Maritime trade surplus up 15% YoY in first four months as imports fall and agribusiness exports rise

The Private Port Terminals Association (ATP), which represents companies such as Vale and Bunge, stated that Brazil’s maritime trade surplus increased by 14.56% in the first four months of 2020 when compared to the same period in 2019.  According to the ATP, the maritime trade’s surplus during the four-month period was US$19.7 billion, caused by a fall in import value and a growth in agricultural exports.

According to the organ, these figures are reflected in the fact that Brazilian ports have been operating regularly even during the coronavirus pandemic.  According to the ATP, and government data, Brazilian maritime imports decreased by almost 7% in value between January and April when compared to the same period of 2019, whilst exports remained stable at US$56.75 billion.

Brazilian maritime exports also remained relatively stable during this time in terms of throughput, totaling 195.6 million tonnes. Imports increased by 1.09% in throughput, due to an increase in fertilizer demand. On the other hand, there was a drop in raw material prices, according to an ATP analysis.

Source: Reuters

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