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Merchant Marine Fund Approves Over R$ 6.6 Billion for Projects in Rio, Including Petrobras Ships and New Port Terminal
The state of Rio de Janeiro received a billion-dollar boost for its naval industry. The Merchant Marine Fund (FMM) approved 14 projects aimed at the construction of vessels, port infrastructure, and logistical development. The total investment exceeds R$ 6.6 billion.
The decision was made at the first meeting of the year of the FMM council, held in May. The aim is to strengthen strategic sectors such as oil and gas, as well as modernize existing facilities in the state. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Ports and Airports.
Petrobras Leads with New Ships
One of the most significant projects involves the construction of four Handy-type ships, intended for transporting light oil products. Petrobras will be responsible for the operation of these vessels.
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With an investment of R$ 1.5 billion, the expectation is that the new fleet will help reduce freight costs and increase the company’s autonomy. It is estimated that the project will generate 640 direct jobs over four years. The initiative marks the state-owned company’s return to large-scale shipbuilding.
The Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho, highlighted the impact of the decision: “They represent a new phase for the naval industry in Rio de Janeiro. The state will benefit from both local ventures and the vessels that will operate in other parts of the Southeast.”
Shipyard Will Be Modernized
Another important project approved by the FMM is from the company Green Port. The plan involves the construction of a new floating dock and improvements at the shipyard in Ilha da Conceição, Niterói. The estimated investment is R$ 242.2 million.
The goal is to increase the technical service capacity of the unit and reduce waiting times for maintenance. This way, the naval sector can operate more efficiently, speeding up timelines and reducing costs.
Port Terminal Will Receive R$ 3.5 Billion
Cedro Participações also had a project approved. It involves the construction of the ITG 02 port terminal, aimed at the movement of iron ore. The venture will receive R$ 3.5 billion in investments and promises to generate 2,847 direct jobs.
The new terminal will be more sustainable and focused on logistical efficiency. The expectation is that it will contribute to consolidating the Southeast as a strategic logistics hub for Brazil.
Fund Sets Record for Approval
In addition to projects in Rio de Janeiro, the FMM approved a total of R$ 22 billion in funding for 26 projects in different regions. This is the largest amount ever released in a single meeting of the fund.
The Merchant Marine Fund is a federal government initiative aimed at strengthening the national naval industry. It is managed by the Ministry of Ports and Airports, with financial support from banks such as BNDES and Caixa Econômica Federal.
With the new projects, the fund reaffirms its importance for job creation and the development of the country’s port infrastructure.
With information from TecMania.
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