Port of Santos sets new record with 16.6 million tons of cargo handled in a single month

Soybean loading in Santos: a 13.6% increase in grain cargo and 6.9% in soybean meal in May (Carlos Nogueira/AT Archive)

The Port of Santos recorded the highest monthly throughput in its history in May 2025, with 16.6 million tons of cargo processed. This volume represents a 5.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024, also marking the best performance ever achieved for the month of May. The data was released by the Santos Port Authority (APS).

Among the segments driving this performance, solid bulk cargo stood out (+5.3%), with significant growth in soybean grain exports (+12.6%) and soybean meal (+6.9%). Containerized general cargo reached 477,000 TEUs (the standard measure for a 20-foot container), the best result for the month of May (+7.5%).

For the year to date, container throughput has also reached record levels, totaling 2.29 million TEUs (+6%). Liquid bulk registered a 2.3% increase over May 2024, reaching 1.6 million tons, with notable growth in fuel oil shipments (+51.3%) and citrus juices (+11.8%).

“This historic record in May reflects the excellence of port management and the strength of our logistics. Each ton moved is the result of strategic planning, investment in operational efficiency, and strong partnerships with the private sector”, said Anderson Pomini, president of the Santos Port Authority.

General cargo Another sector that achieved both a monthly and year-to-date record was break bulk cargo, which registered 1.1 million tons in May (+36.7%), driven by a historic high in pulp exports: 919.2 thousand tons, representing a 45.5% increase compared to last May.

Other positive highlights include growth in the imports of sulfur (141.8 thousand tons, +29.9%), caustic soda (129.7 thousand tons, +65.3%), and wheat (126.1 thousand tons, +12.8%). The number of vessel calls also reflects the port’s expanding activity, with 495 berthings in May (+4.9% compared to 2024).

National relevance From January to May, the port increased its relevance in Brazil’s national logistics, accounting for 29.8% of the country’s trade flow — up from 29.3% in 2024. China remains the Port’s top trading partner in 2025, with 29.3% of all foreign trade transactions.

Despite the positive outlook, some segments showed isolated declines, such as sugar (–7.2% in shipments) and coffee (–21.4%), “a reflection of seasonal and market adjustments”, according to APS.