The Ministry of Ports and Airports in Brazil is implementing programs to enhance operational practices and promote environmental sustainability in port infrastructure. Key initiatives include a decarbonization framework and rigorous monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions, aiming to significantly reduce emissions in the maritime sector by 2035.
Nigerian authorities have detained 22 crew members of the bulk carrier Aruna Hulya after discovering 32 kilograms of cocaine hidden on board. The vessel, which departed from Santos, Brazil, arrived in Lagos on December 26. This incident highlights Nigeria’s role as a key transit point in international drug trafficking networks.
SAAM Towage has secured the PAS 2060 certification for carbon neutrality in Brazil for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability. The company actively reduces emissions and offsets them through carbon credits, aiming for further greenhouse gas reductions by 2030. This sets a new standard in maritime environmental practices.
Equinor’s FPSO Bacalhau has begun oil production in Brazil’s Bacalhau field, marking a significant milestone for the company. This advanced vessel, capable of producing 220,000 barrels daily, is pivotal for Equinor’s sustainability goals and aims to generate over $5 billion in free cash flow by 2030, enhancing Brazil’s energy landscape.
Images have emerged of the aftermath of the containership incident at Itajaí, Brazil, where the vessel Vincente Pinzon broke free from its moorings due to strong currents. Emergency teams quickly secured the ship, preventing injuries or significant damage. This incident raises safety concerns as the port undergoes modernization plans.
Singapore-based Seatrium has finalized agreements related to a 2015 corruption case involving its predecessors, Sembcorp Marine and Keppel Offshore & Marine. Settlements in Brazil and Singapore aim to resolve the issues stemming from Brazil’s Operation Car Wash, allowing Seatrium to progress without further complications or financial impact.
LALIZAS is expanding in the Americas, having acquired Brazil’s leading lifejacket manufacturer, ATIVA NÁUTICA. Founded in 1998, ATIVA has grown significantly under Marta Lara and Roberto Sampaio. This acquisition reinforces LALIZAS’ commitment to nurturing small businesses while enhancing the nautical industry and setting new safety standards across continents.
A dispute between Petrobras and Gerdau has caused a year-long delay in dismantling an oil production vessel in Brazil, impacting local shipyards. The vessel, FPSO P-32, was set for decommissioning by 2024, but work only began last month due to disagreements over petroleum residue removal. Efforts are underway to resolve the conflict and meet the deadline.
Norway and Brazil are joining forces to reduce emissions from maritime activities, focusing on offshore oil and gas exploration. Through advanced technology and sustainable fuels, they aim to cut greenhouse gas emissions significantly. Norwegian companies are exploring biofuels from Brazil and testing ammonia-powered engines and fuel cells for electric vessel recharging by 2026.
The Brazilian Ministry of Ports and Airports unveiled a $3 billion investment plan for privatizing major terminals, with over 50 projects in the works. The goal is to attract investors and modernize the port sector, including leases at the Port of Santos and an auction for the STS10 Terminal.
Brazil’s Federal Police seized a large amount of cocaine on a bulker anchored offshore in Maranhao state. The crew discovered suspicious packages and alerted authorities, leading to an investigation. The vessel, named Jawor, was scheduled to dock for a soybean cargo destined for Spain. The police suspect crew involvement in the smuggling operation.
A year after Singapore launched an investigation into pre-2015 corruption involving Sembcorp Marine and Keppel Offshore & Marine, Seatrium confirmed additional information requests. The company settled in Brazil over decade-old activities and agreed to a fine in Singapore in February 2024. MAS and CAD are now investigating potential offenses, with Seatrium pledging full cooperation. Former executives also face charges.
The Rio Grande Port Authority is experiencing disruptions due to heavy rainfall and flooding, affecting cargo ships and terminals. The region, a major producer and exporter of grains and meat, has faced challenges with transportation and production. Climate change impacts in Southern Brazil are exacerbating the situation for grain traders and businesses like Bunge.
Severe flooding disrupts road and rail links to a major grain port in southern Brazil, increasing freight costs. Grain arrivals in Rio Grande drop due to heavy rains. Despite normal port operations, water levels rise, affecting shipping. Rio Grande is a key port for soybean and soybean meal exports in Brazil.
Inflation hawks can now relax as maritime shipping rates are trending down, easing concerns of higher consumer goods prices globally. The spike in rates earlier this year was fueled by pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions. Recent incidents, like the Red Sea shipping lane shutdown by Houthi rebels, have further impacted global shipping routes.
