increase tests, conducted under authorization from the Navy’s Ordinance 07/2022-Com4ºDN. To date, two successful tests have been completed at 11.75 meters, five at 11.8 meters, and this month, the Penélope I transited the channel with a 11.85-meter draft without incident.

Additionally, ATP has carried out hydrographic surveys—sponsored by member companies operating in the region—to assess the feasibility of accommodating vessels with deeper drafts. One of the key findings was an increase in tidal range, which expands the time windows available for larger vessels. Based on these studies, the nautical chart for the region has been updated.

Channel Concession Proposal

ATP is also advocating for the concession of the channel, a model that would transfer responsibility for hydrographic surveys, traffic management, maintenance, and navigational aids to a concessionaire. The goal is to enhance predictability, efficiency, and safety for navigation in the region.

“With these advancements, Barra Norte continues to strengthen its role as one of Brazil’s key logistics corridors, ensuring greater competitiveness and efficiency in cargo shipments—critical for the country’s foreign trade and global market integration,” said Murillo Barbosa, president of ATP.

Sharing is caring!