The decision contributes to project progress and Phase 1 implementation
Porto Central, a deep-water industrial port complex located on the southern coast of Espírito Santo, has received financing approval from the Board of Directors of the Merchant Marine Fund (CDFMM), linked to the Ministry of Ports and Airports, during its 62nd Ordinary Meeting held on March 18, 2026.
According to Jessica Chan, this is a very important milestone for the advancement of the project and the implementation of Phase 1. “It represents institutional validation by the Brazilian government of the project’s feasibility and strategic relevance within the country’s logistics and energy infrastructure. This recognition strengthens the project’s financial structure and increases the confidence of partners, financiers, and other stakeholders involved in its development.”
Jessica Chan also explains that the decision contributes to accelerating the implementation already underway. “Support from the FMM is a relevant component within the project’s financing strategy, adding predictability and competitiveness to its capital structure, in line with best practices in infrastructure projects.”
Porto Central was the largest individual project approved. “Projects like Porto Central, in Espírito Santo, demonstrate the progress of investments in strategic port infrastructure, with the capacity to increase cargo handling, attract new business, and strengthen the country’s logistics integration. We are building a more modern and competitive environment for Brazil’s port sector,” said the National Secretary of Ports, Alex Ávila.
The Merchant Marine Fund (FMM) is a public policy instrument aimed at developing Brazil’s shipbuilding industry and the port and waterway sectors. Financing is carried out through accredited financial institutions such as BNDES, Caixa Econômica Federal, and Banco do Brasil, and follows its own regulatory stages until contracting, in accordance with the program’s guidelines.
The definition of the operating bank occurs during the contracting stage, within the regulatory period of up to 450 days after approval, extendable by an additional 180 days. Funds are disbursed in installments, according to physical progress and the achievement of project milestones.
Jessica notes, however, that the implementation schedule is not dependent on the full disbursement of financing. “The project already has allocated equity and continues to move forward as planned. The FMM acts as a structured complement, reducing the cost of capital and increasing the project’s financial predictability.”
Next steps
With the onshore area already prepared and the quarry in operation supplying rock, the next phase of Porto Central includes the start of maritime works, including dredging of the access channel and port area, as well as the construction of the south breakwater— key elements for the development of port infrastructure.
Phase 1 was designed to enable oil export operations through ship-to-ship (STS) transfers, allowing the safe and efficient transfer of cargo to larger vessels and reinforcing the complex’s positioning as a strategic logistics solution for the flow of national production.
Porto Central’s master plan, however, was structured with a long-term vision to consolidate an integrated hub for oil, natural gas, and new energy value chains, agribusiness, mining, general cargo, and industry, as well as to host one of the largest container terminals in Latin America, capable of connecting Brazil more competitively to the main global trade routes.
There are already firm contracts with major companies such as Petrobras, Equinor, CNOOC, and RepsolSinopec. The participation of leading pre-salt producers ensures initial demand for the Phase 1 Liquid Bulk Terminal.
More about Porto Central:
With more than 20 million square meters, Porto Central will be one of the largest port and industrial complexes in the country, operating as a multipurpose hub on the southern coast of Espírito Santo. The project will feature deep-waters with up to 25 meters, capable of receiving the largest ships in the world and handling a wide range of cargo, including crude oil, gas, power generation, offshore support, grains, fertilizers, minerals, containers, and general cargo, among others.
Press contact:
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Daniela Klein +55 (27) 98179-9000 (WhatsApp only)