Svitzer Expands Brazilian Operations with New Tugboat Contracts and São Luís Port Entry

Svitzer Expands Brazilian Operations with New Tugboat Contracts and São Luís Port Entry

Svitzer, a leading global towage provider, has recently enhanced its presence in Brazil through strategic investments and operational expansions.

New Tugboat Contracts

In July 2024, Svitzer signed a contract with Shipyard Rio Maguari for the construction of three new tugboats. This investment underscores Svitzer's commitment to expanding its services in Brazil, aiming to support both new and existing customers. The construction of these vessels at the Belém-based shipyard highlights Svitzer's dedication to leveraging local expertise and contributing to the Brazilian shipbuilding industry. 

São Luís Port Operations

On December 5, 2024, Svitzer commenced operations in the Port of Itaqui, located in São Luís, Maranhão. This marks Svitzer's ninth port entry in Brazil over the past nine years, reflecting a significant milestone in its expansion strategy. The São Luís port complex, encompassing the ports of Itaqui, Ponta da Madeira, and Alumar, serves as a critical logistical hub for the Central-North and Central Brazil corridors. Svitzer deployed two high-performance Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) tugboats, Svitzer Denise and Svitzer Joaquim R, with static bollard pulls of 72 and 76 tonnes respectively, to meet the operational demands of these ports. 

Ongoing Investments and Fleet Expansion

Over the past nine years, Svitzer has invested more than R$650 million (approximately US$125 million) in Brazil. This includes the acquisition of newbuild tugs, establishment of port bases, and comprehensive crew training programs. Currently operating a fleet of 22 tugboats in the country, Svitzer has three additional ASD vessels under construction at the Rio Maguari shipyard. These vessels are designed by Robert Allan Ltd. and are expected to enhance Svitzer's capacity to deliver high-quality, sustainable marine services across Brazil's dynamic maritime industry. 

Strategic Importance

The Port of Itaqui is one of Brazil's largest public ports and ranks as the fourth-largest nationwide. It is a strategic hub for regional production and exports, including commodities such as iron ore and soybeans. Svitzer's entry into this port complex not only strengthens its operational footprint but also supports the continued development of Brazil's national trade and logistics infrastructure. 

Svitzer's ongoing investments and strategic expansions underscore its long-term commitment to the Brazilian market, aiming to provide safe, efficient, and reliable marine services that contribute to the growth and sustainability of the country's maritime trade.