Ceara, Brazil

Port Overview

Ceará is a northeastern Brazilian state located on the Atlantic coast, with an area of approximately 148,900 square kilometers, ranking 17th in size nationally. Its capital, Fortaleza, is a major urban and economic hub. Strategically, Ceará’s port infrastructure, particularly the Port of Pecém, is vital for international trade, energy projects, and regional development. The Port of Pecém handles over 500,000 TEU annually, positioning Ceará as a key gateway for containerized cargo in Brazil’s northeast.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Ceará’s main port facilities are centered at the Port of Pecém, featuring three key terminals: dry bulk, liquid bulk, and a Multi-Purpose Terminal (TMUT) for containers and general cargo. The port is equipped with ship-to-shore cranes, mobile harbor cranes, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for efficient container handling. Expansion projects include new berths, utility corridors, and dedicated infrastructure for green hydrogen, LPG, and petroleum derivatives, supporting both industrial and export activities.

Container Terminals

Ceará, Brazil has two main container terminals: Pecém and Fortaleza (Mucuripe). Pecém has 3 berths, a capacity of over 700,000 TEU annually, and features semi-automated operations with modern equipment. Major operator is APM Terminals. Fortaleza (Mucuripe) has 2 berths for container handling, lower capacity, and is less automated, operated by Companhia Docas do Ceará. Pecém is the region’s primary container hub.

Port Services

• Container handling: Modern terminals for containerized cargo, including loading, unloading, and storage.
• Cargo operations: Bulk, breakbulk, and liquid cargo handling for commodities such as coal, iron ore, steel, agricultural products, and chemicals.
• Ship services: Pilotage, tug assistance, bunkering, provisions, water supply, and ship repairs.
• Warehousing: On-site storage facilities for various cargo types, including bonded and general warehouses.
• Customs: Full customs clearance, inspection, and documentation services for import and export operations.

Global Connectivity

Ceará, Brazil, is a strategic maritime hub anchored by the ports of Pecém and Fortaleza. It connects northeastern Brazil to major global markets, with direct shipping routes to Europe, North America, and, notably, a new direct route to China. The region serves as a gateway for exports like iron ore, steel, and agricultural products, and imports machinery and chemicals, supporting both regional industry and international trade.

Port Statistics

Port of Pecém (Ceará, Brazil) – Key Statistics (2025):

• TEU throughput: 389,000 TEUs (Jan–Jul 2025); projected annual throughput above 500,000 TEUs
• World ranking: Not in the global top 50; among Brazil’s leading container ports
• Number of berths: 3 operational container berths (expansion to 4 by 2029)
• Area: Port complex covers approximately 19 km²
• Shipping lines: Served by major global carriers, including direct routes to Asia and Europe