The year 2025 marked a significant milestone for the Imbituba Port, characterized by record achievements and extensive infrastructural developments. Christiano Lopes de Oliveira, President of SCPAR Porto de Imbituba, shared insights on the port’s progress and ambitious goals for 2026 during an exclusive interview.
Imbituba Port’s Record Performance in 2025
Imbituba Port concluded 2025 with outstanding results, moving between 7 to 8 million tons of cargo. This historic performance set off a “yellow alert” regarding the port’s capacity, as utilization reached 92%. Lopes emphasized the need for expansion to accommodate future growth.
Infrastructure Projects and Future Capacity Goals
The primary focus for 2025 was on extensive planning and investment aimed at overcoming identified bottlenecks. The port is undergoing its largest infrastructure upgrade to date, with renovations on Cais 1, 2, and 3. These improvements are expected to enhance the terminal’s capacity to 15 million tons by 2026.
- Cais 3: Investments exceeding R$ 115 million are helping to expand operational length from 200 to 335 meters.
- Cais 2: Ongoing improvements, including a new mooring dolphin, contribute to a total investment of R$ 15 million for both Cais 1 and 2.
- Logistical Enhancements: A new maritime line called Puma has been added, improving connections between Uruguay and Asia.
Operational Advancements and Technological Integration
An important development in 2025 was the authorization of 40 experimental maneuvers by the Brazilian Navy for container ships up to 366 meters in length. This strategic decision is expected to bolster the port’s operational efficiency and overall competitiveness.
Technological enhancements included the opening of a new data center with an investment of R$ 8.5 million. This facility aims to improve real-time data processing and storage capabilities.
Statistics and Cargo Movements
From January to October 2025, the port handled 6.17 million tons, with October alone accounting for 714,700 tons and 27 ship calls. Key cargo statistics include:
- Exportation: 2.53 million tons, primarily of calcined coke and corn meal.
- Importation: 2.86 million tons, marking a 2.5% increase from the previous year.
- Cabotage: 547.3 thousand tons shipped, 136.8 thousand tons received.
- Transshipment: Saw a remarkable 113.1% year-on-year increase.
The port’s international trade surpassed US$ 1.44 billion, with expectations to exceed 7 million tons for the year.
Community Engagement and Support
Imbituba Port has also strengthened its ties with the local community through increased sponsorship and funding for educational and cultural initiatives. Direct investments rose from under R$ 100,000 in 2022 to over R$ 700,000 in 2025.
Furthermore, R$ 31 million has been allocated for infrastructural improvements to the surrounding areas by the port, demonstrating its commitment to both operational and communal growth.
Looking ahead, Lopes is optimistic about the continued expansion and modernization of Imbituba Port, aimed at achieving remarkable results for the region’s economic development.
