Santos Terminal to expand operational yard area and increase container throughput

The terminal expansion project began in 2019 and, through 2031, around R\$ 3 billion will be invested (Alexsander Ferraz/ AT)

Santos Brasil is taking another step in the expansion project of Tecon Santos, located on the Left Bank (Guarujá) of the Port of Santos. The terminal will gain an additional 4,000 square meters (m²) of operational yard area through the demolition of the administrative building, increasing container handling by 137,000 TEU (a unit equivalent to a 20-foot container) per year. The company’s goal is to expand operational capacity from the current 2.7 million TEU to 3 million TEU by the end of 2026. The plan involves R\$ 3 billion in investments through 2031.

The terminal expansion project began in 2019 and, through 2031, approximately R\$ 3 billion will be invested, of which R\$ 2 billion has already been deployed. “The project has advanced through several stages, including the extension of the quay by 220 meters, completed in 2021, and the expansion of the yard, which increased from 1.8 million to 2.7 million TEU. The goal of reaching 3 million TEU by the end of 2026 will be achieved with the demolition of the administrative building,” said Marcelo Patrício, Director of Port Terminals at Santos Brasil.

He highlighted that the works will allow the berthing of large vessels. “The three berths are prepared to simultaneously receive three vessels of 366 meters,” said the Director of Terminals, noting that Tecon Santos is the largest container terminal in South America and accounts for 17% of all container cargo handled in the country.

Acquisitions

The expansion package includes the acquisition of modern and sustainable equipment. “In addition to the four portêineres (quay cranes) delivered since 2020 and the eight electric RTGs (yard cranes) already in operation, on January 10 two more remotely operated portêineres and eight electric RTGs will arrive. Acquired for around R\$ 300 million, they will expand the terminal’s capacity, automation, and energy efficiency,” Patrício said.

The portêineres, equipped with TPS technology and remote operation capability, enhance automation and operational safety. The latest-generation RTGs expand the pioneering remote operation process initiated in 2024 and contribute to a significant reduction in emissions: each electric unit prevents the release of about 20 tons of CO₂ per month. The complete replacement of the fleet — with plans for an additional 30 electric RTGs — will result in a 97% reduction in emissions from these machines.

In the environmental area, Patrício highlighted that Tecon Santos is advancing ESG policies with more than 50 sustainability projects. These include fleet electrification, the acquisition of 35 natural gas trucks to be converted to biomethane, and the installation of a photovoltaic plant at the warehouse, capable of reducing energy consumption by up to 7%.

The building’s inauguration is scheduled for the second half of 2027 (Reproduction)

Building to Meet International Sustainability Standards

Santos Brasil’s Director of Operations Planning, Evelyn Santo Lima, explained that the future administrative headquarters will have 5,000 m² and will be located near the entry and exit gates. The building will be more aligned with international sustainability standards.

“It is a sustainable building, with a lightweight steel structure, metal brise-soleils, and solar control glass for energy efficiency. The proposal seeks to reduce air-conditioning consumption, improve thermal comfort, and use materials with a lower environmental impact,” the executive said during the project presentation.

Inauguration in 2027

The new building will have five floors and capacity to accommodate up to 450 employees. With an investment of R\$ 72 million and inauguration scheduled for the second half of 2027, the project aligns with the goal of achieving net zero by 2040, incorporating elements for LEED certification, such as a lightweight steel structure, solar control glass, brise-soleils, green terraces, more efficient hydraulic systems, and integration with a bicycle parking area.

Evelyn emphasized that the focus is on employee well-being through biophilic design. “The building will have green terraces and decompression areas so that employees can relax, reduce emotional load, and stimulate creativity,” she said.

The project also includes a central atrium to increase natural light intake, integrated social spaces, and technologies such as water reuse and carbon footprint reduction. “We are currently in the process of hiring the company,” the director concluded.