Ports in Brazil’s Northern Region Handled 12.6 Million Tonnes in October, Up More Than 31%

Ports in Brazil’s Northern Region handled 12.6 million tonnes of cargo in October 2025, a volume 31.46% higher than in the same period of 2024, when throughput totalled 10.2 million tonnes. The figures, released by the National Waterway Transport Agency (Antaq), confirm the continued growth trajectory of port activity in the region.

According to a survey by the Ministry of Ports and Airports, the increase was driven mainly by inland navigation, which accounted for 7.4 million tonnes, representing a 25.28% year-on-year rise. This mode plays a fundamental role in regional logistics integration, especially in the transport of agricultural and mineral production.

Coastal shipping (cabotage) also posted positive results, with a 26.71% increase compared to October of the previous year, totalling 872,000 tonnes handled. The main highlight was container transport, which surged by 128%, underscoring the growing appeal of cabotage as an efficient, sustainable, and competitive logistics alternative.

For the Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho, the data show that strategic investments in the region are also important for national logistics. “The performance of the Northern Region reflects investments in port and logistics infrastructure and reinforces the role of ports as drivers of economic development, regional integration, and increased competitiveness of Brazilian exports,” he said.

Long-haul navigation reached 4.4 million tonnes, a 19.22% increase compared to October 2024, maintaining a relevant role in the Northern Region’s export flows.

Among the main commodities handled during the period, corn led with 3.8 million tonnes, followed by bauxite with 1.9 million tonnes, and containers, which totalled approximately 1 million tonnes.

By terminal, the Port of Vila do Conde (PA) recorded the highest throughput in October, with 1.8 million tonnes. Next was the Port of Santarém (PA), which handled 1 million tonnes during the period.

The Northern Region’s results mirror the strong momentum of Brazil’s port sector as a whole. According to Antaq, September and October recorded throughputs of 120.4 million and 121.5 million tonnes, respectively—the highest volumes in the historical series.

Source: Ministry of Ports and Airports