The President of the Republic signs contracts to expand Petrobras' fleet in RS, revitalizing the Brazilian naval industry.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva signed a significant contract in Rio Grande do Sul for the Petrobras and Transpetro Fleet Expansion Program. This initiative is another important step in the government's strategy to resume marine industry in Brazil, in addition to recovering Petrobras platforms that were deactivated. The event took place in Rio Grande, a city known for housing the fourth busiest port terminal in the country and the Riograndense Refinery, the first in Brazil, opened in 1937.
Contract objectives
O contract signed by Lula involves the construction of four Handy type oil tankers. Each shipment will cost US$ 69,5 million and will be used to transport oil derivatives along the Brazilian coast.
This action aims not only to expand Petrobras' fleet of vessels, but also to generate jobs and income for the sector, with the expectation of creating around 10 direct jobs in the naval industry. Strengthening the naval industry is essential for the Brazilian economy and national sovereignty.
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Petrobras commitments and government involvement with the naval industry
O government The federal government has a clear objective of developing the naval industry in Brazil through the Petrobras System's Naval Fleet Renewal Program.
During a recent event in Angra dos Reis, Petrobras president Magda Chambriard highlighted the importance of this program.
According to her, Petrobras is “stepping on the accelerator” to deliver energy in an increasingly cleaner way and to take advantage of national shipyards to build new ships.
Magda emphasized that Petrobras is committed to renewing its fleet, which represents a significant step for the naval industry and for the Brazilian economy.
Vice President Geraldo Alckmin also spoke about the relevance of the naval industry, stating that it is fundamental for the country's sovereignty and technology.
He highlighted that the Brazilian coast is extensive and home to millions of Brazilians who depend on the sector. Alckmin celebrated the moment of unity and escape for the country and emphasized that everyone is “in the same boat” in search of a better future.
The importance of Petrobras for the naval industry
During the ceremony, Lula reaffirmed the importance of Petrobras for the sovereignty of Brazil. He stated that the stronger Petrobras is, the stronger Brazil will be.
The president highlighted that, by continuing to build ships and platforms, Brazil is advancing its capacity to explore and produce oil, a vital resource for the nation.
Transpetro president Sérgio Bacci stated that this is the first and not the only hiring planned by the company.
“The acquisition of the Handy class vessels is just the beginning of the renewal and expansion of our fleet. Last week, in Angra dos Reis, we launched a tender for eight more gas tankers. And we intend to launch future tenders to contract at least 13 more vessels by 2026, expanding Transpetro’s logistics capacity by up to 25%.”
Hiring details
The contract signed by the consortium between the Rio Grande and Mac Laren shipyards was the result of a bidding process that began in July 2024.
As vessels may be fueled with biofuels, in compliance with the standards of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
In addition to the four Handy vessels, Transpetro plans to launch bids for eight more gas tankers and, by 2026, intends to contract at least 13 more vessels.