Port of Santos records historic cargo throughput in May

The Port of Santos recorded the highest monthly cargo throughput in its history in May 2025, with 16.6 million tons processed. This volume represents a 5.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024, also marking the best performance ever achieved for May.

Among the segments that drove the performance, solid bulk stood out (+5.3%), with a significant increase in soybean exports (+12.6%) and soybean meal (+6.9%). Containerized general cargo reached 477,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units), the highest figure ever for May (+7.5%).

Year-to-date, container throughput has also reached record levels, totaling 2.29 million TEU (+6%). Liquid bulk rose 2.3% compared to May 2024, reaching 1.6 million tons, with highlights including increases in fuel oil exports (+51.3%) and citrus juice (+11.8%).

“This historic record in May reflects the excellence of our port management and the strength of our logistics. Every ton handled is the result of strategic planning, investments in operational efficiency, and strong partnerships with the private sector,” said Anderson Pomini, CEO of the Santos Port Authority.

Below is a historical overview of cargo throughput from Santos Port. The chart was prepared using DataLiner data:

Cargo Throughput from Santos Port | Jan 2022 – Apr 2025 | TEUs

Source: DataLiner (click here to request a demo)

General cargo
Another segment that set monthly and year-to-date records was Break Bulk Cargo, which reached 1.1 million tons in May (+36.7%), driven by a historic high in pulp: 919.2 thousand tons, representing a 45.5% increase over the same month last Year.

Other positive highlights include increases in the unloading of sulfur (141.8 thousand tons, +29.9%), caustic soda (129.7 thousand tons, +65.3%), and wheat (126.1 thousand tons, +12.8%). Vessel traffic also reflects the port’s growing activity, with 495 ship calls in May (+4.9% versus 2024).

From January to May, the port increased its relevance in national logistics, accounting for 29.8% of Brazil’s total trade flow — up from 29.3% in 2024. China remains the Port’s top trading partner in 2025, responsible for 29.3% of foreign trade transactions.

Despite the overall positive outlook, some segments showed occasional declines, such as sugar (–7.2% in exports) and coffee (–21.4%), reflecting seasonal and market-related adjustments.

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