Port of Itaqui handles 16.5 million tonnes in first half of 2026

The Port of Itaqui handled 16.5 million metric tons of cargo between January and June 2026, averaging more than 90,000 metric tons a day and underscoring its importance to Brazil’s logistics network.

The result reinforces Itaqui’s role as one of the country’s leading export and import corridors, supported by its infrastructure, operating capacity and connections to major transportation networks.

Soybeans account for more than half of throughput

Dry bulk remained the port’s largest cargo segment, totaling nearly 12 million metric tons in the first half.

Soybeans led the way at 8.5 million metric tons, accounting for more than 51% of all cargo handled during the period. The volume consolidated Itaqui’s position as Brazil’s second-largest soybean export corridor.

The figures reflect the port’s ability to serve growing demand from Brazilian agribusiness while providing competitive and reliable logistics connections to domestic and international markets.

Aluminum leads cargo growth

Several cargo categories recorded strong year-on-year growth during the first half of 2026.

Aluminum volumes rose 75% from the same period last year, while copper increased 15%, corn advanced 4% and fertilizer imports grew 2% to more than 2 million metric tons.

The gains highlight the growing diversity of Itaqui’s cargo mix and its role in serving a broad range of supply chains.

January was one of the strongest months of the period, with throughput 44% higher than in January 2025, driven mainly by dry bulk cargo. The result set the pace for the consistent performance recorded throughout the first half.

“Handling more than 90,000 metric tons a day with this level of consistency is only possible because of the dedication of the people who keep the port running every day,” Port of Itaqui President Oquerlina Costa said.

“Every tonne that passes through Itaqui represents jobs, development and the strength of Maranhão connecting Brazil with the world. We enter the second half of the year with confidence, supported by a solid foundation and cargo segments that continue to expand.”

The second half is traditionally a strong period for grain shipments. Itaqui expects to maintain its current pace and reach new records in selected cargo segments, sustaining the long-term growth of the largest port in Brazil’s Northern Arc export corridor.

Source: Port of Itaqui

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