São Luís Port Terminal Cleared to Export Corn to China

The São Luís Port Terminal (TPSL), operated by VLI—a logistics company integrating railways, ports, and terminals—has been authorized to export corn to China, solidifying its role as a key link in Brazil’s logistics network. This achievement not only demonstrates compliance with China’s stringent phytosanitary protocols but also underscores the growing importance of the Arco Norte region (Amapá, Amazonas, Maranhão, Pará, and Rondônia) as a strategic export corridor.

Chinese demand for Brazilian corn surged after 2022 when the war in Ukraine disrupted grain supplies in the region. In response, China expanded its trade agreements and, starting in 2023, introduced stricter quarantine requirements, including rigorous criteria related to seeds and pests found in Brazil.

To meet these standards, TPSL underwent a detailed registration process with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Agricultural Management System (Sipeagro/Mapa). This process included formally registering the terminal as a corn exporter and submitting documentation such as the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) manual and monitoring reports on aflatoxins and pesticides.

Certification also required adjustments to terminal operations and staff training to ensure full compliance with Chinese regulations. “Our commitment is to the quality of the grain from reception to loading. We rigorously monitor all parameters required by regulatory agencies and international contracts. This allows us to maintain strict control over operations and ensure that shipments reach customers safely and in top condition,” said Brenda Guedes, an agronomist responsible for product quality at VLI.

With this certification, Brazil further strengthens its position as a strategic corn supplier to China. Last year, the Santos Port Complex was also cleared for corn exports. The Arco Norte region, which had not exported corn to China before 2023, has made remarkable progress, shipping 3.6 million tonnes in 2023 and 2.2 million tonnes in 2024 despite a global market slowdown. “Arco Norte’s market share nearly doubled, rising from 23% in 2023 to 44% in 2024. This share is expected to grow even further in 2025 with TPSL’s certification,” noted Vanessa Rocha, VLI’s grain account manager.

With the quality and reliability certification required by China, TPSL is now positioned not only to meet current demand but also to tap into new opportunities in the global grain market. In addition to corn, the terminal is already authorized to export soybeans to China.

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