Brazil’s ports boost exports and raise surplus by 47.6%

The result was driven mainly by sales to China, the country’s main trading partner (Carlos Nogueira/AT Archive)

Brazilian ports played a central role in the growth of exports in the first quarter of 2026 by ensuring the flow of high-volume cargo such as oil, minerals, and agricultural products. Responsible for more than 95% of the country’s exports, these assets sustain Brazil’s connection with the main international markets.

From January to March, Brazil exported US\$ 82.3 billion, an increase of 7.1% compared to the same period in 2025. As a result, the positive balance of trade — the difference between what the country sells to and buys from abroad — reached US\$ 14.1 billion, up 47.6%.

The result was driven mainly by sales to China, Brazil’s main trading partner, which grew 21.7% in the quarter and totaled US\$ 23.9 billion. Exports to the European Union also increased, rising 9.7% to US\$ 12.2 billion.

With rising international demand for commodities, the importance of investments in the country’s logistics infrastructure is also growing. Therefore, ports are essential to ensure efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain Brazil’s competitiveness in global trade.

According to the Minister of Ports and Airports, Tomé Franca, Brazil has been advancing a consistent agenda of investment and infrastructure modernization. “In 2025 alone, R\$ 7.8 billion were authorized in contracts in the port sector, including new private-use terminals, contractual amendments, and reinvestments in existing leases”, he highlighted.