The year 2025 was marked by significant developments in Foreign Trade, both in the domestic and international scenarios. Extreme weather events, advances in logistics infrastructure, operational records, and changes in the global environment reinforced the need for planning, adaptability, and strategic vision among companies and professionals in the sector. Below are the main topics that impacted Foreign Trade throughout 2025.

Brazilian ports set a historic cargo handling record

In the first half of 2025, Brazilian ports reached a historic milestone, recording strong growth in cargo throughput throughout the year. This increase was driven mainly by the expansion of containerized cargo and the strong performance of exports, consolidating the strategic role of ports in the country’s foreign trade.
These results highlight the importance of port infrastructure for Brazil’s competitiveness and underscore the ongoing need for investment to keep pace with growing demand and reduce logistical bottlenecks.

Reconfiguration of routes and challenges in the international scenario

In 2025, foreign trade was directly affected by an unstable international environment marked by geopolitical tensions, regional conflicts, and restrictions on strategic routes. Key regions for global trade flows, such as the Red Sea and parts of the Middle East and Asia, experienced recurring disruptions, leading to maritime route diversions, longer transit times, and higher logistics costs.
Industry estimates indicated that route diversions increased the average maritime transit time between Asia and Europe by up to 15 days during certain periods of the year, in addition to significant increases in freight and international insurance costs. This situation also directly affected supply chain predictability, requiring constant replanning by importers and exporters.

Climate events and impacts on international logistics

In September, Super Typhoon Ragasa drew global market attention by causing significant impacts on international logistics. The phenomenon affected strategic ports in Asia, resulting in delays, canceled port calls, and the need to reschedule routes.
This scenario highlighted how extreme weather events continue to be a major risk factor for global supply chains, requiring companies to strengthen their response capabilities, contingency planning, and continuous monitoring of the international landscape.

Porto Central advances as a new milestone in national logistics

Another highlight of the year was the progress of Porto Central, a project that represents a new milestone for Brazilian logistics. Located in a strategic region, the development emerges as an alternative to expand the country’s port capacity, attract new investments, and provide greater efficiency for import and export operations. Expectations are that Porto Central will contribute to the decentralization of operations and to strengthening Brazil as a logistics hub in the coming years.

Technology, operational efficiency, and compliance in focus

Market data indicate that companies investing in automation and integrated systems were able to reduce the time spent on operational routines by up to 30%, while also minimizing document inconsistencies and rework throughout the logistics and customs processes.
At the same time, compliance remained a central topic in 2025. Proper tariff classification, adherence to customs requirements, and effective management of operational risks became even more critical amid increased inspections and the growing demand for transparency in operations. This context reinforced the importance of well-structured processes, solid governance, and the use of technology as a key ally to ensure compliance and security in foreign trade operations.

Maringá Airport begins international cargo operations

At the end of November, international cargo operations began at Maringá Airport, marking an important step in strengthening regional foreign trade in 2025. This development expands logistics options, especially for companies seeking greater agility in transporting higher value-added goods.

The year 2025 reinforced that Foreign Trade is a dynamic sector, directly influenced by external factors, logistics infrastructure, and strategic decisions. Planning and adaptability remain essential elements to overcome challenges and seize opportunities in an increasingly competitive market.

Modal Comex thanks its clients, partners, and readers for their trust throughout 2025. We wish you happy holidays and hope that 2026 will be a year of new opportunities, growth, and even more efficient operations for all.