Port Authority Signs Technical Cooperation Agreement for Santos-Guarujá Tunnel

On Friday, February 16th, the Santos Port Authority (APS) took a step further in the construction of the Santos – Guarujá Tunnel by inking a Technical Cooperation Agreement (TCA), brokered between the Federal Government, represented by the Ministry of Ports and Airports (Mpor), and the State Government of São Paulo.

The State’s participation is spearheaded by the Secretariat of Investment Partnerships. Notably, the agreement, which has received the nod from the National Waterway Transport Agency (Antaq) and the Regulatory Agency for Public Transport Services of the State of São Paulo (Artesp), emphasizes the Port of Santos‘s pivotal role in Brazil’s logistical network and its economic significance for the state and local municipalities.

Alex S. de Ávila, the National Secretary of Ports and Waterway Transport, detailed the meticulous planning behind the deal, highlighting that all preliminary steps undertaken by APS before the TCA’s signing will be thoroughly reviewed for potential integration into the project. This includes updates to project plans, route delineation, and the engagement of consulting firms to structure the project’s legal and economic framework.

The construction of the Tunnel will follow as a public-private partnership (PPP) model, encompassing planning, construction, operation, maintenance, and oversight of the crossing.

A detailed Work Plan forms an integral part of the Santos agreement, outlining stakeholder involvement, collaborative efforts in conducting technical, economic, and environmental feasibility studies, and the allocation of financial resources to ensure the project’s success. Mpor and the State will conduct public consultations. APS will actively participate in the process.

Anderson Pomini, President of APS, hailed the agreement’s signing as a win-win for all stakeholders, particularly lauding its positive impact on the Port of Santos and the broader regional community. “This partnership benefits everyone involved,” remarked Pomini, expressing optimism about the project’s potential.

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