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In a move that shook the maritime transport sector this Monday (21), MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company) announced the purchase of the historic Brazilian port and maritime logistics company Wilson Sons for no less than R$4,35 billion. That's right: billions! It is the purchase of the year in the sector. And as if that were not enough, this transaction not only represents an expansion of MSC in Brazil, but also seals the future of one of the oldest companies in the country.
Wilson Sons, founded back in 1837 by two Scottish brothers who landed in Salvador, continues to show its relevance even 187 years later. Specializing in tugboat services and port operations, the Brazilian port and maritime logistics company has attracted the interest of MSC, a global giant in the sector, which has now added to its portfolio of Brazilian operations the container terminals operated by Wilson Sons in Rio Grande (RS) and Salvador (BA).
What is at stake in the MSC and Wilson Sons negotiations?
With an enviable track record and a net income of approximately R$1,3 billion in the first half of 2024, Wilson Sons is a key player in the national maritime transport market. Its services range from towing large vessels, essential for safe docking in ports, to logistical support on oil and gas exploration platforms.
Its presence in two of the country's most strategic ports – Rio Grande and Salvador – reinforces its importance in the container terminal sector.
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For those who follow the sector closely, This billion-dollar acquisition of the Brazilian port and maritime logistics company Wilson Sons by MSC was already expected, given the Swiss company's growing interest in expanding its operations in Brazil. In addition to its already operating terminals in Navegantes (SC) and its joint venture in the port of Santos with Maersk, MSC will now be able to further consolidate its operations in the country.
Next Steps
The transaction, however, still depends on the approval of the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) and the National Waterway Transportation Agency (Antaq). If everything goes as expected, the sale of Wilson Sons will be officially completed in the second half of 2025. Until then, the next few months will be of intense regulatory analysis to ensure that the operation does not compromise market competitiveness.
And what does this acquisition mean? For MSC, it is a decisive step towards further dominating the Brazilian maritime transport and logistics market. For Wilson Sons, the merger with one of the largest shipping companies in the world can be seen as recognition of the excellence that has been built over almost two centuries. The future, by all indications, is one of expansion and new challenges.
With final approval, the impact of this billion-dollar deal is expected reverberate throughout the sector, redesigning the port logistics scenario in Brazil. The market will undoubtedly keep an eye on it.
