Sign in Subscribe
International trade

Itaqui Port: A Critical Logistics Hub for Brazilian Agribusiness

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Port of Itaqui, situated in Sao Luis (MA), has emerged as a key logistics pillar for Brazilian agribusiness. As the fourth-largest public port in the country and the primary northern arc, this terminal plays a vital role in fertilizing national agricultural production while also serving as a major export point for soybeans and corn harvested in the central-north region. Between January and July 2025, Itaqui handled over 2.3 million tons of fertilizers, a notable increase from the 1.9 million tons during the same period in 2024.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Port of Itaqui has experienced a significant increase in fertilizer imports, with 2.3 million tons handled between January and July 2025, compared to 1.9 million tons during the same period in 2024.
  • The terminal has seen a significant growth in soybean exports, with 10.7 million tons shipped between January and July 2025, a 6.25% increase from the 10.1 million tons during the same period in 2024.
  • Itaqui is a crucial logistics hub for Brazilian agribusiness, with approximately 75% of its exports consisting of solid bulk, particularly soybeans.
  • The port has established a multimodal mesh, with direct connections to the Transnordestino (FTL) and Carajas Railroad (EFC), and an indirect connection with the North-South Railroad, expanding opportunities for new business.
  • In addition to grains and fertilizers, Itaqui also handles liquid bulk, such as gasoline and diesel, and general cargo, including locomotives and pulp.
  • The port's economic impact supports a wide business network, generating direct and indirect jobs for thousands of workers and involving various public agencies.

Statistics:

  • Between January and July 2025, Itaqui handled:

+ 2.3 million tons of fertilizers

+ 10.7 million tons of soybeans

+ 500,000 tons of corn

  • The port's solid bulk exports accounted for approximately 75% of total exports, with soybeans being the primary commodity.
  • The multimodal mesh serves 4,238 km of rail, passing through seven northeastern states, and the 892 km Carajas Railroad.
  • The port's expansion plans and strategic location reinforce its position among the top 3 public ports in soybean exports and among the first five in imports of inputs for agricultural production.

Sources:

  • Special Advisory of Social Communication Ministry of Ports and Airports
  • Contify.com

Read more