Manaus, Brazil

Port Overview

Manaus is the capital of Amazonas state in northwestern Brazil, located near the confluence of the Negro and Amazon rivers, deep within the Amazon rainforest. As Brazil’s seventh-largest city, it has a population of over 2.2 million and covers about 11,400 km². Manaus is a major inland port and industrial hub, strategically important as the gateway to the Amazon and a duty-free zone. The Port of Manaus handles approximately 500,000 TEU annually, making it a key logistics center for northern Brazil.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Manaus, Brazil’s main port facilities are centered on the Chibatao and Superterminais container terminals, both located on the Rio Negro. Chibatao handles the majority of deep-sea and all cabotage cargo, while Superterminais manages the remaining deep-sea container volume. Both terminals are expanding, with Chibatao nearly tripling its operational area and extending its quay to 710 meters. Equipment includes ship-to-shore cranes, rubber-tired gantry cranes, and plans for increased automation and new handling machinery. The port also features general cargo facilities supporting regional industries and exports.

Container Terminals

Manaus, Brazil, hosts key container terminals like Chibatao and Superterminais. Chibatao is expanding its capacity to 500,000 TEUs. Superterminais is enhancing automation. The terminals have multiple berths, with Chibatao handling significant deepsea cargo. Major operators include Chibatao Navegacao and Superterminais. Automation levels are being upgraded, particularly at Superterminais. These terminals serve the Manaus Economic Free Trade Zone, a vital economic hub.

Port Services

Main Services at Manaus, Brazil

• Container Handling: Full container load (FCL) and less than container load (LCL) operations, supported by modern cranes and dedicated container terminals.
• Cargo Operations: Bulk, breakbulk, and general cargo loading/unloading; specialized equipment for heavy lifts and diverse cargo types.
• Ship Services: Vessel agency, crew support, ship supply (provisions, fuel, water), hold cleaning, hull cleaning, and moderate ship repair facilities.
• Warehousing: Storage and distribution services for cargo, including bonded warehousing options.
• Customs: Full customs clearance and documentation support, facilitating smooth import/export processes.
• Logistics: Freight forwarding, project logistics, and end-to-end supply chain solutions.
• Port Support: Pilotage (compulsory for certain stretches), tug assistance, barge services, and garbage disposal.

Manaus Port serves as a key river hub in the Amazon, handling both international trade and regional transport, with comprehensive services for vessels, cargo, and logistics.

Global Connectivity

Manaus, Brazil, is a key connectivity hub in the Amazon region. It serves as a major transport center for the upper Amazon basin, connecting to ports like Belém and Santarém via river routes. The port facilitates trade with major markets through ocean-going vessels that navigate the Amazon River. It is a crucial gateway for river cruises and cargo shipments, including bulk goods and containers, to and from international markets.

Port Statistics

Manaus is a riverine port located in Brazil's Amazon region, primarily serving as an inland distribution hub rather than a major container terminal. The port handles general cargo, bulk commodities, and containerized goods, though specific TEU throughput data and world rankings are not readily available as it operates differently from conventional seaports. The port faces seasonal operational challenges due to Amazon River water level fluctuations, particularly during the dry season between September and early 2026, which affects draft restrictions and navigability.