Photo: screengrab from the official website of Brasil 247

By Brasil 247 - Brazil formally joined a new international maritime trade route on Saturday (Aug 30) with the inauguration of a direct link between the Port of Santana, in the northern state of Amapá, and the Port of Gaolan in Zhuhai, China, Agência Gov reported.

Strategic boost for Brazil-China trade

According to Integration Minister Waldez Góes, the new connection offers decisive logistical advantages that will improve Brazil's competitiveness in global markets.

 "This inauguration is the result of the Brazilian government's ongoing cooperation agenda with China. The route brings mutual benefits—facilitating Chinese imports that strengthen local industry while opening new channels for Brazilian agricultural and bioeconomy exports," Góes said. He emphasized that the new route could cut transportation times by up to 30 days and reduce logistics costs by more than 30%.

Expanding Brazil-China cooperation

Fábio Hu, president of the Brazil-China International Development Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the business opportunities the route opens.

 "From today forward, we can close more deals with Amapá. China is ready to cooperate significantly in the state's development, with a focus on sustainability and good trade practices," he said.

Santana Mayor Bala Rocha noted the local impact: "Our port will now be better structured to handle the increased flow of goods. This means more jobs and greater benefits for our community," Rocha said.

Strengthening regional integration

The new shipping line represents a strategic step in deepening Brazil's economic ties with China, its largest trading partner. For Amapá, it raises the state's profile in Amazon and Midwest logistics networks, positioning it as a key link between global trade flows and the region's bioeconomy.

(Reported by Brasil 247 on August 31, 2025)