DP World is expanding its container terminal at Brazil’s Port of Santos, with an investment programme expected to raise annual handling capacity to 2.1 million TEUs by 2028 as the operator prepares for continued growth in Brazilian trade.
The expansion forms part of a BRL 1.6 billion investment that will increase capacity from 1.7 million TEUs to 2.1 million TEUs. A previous BRL 450 million phase, including a 190-metre quay extension, is scheduled to raise capacity to 1.7 million TEUs by the end of 2026.
The next phase includes construction of a new berth, expansion of the container yard, upgraded gates and inspection areas, and additional reefer infrastructure. DP World is also adding four quay cranes, 15 rubber-tyred gantry cranes and 40 internal transfer vehicles to support higher volumes and improve terminal efficiency.
The operator has also been investing in equipment electrification. In July, DP World said its Santos modernisation programme would introduce a total of 44 electric internal transfer vehicles, while further quay cranes and RTGs are due to enter service through early 2027.
The capacity expansion comes as DP World strengthens Santos as a major gateway for Brazilian imports and exports. The terminal handled more than 1.25 million TEUs in 2024, a 14% increase from the previous year, according to DP World.
The investment is expected to provide additional capacity for larger vessels and growing container volumes while improving cargo-handling efficiency and supporting Brazil’s international trade flows.