Port of Imbituba Ends 2025 With Major Works and Investments Redefining Operational Capacity

The Port of Imbituba closes 2025 as one of the main drivers of logistics in Santa Catarina, propelled by structural advances, technological modernization, and strong operational results. One of the year’s major milestones was the strategic authorization granted by the Brazilian Navy, through the Santa Catarina Harbor Master’s Office, allowing 40 experimental maneuvers with container vessels of up to 366 meters LOA.

With this approval, the port moves to a new level of competitiveness, becoming capable of receiving large vessels that significantly expand its integration into major international logistics corridors.

The year is also marked by the start of the largest cycle of works and expansion projects in the port complex’s history. Pier 3, which is receiving total public investments of more than R$ 115 million, is undergoing its most extensive intervention since 1979, when it began operations. The works, which include rehabilitation and reinforcement, structural expansion, installation of containment columns, and construction of berthing and mooring dolphins, involve investments of R$ 91 million.

These interventions will increase the operational length of Pier 3 from the current 200 meters to 335 meters. The works are already underway and, as an additional step, dredging and rock removal to deepen Pier 3 will be contracted in 2026. The deepening is expected to take place during the shutdown of Pier 3 operations, between December 2026 and March 2027.

At the same time, Pier 2 is progressing with the installation of a new mooring dolphin which, together with rock removal at Pier 1, represents public investments of around R$ 15 million. These works will allow the two berths to serve up to four vessels simultaneously. Pier 1, in turn, continues with berth-area expansion works aimed at increasing depth to 15 meters. After the construction of the Pier 2 dolphin, which will enable the simultaneous berthing of up to four vessels, the combined interventions will further enhance the operational efficiency of the complex.

Complementing this cycle of institutional advances (dolphins, rock removal, dredging, drainage, breakwater rehabilitation, gates, and other investments) and the expansion of maritime connections, the Port of Imbituba foresees more than R$ 300 million in public investments.

Another relevant institutional milestone was the signing of the new Delegation Agreement between the Federal Government, the State, and SCPAR Porto de Imbituba, officially unifying the administration and operation of the ports of Imbituba and Laguna for the next 25 years. The measure strengthens port governance in Santa Catarina and creates new operational synergies. On the logistics front, the port authority added the weekly Puma shipping service to its portfolio, complementing the Brazex and ALCT-2 routes and strengthening connections between Uruguay, Brazil’s Northeast, and Asian markets, increasing the flow of higher value-added cargo.

Modernization

Technological modernization also advanced with the inauguration of the port’s new data center, an investment of R$ 8.5 million that integrates state-of-the-art digital solutions, expands real-time data storage and processing capacity, and strengthens connectivity among companies and operators active in the port complex.

From an operational standpoint, Imbituba posted performance above expectations. Between January and October, 6.17 million tonnes were handled and 268 vessel calls were recorded, with October standing out as the busiest month of the year, at 714,700 tonnes and 27 vessels served. Exports totaled 2.53 million tonnes, driven by calcined coke, non-calcined coke, and corn meal.

Imports reached 2.86 million tonnes, up 2.5% compared with the same period in 2024, led by bituminous coal, salt, and industrial inputs. Cabotage also grew, totaling 547,300 tonnes shipped and 136,800 tonnes discharged, while transshipment recorded a sharp increase of 113.1% year over year.

Solid bulk remained the main segment, accounting for 77.8% of total throughput, while containerized cargo represented 17.3%, surpassing 1.06 million tonnes. In foreign trade, the port handled more than US$ 1.44 billion over the period, reaffirming its strategic role in Santa Catarina’s trade balance.

See below a historical overview of exports and imports via the Port of Imbituba. The chart was prepared using DataLiner data:

Exports and Imports in Long-Haul Shipping via the Port of Imbituba | Jan 2022 to Oct 2025 | WTMT

Source: DataLiner (Click here to request a demo)

Beyond the numbers, the Port of Imbituba deepened its relationship with the local community. More than R$ 170,000 was allocated to local organizations through four editions (2022 to 2025) of the Port Festival (Arraiá do Porto), while more than 8,000 visitors took part in the “Open Port” program since its launch. Combined, culture, sports, and social projects received around R$ 700,000 in investments this year.

With expectations of surpassing 7 million tonnes handled this year and major structural projects underway, Imbituba closes 2025 strengthened and ready for a new cycle of growth, innovation, and logistics integration in southern Brazil.

Source: Portal Portuario

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