Port of Sao Luis Authorized to Export Brazilian Corn to China

The northeastern Brazilian Port of Sao Luis is the latest port in Brazil authorized to export corn to China. Prior to 2022, Brazil only exported small amounts of corn to China, but that changed when the war in Ukraine disrupted grain exports from the region. The Sao Luis Port Terminal (TPSL) has now become a strategic link in Brazil’s logistical chain. The achievement reflects not only the adherence to the strict phytosanitary protocols required by China, but also the growth potential of the Northern Arc of ports (Amapá, Amazonas, Maranhão, Pará and Rondônia) as a strategic route for national exports.

The Northern Arc of ports, which did not export grain to the Chinese market before 2023, has increased its importance in Brazilian exports. The Northern Arc ports exported 3.6 million tons of corn in 2023 and 2.2 million in 2024. The market share of the Northern Arc ports practically doubled, from 23% in 2023 to 44% in 2024. This percentage is expected to increase even more in 2025 with the authorization of the Port of Sao Luis.

With this new approval, Brazil reinforces its position as China’s strategic partner in the supply of corn. TPSL is designed to meet not only the current demands, but also to explore new opportunities in the international grain market. In addition to corn, the terminal has a license to export soybeans to China as well. The Port of Santos in southeastern Brazil has also been authorized to export corn to China.

The deep-water ocean Port of Sao Luis is already a major exporter of iron ore and has recently expanded to include grain exports. This port services the expanding agricultural production in northeastern Brazil.

Tags: corn, export, grain, Brazil, Northern Arc, Port of Sao Luis, China