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Largest Resource Release in FMM History Allocates R$ 22 Billion to Ship Construction, Shipyard Modernization, and Port Infrastructure Expansion in Brazil
The naval and aquaculture sector in Brazil has just received a historic boost. The Board of Directors of the Merchant Marine Fund (FMM) approved a total of R$ 22 billion to finance 26 projects related to vessel construction, repairs, shipyard modernization, and new port infrastructures.
The announcement was made after the meeting held on Tuesday (6), considered the largest resource release in FMM history in a single session.
The aim of the measure is to strengthen national logistics and promote the recovery of the Brazilian shipbuilding industry.
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“We are breaking another record, with the approval of this large volume of investments, to leverage and strengthen the naval industry and the aquaculture sector,” declared Minister Silvio Costa Filho, responsible for the Ports and Airports portfolio.
Petrobras and DOF Lead Vessel Projects
Among the highlights of the approval are the R$ 4.1 billion requested by Petrobras. The amount will be used for the construction of eight gas carriers aimed at transporting LPG.
Another relevant project is that of DOF Subsea Brasil Serviços, which received approval to invest R$ 3.2 billion in the construction of four RSV-type vessels.
The projects reinforce the recovery movement of the national shipbuilding industry, which has faced reduced activity in recent years.
Investments in Ports and Shipyards Gain Momentum
In addition to vessel construction, the meeting also approved funds for infrastructure projects. One of the main ones is the modernization of the Green Port shipyard in Niterói (RJ), with an investment of R$ 242 million.
A new iron ore export terminal was also authorized for construction in Itaguaí (RJ) by Cedro Participações, valued at R$ 3.9 billion. Meanwhile, in the South, Tecon Rio Grande (RS) will be modernized with an investment of R$ 533 million.
Of the total amount, R$ 15.4 billion is allocated to 19 new projects. The other R$ 6.7 billion will go to resubmitted initiatives. This was the first FMM meeting in 2025. Three more are expected to occur by the end of the year.
New Rules Facilitated the Release of Resources
The advancement of investments was also favored by CMN Resolution No. 5.189, published in December 2024. The regulation changed the application rules for FMM resources. Consequently, minimum interest amounts were eliminated and amortization periods for repairs and dockings were extended. The regulation aims to simplify processes and increase the competitiveness of Brazilian shipyards.
With information from Agrofy.
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