The Brazilian National Waterway Transport Agency (ANTAQ) has advanced the bidding process for the concession of the access channel to the Port of Paranaguá (PR).

This represents the first-ever concession project for a Brazilian port access channel. The project’s estimated investment is BRL 1.2 billion (US$221 million) over 25 years, with the contract allowing for a potential extension of up to 70 years. Key planned upgrades include deepening the channel to 15.5 meters—up from the current 13.3 meters—beginning in the fifth year of the concession. The deeper channel will enable the Port of Paranaguá to accommodate larger vessels, enhancing port efficiency and supporting economic growth for both the state and Brazil. Planned works also include widening the channel, expanding the turning basin, and deepening the anchorage area, among other improvements.

The future concessionaire will be responsible for investments in dredging, rock removal, nautical signaling, bathymetry, environmental programs, and monitoring services. In the first half of 2025, the Port of Paranaguá ranked as the second-busiest public port in Brazil, handling 30.9 million tons, marking a 2.6% increase compared to the same period in the previous year.