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.
Tokyo-based MODEC Inc. has secured the FEED contract for Shell’s Gato do Mato FPSO project in Brazil. The FPSO will be stationed 250 kilometers off the coast, storing crude oil before transfer. MODEC’s expertise in FPSOs in Brazil is highlighted, marking the 19th FPSO project in the country and second for Shell.
Singapore-based Seatrium has settled bribery charges in Brazil related to offshore engineering contracts. Investigations into predecessor companies Sembcorp Marine and Keppel Offshore & Marine have also been renewed. The case is part of the larger “Operacao Lava Jato” scandal in Brazil. Seatrium will pay approximately US$135 million and comply with post-closing obligations.
