Pará leads investments in the Northern region of Brazil with resources from the Merchant Marine Fund (FMM), administered by the Ministry of Ports and Airports (MPor). R$4.7 billion (USD 876 million) have been prioritized for the construction of 414 vessels, including barges, tugboats, boats, and floating platforms.
These investments aim to consolidate the state’s position as the main hub of the Amazonian naval industry and expand the logistical capacity of the Northern Arc corridors, essential for the transport of grains, fuel, and containers.
The FMM is an accounting fund focused on the development of the merchant marine and the shipbuilding and repair industry in Brazil. The approved resources boost the local production chain, generating jobs, income, and technological development, in addition to strengthening river navigation, an essential mode of transport for cargo and passengers in the region.
Pará plays a strategic role in the Brazilian naval industry and in the logistics of the country’s north. This volume of investment reflects the solidity of the region’s shipyards and the federal government’s commitment to the sustainable development of the Amazon, stated Minister Silvio Costa Filho.
Main Projects
The most important contract was awarded to LHG Logística Ltda., valued at R$1.43 billion, for the construction of 128 standard Mississippi 64 bulk barges (64 Box and 64 Racked models), in addition to eight 2,400 kW azimuth propulsion river tugboats. With a duration of four years, the project is expected to generate 950 direct jobs.
Another notable project is the Amapá Logística SPE Ltda., worth R$1.47 billion, which includes the construction of 116 vessels and a Floating Transfer Facility (ITF Santana). The Velar and EASA shipyards, both based in Belém, will be responsible for the initiative, which is estimated to generate 790 direct jobs.
All developments have the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) as the financial agent and execution deadlines of up to four years.
