Santa Catarina’s Ports: Itajaí, Navegantes, Itapoá, and São Francisco do Sul as Global Gateways

Santa Catarina continues to solidify its position as a strategic logistics hub in South America. In 2024, the state’s port complex handled over 60 million tonnes of cargo, fueled by the strength of domestic industry and growing international trade flows.

Four ports form the backbone of this structure: Itajaí, Navegantes, Itapoá, and São Francisco do Sul. Each plays a distinct role in Santa Catarina’s diversified logistics ecosystem, supported by targeted investments and growing international relevance.

🚢Itajaí: Strategic Location, Ongoing Recovery

Traditionally recognized for its container handling and frozen goods exports, the Port of Itajaí has faced significant operational and institutional challenges in recent years. Although it is no longer among Brazil’s leading container ports, Itajaí is showing signs of gradual recovery. In the first half of 2025, the port generated R$ 89.8 million in revenue, already exceeding its total for the entire year of 2024. Certain cargo segments recorded growth of more than 1,600% compared to the same period the previous year, highlighting a potential rebound. While structural and administrative hurdles persist, Itajaí’s strategic location and core infrastructure continue to support its relevance within southern Brazil’s logistics network.

⚓ Navegantes: Efficient and Consistent

Just across the river, Portonave (Navegantes) has emerged as one of the most efficient container terminals in the country. In 2024, it handled approximately 1.3 million TEUs, marking it as the third-largest container terminal in Brazil, behind only Santos and Paranaguá. Known for its operational reliability and modern infrastructure, Portonave continues to invest in capacity, including a R$ 1 billion expansion to extend its quay and improve efficiency. Its strategic position and consistent performance make it a preferred choice for many exporters and importers.

(Foto via Freepik)

⚙️São Francisco do Sul: Bulk Cargo Anchor with International Support

With over 17 million tonnes handled in 2024, São Francisco do Sul remains a national benchmark for solid bulk cargo, including soybeans, fertilizers, and iron ore. It also plays a key role in handling breakbulk shipments, such as machinery, steel, and wood products. The port’s integration with Brazil’s rail network provides a significant logistical advantage for agribusiness and industrial corridors.

In June 2025, the Government of Santa Catarina signed a strategic agreement with Japanese trading giant Marubeni Corporation to boost port development. The partnership will support long-term investments in infrastructure, cargo handling capacity, and energy transition, reinforcing São Francisco do Sul’s role as a key export hub for agricultural and industrial commodities. Combined with recent dredging and terminal upgrades, this international collaboration positions the port for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

📦Itapoá: Efficiency and Technology in Harmony

Porto Itapoá stands out for its technological innovation and operational agility. In 2024, it moved more than 14 million tonnes, including domestic cargo and transshipment flows from Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. Featuring one of the most automated container terminals in the country, the port combines deepwater access, real-time cargo tracking, and digitally integrated customs processes, making it an ideal gateway for high-value, time-sensitive, and e-commerce shipments.

Simplifying Trade Through Santa Catarina’s Ports

FORVM helps your business move faster and smarter through Santa Catarina’s ports. With streamlined customs, secure warehousing, and flexible transport options, we turn world-class port infrastructure into real trade advantages.

Let’s explore how Santa Catarina can power your logistics strategy. Contact FORVM today.