Corn exports drive cargo growth at Northern Region ports in Brazil

Organized ports in Brazil’s Northern Region handled a total of 30.2 million tonnes of cargo between January and August 2025. Solid bulk accounted for the largest share, totaling 24.8 million tonnes over the period. In August alone, 3.9 million tonnes of solid bulk were handled, an increase of 2.16% compared with the same month in 2024. The data comes from the Waterway Statistics Report released by the National Waterway Transport Agency (Antaq).

The growth was driven mainly by corn shipments, which totaled 2 million tonnes in August, up 10.4% from August 2024. Fertilizer movements also rose 18% year-on-year, reaching 542,000 tonnes in August 2025. Next came inorganic chemical products, which increased by 13.10% to 488,000 tonnes.

According to the Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho, the results underscore the strategic importance of the Northern Region within Brazil’s logistics network. “The growth recorded reflects the gains in efficiency and competitiveness at Brazilian ports, consolidating the region as one of the country’s main drivers of development and logistical integration,” the minister said.

Cargo handling by port

The Port of Santana (AP) recorded the highest percentage growth among organized ports in the region. Cargo handling rose 25.2%, from 316,000 tonnes in August 2024 to 395,000 tonnes in August 2025, driven mainly by corn shipments, which grew 85% compared to the same month last year.

The Port of Santarém (PA) also posted gains, handling 1.9 million tonnes in August 2025, an 11.25% increase over August 2024. There was also a 45.33% rise in exports compared with the same month last year.

The Porto Velho terminal (RO) recorded a 0.92% increase in total cargo handled compared with August 2024, mainly driven by soybean shipments, which totaled 123 million tonnes.

According to Antaq, other organized ports in the Northern Region also stood out, including the Port of Vila do Conde (PA), which handled 1.8 million tonnes, and the Port of Belém (PA), with 264,000 tonnes in August 2025.

Source: Ministério dos Portos e Aeroportos

Sharing is caring!