Port of Suape Completes External Channel Dredging

The Port of Suape achieved an important milestone with the successful dredging of its external channel, deepening it to 20 meters, marking a crucial step towards bolstering operational efficiency. This development heralds the commencement of a new phase, involving the channel’s marking system and the approval of its newfound depth by the Brazilian Navy. Suape stands as the sixth-largest public berth in cargo movement, handling a staggering 23,982,451 tons in 2023.

Upon the anticipated completion of this three-month stage, the berth will be primed to accommodate large vessels, including Suezmax oil tankers, at maximum capacity. The extensive intervention, executed over four months with cutting-edge dredging equipment, underscores Suape’s strategic positioning as a key port option in the nation.

“The dredging of the external channel holds paramount importance in ensuring requisite infrastructure and operational efficiency. In the short term, it will optimize the liquid bulk terminals’ operations, notably benefiting the Abreu e Lima Refinery,” remarks Marcio Guiot, CEO of Suape.

Guiot emphasizes that this development aligns with the refinery’s expansion plans, slated to double its refining capacity, thus attracting more operations to Suape. Additionally, the intervention is poised to augment the movement of various commodities, including containers, vehicles, general cargo, as well as mineral and vegetable bulk.

“In conjunction with the ongoing dredging of the internal channel, set for completion by the first quarter of 2025, Suape will meet the requisite conditions for vessels to dock at internal berths at maximum capacity, bolstering competitiveness and delivering benefits for public pier operators,” highlights the port’s manager.

The supplementary dredging initiative, launched on December 1, 2023, incurred a cost of R$140 million, entailing the removal of 1,700,000 cubic meters of sediment within a meticulously scheduled and licensed framework. Renata Loyo, head of Suape’s Infrastructure Directorate, expresses satisfaction at the project’s timely completion, underscoring its significance for the complex and the wider regional sphere of influence.

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