Port of Santos sets historic record and handles 186.4 million tonnes in 2025

China remains the main trading partner, accounting for 29.6% of transactions originating from or destined to the Port of Santos (APS/Divulgação)

The Port of Santos closed 2025 with the best result in its history. Cargo throughput reached 186.4 million tonnes, representing a 3.6% increase over the previous record set in 2024 (179.8 million tonnes).

The performance was driven by a strong December, which recorded 14.7 million tonnes, a 16% increase compared to the same month last year (12.7 million tonnes).

According to the president of the Autoridade Portuária de Santos (APS), Anderson Pomini, the figures reflect operational efficiency and the complex’s capacity to meet growing national logistics demand.

“Throughout 2025, container throughput set records in every month, while general cargo reached record levels in most months. The results demonstrate the resilience of the Porto de Santos and the effectiveness of investments in infrastructure, as well as confirming Brazil’s growth in global trade,” Pomini stated.

Containerized general cargo was one of the main drivers of growth. The port surpassed the mark of 5.9 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units), an increase of 7.7% compared to 2024. In terms of weight, this segment totaled 62.3 million tonnes (+3.9%).

Solid bulk cargo reached 94.5 million tonnes for the year, an increase of 4.2%. The highlight was the soybean complex, which handled 44.9 million tonnes, posting growth of 18.9%. Pulp also recorded a strong performance, rising 21.5% to 9.9 million tonnes.

On the other hand, some cargoes showed declines in the annual total, such as sugar (-10.8%), corn (-4.6%) and liquid bulk cargo (-6.3%). “However, it is important to note the recovery of these cargoes in December, when solid bulk grew by 36.7% and corn surged by 44.9% compared to December 2024,” APS reported.

Trade Flow

Outbound operations (exports) totaled 137.4 million tonnes in the year, an increase of 4.6%. Inbound operations (imports) remained stable, with a slight increase of 1%, totaling 49 million tonnes.

The Port of Santos’ share of Brazil’s foreign trade continues to expand. By December 2025, the complex accounted for 29.6% of all Brazilian international trade transactions.