APM Terminals Suape Breaks Ground on Latin America's First Fully Electrified Terminal
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APM Terminals Suape Breaks Ground on Latin America's First Fully Electrified Terminal
Brazil’s APM Terminals Suape has officially begun construction on Latin America’s first fully electrified container terminal at the Governador Eraldo Gueiros Industrial Port Complex (Suape) in Pernambuco State.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on November 22, was attended by key officials and executives, including Silvio Costa Filho, Minister of Ports and Airports; Raquel Lyra, Governor of Pernambuco; Marcio Guiot, President of the Suape Industrial Port Complex; Leo Huisman, Managing Director of APM Terminals Americas; Ricardo Rocha, Managing Director of Maersk for the East Coast of South America; Daniel Rose, Managing Director of APM Terminals Suape and Pecem; and Leonardo Levy, Investments Director for APM Terminals.
“Our goal is to grow Suape by 5% this year, generating more jobs and income for the people of Pernambuco,” said Silvio Costa Filho, Minister of Ports and Airports.
APM Terminals Suape is one of three major global projects underway by the Maersk-owned port operator. With an initial investment of R$1.6 billion (US$280 million), the terminal is set to drive regional development, creating around 300 direct jobs and 2,000 indirect jobs. The project will also strengthen Pernambuco’s connectivity with global ports and introduce sustainable port practices.
“The new terminal will enhance the Port of Suape’s cargo handling capacity, opening up new business opportunities for Pernambuco and increasing export potential. Suape’s prime location and status as one of the largest public ports in Brazil will be further strengthened, positioning it as a leader in the Northeast. This investment will create jobs and contribute to the region’s overall development, aligning with efforts to improve the quality of life for our people,” remarked Governor Raquel Lyra.
Leo Huisman, Managing Director of APM Terminals Americas, noted, “The terminal, set to begin operations in 2026, will expand berthing opportunities for our customers, facilitating new services that link Pernambuco to a wide array of global ports.”
Daniel Rose, Managing Director of APM Terminals Suape and Pecem, highlighted the significance of the project's early stages and upcoming phases. “The first phase included the largest demolition project in Pernambuco, lasting 222 days. Recently, we invested R$241 million (US$42 million) in advanced equipment to support the project’s progress. The next phase will involve selecting contractors for the quay, yard, and building construction. Once operational, the terminal will increase container handling capacity by 55%,” said Rose.
Marcio Guiot, President of the Port of Suape, emphasized the transformative nature of the project: “Suape is ready for a second container terminal. APM Terminals' investment will enhance efficiency, improve competitiveness, and open up new international routes for us. The fully electrified terminal will be a first for Latin America, offering a distinct advantage and aligning with sustainable initiatives designed to expand our activities while safeguarding the environment.”
Source: Container News