VLI Gains Approval to Export Corn to China via Espírito Santo

VLI has received authorization to export corn to the Chinese market through Espírito Santo, utilizing the General Cargo Terminal (TPD) at the Port of Tubarão. This approval grants clients served by VLI’s East Corridor — connecting the Triângulo Mineiro to Espírito Santo’s port system via the Ferrovia Centro-Atlântica (FCA) and Vitória-Minas Railway — access to the world’s largest corn-importing market.

To meet the requirements, the TPD underwent a detailed registration process with Brazil’s Agricultural Management System (Sipeagro/Mapa), certifying the terminal as a port warehouse for corn exports to China. This included documentation such as the Good Manufacturing Practices Manual (GMP) and systems to monitor mycotoxins and pesticide residues in stored corn.

The approval also involved infrastructure adaptations and staff training to comply with Chinese standards.

“Grain quality is a core priority for VLI. From reception to loading, all regulatory and contractual parameters are strictly monitored to ensure safe and high-quality delivery to demanding markets like China,” said Daniel Schaffazick, VLI’s East Corridor Operations Director.

VLI operates import and export flows in Espírito Santo, handling cargo such as grain, meal, fertilizers, pulp, and steel industry inputs and finished products. Through its East Corridor, VLI transports approximately 16.7 million tonnes by rail and moves 16.2 million tonnes through Espírito Santo ports annually.

Chinese demand for Brazilian corn has grown significantly since 2022, following the war in Ukraine, which disrupted grain supplies in that region. As a result, China expanded its trade agreements and implemented new phytosanitary protocols in 2023, requiring strict controls over seeds and pest occurrences in Brazil.

FCA Concession Renewal

In parallel with new operations at Espírito Santo ports, VLI is awaiting the federal government’s decision regarding an early renewal of its FCA concession, under which it has committed to invest nearly R$ 30 billion — including R$ 10 billion earmarked for rail modernization and urban mobility improvements.

According to VLI’s plan, around 65% of these investments will be made within the first 15 years following the renewal agreement, benefiting Espírito Santo ports and strengthening their connection to Brazil’s interior via the company’s East Corridor.

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