By Redação PortalPortuario
Pará leads investments in the Northern region with resources from the Merchant Marine Fund (FMM), administered by the Ministry of Ports and Airports (MPor). R$ 4.7 billion are prioritized for the construction of 414 vessels, including barges, pushers, tugs, ships, and floating platforms. The investments reinforce the state’s position as the main hub of the shipbuilding industry in the Amazon and expand the logistical capacity of the Northern Arc corridors, which are essential for the flow of grains, fuels, and containers.
The FMM is an accounting fund aimed at the development of the merchant marine and the shipbuilding and repair industry in Brazil. The approved resources drive the local production chain, generating employment, income, and technological development, in addition to strengthening river navigation; an essential mode for the transport of cargo and passengers in the region.
“Pará has a strategic role for the Brazilian shipbuilding industry and for the logistics of the North of the country. This significant volume of investments demonstrates the strength 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 largest contract is from LHG Logística Ltda, worth R$ 1.43 billion, for the construction of 128 standard Mississippi 64 bulk barges (64 of the Box model and 64 Racked), in addition to eight river pushers with 2,400 kW azimuth propulsion. With a four-year term, the project is expected to generate 950 direct jobs.
Another notable project is that of Plataforma Logística do Amapá SPE Ltda, worth R$ 1.47 billion, which foresees the construction of 116 vessels and a Floating Transshipment Facility (ITF Santana). Execution will be the responsibility of the Velar and EASA shipyards, both headquartered in Belém, with an expectation of 790 direct jobs.
All projects have the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) as the financial agent and execution terms of up to four years.
