Minister wants to expand fund for inland navigation and create small ports across the country

In a strategic meeting held on Wednesday (Jan 31), Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho, welcomed representatives and associates of the Brazilian Association for the Development of Inland Navigation (Abani). The objective was to address sector demands and shed light on the government’s plans for the port and inland navigation domain. Filho expressed the Ministry’s commitment to formulating a comprehensive agenda with a clear roadmap.

“The intention is to construct a strategic plan for the Brazilian port and inland navigation sector, covering planning, implementation, and completion,” stated Minister Costa Filho.

The ministry is actively fostering direct communication with various stakeholders, including the Civil House, other ministries, agencies, and the Federal Audit Court. “We aim to strengthen cooperation channels to aid Brazil during these challenging times. Things are progressing positively,” added Filho.

Key concerns brought forth by sector representatives encompassed safety in river transportation for both goods and passengers. Additionally, calls were made for improved funding for the area, focusing on the development and renewal of vessels and fleets, particularly for riverside communities.

Abani’s President, Dodó Carvalho, emphasized the pivotal role of inland navigation in Brazil’s development. Carvalho noted the meeting served not only to voice sector demands but also to collaborate closely with the government.

“Presently, we boast the world’s newest fleet of tank barges, with approximately 600 tank barges across the Amazon region. This is made possible by the Merchant Marine Fund, a crucial injection into our industry,” highlighted Carvalho.

Addressing plans for the Merchant Marine Fund, Minister Costa Filho stated efforts towards greater democratization to stimulate increased investment and sector growth. “Our focus is on streamlining processes, ensuring legal certainty, and creating additional guarantees for the fund.”

Boosting Infrastructure with IP4s

Minister Filho also detailed plans for budget supplementation to establish Small Port Facilities (known as IP4s). These facilities, located outside public ports, play a crucial role in facilitating the movement of passengers and goods through inland navigation.

“We are presenting a National IP4 Plan for the Amazon. Over the next three years, our goal is to create 20 new IP4s annually, aiming to enhance the waterway network across the Amazon,” Filho explained.

Economic Milestones and Infrastructure Development

Celebrating Brazil’s return to economic growth, Minister Costa Filho highlighted the country’s ascent from the 11th to the 9th position among the world’s largest economies. The port sector witnessed over 6% growth, and aviation experienced a remarkable 15% surge, with passenger numbers expected to reach over 140 million in the next three years.

The minister also underscored significant infrastructure projects, such as the Santos-Guarujá Immersed Tunnel under the Growth Acceleration Program (New PAC), anticipating the creation of thousands of jobs.

Abani’s Crucial Role

The Brazilian Association for the Development of Inland Navigation (Abani), a private nonprofit entity with 28 associates nationwide, plays a crucial role in passenger, cargo, and container transport. In 2023 alone, inland navigation transported 43 million tons of goods, as reported by the National Waterway Transportation Agency (Antaq).

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