In a global context marked by intense turbulence, the port sector faced unexpected challenges in early 2023, driven by the development of global conflicts. Surprisingly, Brazil stood out in a specific region, recording a notable increase in cargo movement.
The current scenario is shaped by continuous changes that demand constant adaptation. Privatizations, legislative updates, and tax impacts, such as those derived from Law No. 12,815/2013, directly influence the sector.
Therefore, innovation, technological integration, and sustainability become vital elements to ensure resilience and growth.
Current Situation:
Despite the challenging start on the international stage, especially with conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and restrictive measures in Europe, the port sector recovered in Brazil.
Surprisingly, the southern region stood out in cargo movement, registering a 1.2% increase compared to the previous year, according to ANTAQ data.
Even in the face of surprises, such as the conflict in Gaza and the expectation of privatizing the Port of Santos, the port sector faces persistent challenges.
Challenges:
The port sector is the true vanguard of international trade, handling about 90% of global transportation. In addition to positive performance, constant renewal and the pursuit of differentiators are essential, especially considering that 60% of national cargo is transported by this mode.
Accessibility and intermodality become crucial, driving innovative initiatives, even in the face of deficits in port infrastructure and a shortage of suppliers.
Political and Economic Changes:
The complex scenario of the port sector is sensitive to political and economic changes that can redefine regulatory and commercial foundations, impacting port logistics. Economic fluctuations shape demand, affect investments, and challenge operational stability.
Adaptability, investment in innovative technologies, and strategic collaborations are essential to navigate the turbulent waters of political and economic changes, sustaining resilience and sustainable growth in the sector.
Taxation:
Law No. 12,815/2013, in its various updates, has brought significant benefits, such as the exemption of capatazias declaration in the Import Declaration. This measure results in positive tax reflections, facilitating and reducing the burden on importers and agents in the logistics chain.
Nevertheless, the need for tax reform persists. However, actions like these demonstrate the federal government’s recognition of the sector’s importance, promoting a positive outlook without negatively affecting investors. More secure measures are expected to be implemented in this regard.
Trends and Projections for the Port Sector:
Experts point to an avalanche of startups and technology logistics companies (logtechs), backed by major corporations like Cubo (Itaú). The goal is to provide integration between solutions and expectations, resulting in tangible benefits for the end customer, such as:
- Intelligent Queue Management
- Cybersecurity
- Autonomous Mobility
- Integrated Urban Mobility
- Predictive Analysis
Predictive analysis stands out as a major trend in the sector, given its efficiency in data management. The collection and analysis of data in this context not only predict demand but optimize operations and inform decisions.
Efficient integration of blockchain, surpassing the old Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), satisfies stakeholders, including port authorities, terminals, tugboats, maritime companies, and cargo agents.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolutionizes information navigation, solving problems and bottlenecks. It optimizes planning and efficient management through algorithms that analyze historical and real-time data, reducing costs, errors, and losses. AI increases security, transparency, and agility, tracking cargo information through advanced features and blockchain. This facilitates customs control, streamlines inspection, increases security, optimizes processes, and reduces bureaucracy.
The Internet of Things (IoT), applied in a versatile way, improves energy and environmental efficiency, offering visibility and integration of operations through sensors on equipment, cargo, and vehicles.
Automation, Integration, and Digitalization are not a threat but a positive disruption. These technologies expand possibilities and facilitate operations securely in port terminals.
Decarbonization and ESG Actions (Environmental, Social, and Governance) are imperative. Companies, aware of the need for planet preservation, seek actions for the environment, sustainability, and renewable energy. Concern for ESG goes beyond the environment, encompassing social and governance aspects.
Despite global turbulence, Brazilian ports have surprised with a significant increase in cargo movement, especially in the southern region. The sector faces persistent challenges, but trends such as technological innovation and sustainability indicate a path of resilience and growth. Adaptation to political and economic changes, coupled with advancements like predictive analysis and artificial intelligence, holds the promise of transforming the sector.
