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Exports

Port of Itaqui Consolidates Position as Brazil's Top Grain Export Corridor

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Port of Itaqui in the Brazilian state of Maranhao has solidified its position as the primary link between the state's agribusiness and the international market. With its modern and strategic infrastructure, the port serves as a vital transportation hub for agricultural production in the southern part of the state, as well as neighboring regions such as Piaui, Tocantins, Mato Grosso, Bahia, and Para. The port's efficient rail connections and specialized deep berths have reduced costs and provided a more economical logistical alternative for producers from Maranhao and neighboring states.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Port of Itaqui handled 13.94 million tons of soybeans in 2024, a 1 million ton increase from the previous year.
  • In the first six months of 2025, the port of Maranhao handled 8.8 million tons, 10% above the same period in 2024 and 5% above the planned volume.
  • The Maranhao Grain Terminal (TEGRAM) has handled over 84 million tons of grain over its 10-year operation, with a multimodal reception structure, 500,000-ton storage capacity, and high-performance maritime shipping.
  • The Sao Luis Port Terminal (TPSL), operated by VLI, boasts five silos, two warehouses, and a static capacity of 255,000 tons, integrating with road and rail transport for agile and efficient production flow.
  • The Port of Itaqui is the largest port in Brazil's Northern Arc, consolidating its position as an essential logistics hub for national agribusiness.
  • The port's efficient infrastructure has enabled producers from Maranhao and neighboring states to sell their products at more competitive prices on the global market.
  • The growth in grain movement at the Port of Itaqui is a response to the high international demand for agricultural commodities, particularly soybeans and corn.

Statistics:

  • 13.94 million tons of soybeans handled at the Port of Itaqui in 2024.
  • 1 million ton increase in soybean volume from 2023 to 2024.
  • 8.8 million tons of grains handled at the port of Maranhao in the first six months of 2025.
  • 10% increase in grain volume from the same period in 2024.
  • 5% above planned volume in the first six months of 2025.
  • Over 84 million tons of grain handled by the Maranhao Grain Terminal (TEGRAM) over 10 years.

Sources:

  • Sao Luis: Brazilian State of Maranhao
  • https://www.ma.gov.br/noticias/porto-do-itaqui-firma-se-como-principal-via-de-exportacao-do-agro-no-maranhao

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