The new direct maritime route between China and Brazil officially began operating last week, establishing an unprecedented connection between the Port of Gaolan, in the city of Zhuhai, and the Brazilian ports of Santana (AP) and Salvador (BA). The initiative represents a significant advance in trade relations between the two countries, with logistical, economic, and geopolitical repercussions, especially for Brazil's North and Northeast regions. It also reinforces Brazil's position as a strategic partner of China.
The new route is the result of the bilateral agreements signed between the Brazilian and Chinese governments and symbolizes a moment of economic and technological cooperation. The direct connection between Brazil and Asia will expand access to emerging markets in South America, reinforcing the role of Brazilian ports in global logistics. The new maritime corridor directly serves strategic agricultural and mineral production areas.
According to the Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho, the new route expands the presence of Brazilian ports on the international stage and contributes to more efficient, sustainable, and integrated logistics. "We want this integration to translate into development for the Northern and Northeastern states in line with our sustainable agenda and providing social, economic, and logistical gains for the entire country," the minister said.
"The new route reinforces Brazil's green logistics by reducing emissions, connecting Brazil to the world with greater efficiency and environmental responsibility," stressed the National Secretary of Ports, Alex Ávila.
According to Antonio Gobbo, general director of the Bahia Port Authority (Codeba), the opening of this new direct link establishes a strategic trade route with southern China and Hong Kong. "This route will save travel time, reduce freight, and complement the regular Bahia-Asia route, which currently operates with 366-meter vessels. It is aligned with the guidelines of the Ministry of Ports and Airports (MPor)," Gobbo said.
The Port of Salvador can receive vessels of up to 150,000 deadweight tons, operating with high efficiency in loading and unloading operations. The port of Gaolan, in China, is the only deep-water port in the region and moves up to 160 million tons a year.
Another Brazilian port benefiting from the expansion of routes with China is the Port of Pecém in Ceará. The terminal is now part of the Santana Service, operated by MSC and APM Terminals, reducing travel time from China to Ceará to around 30 days. Handling is expected to increase by up to 10%. Trade between both countries will mainly focus on fruits, nuts, granite, and industrial equipment.
For more information: www.gov.br