Libra Opens Private Brazilian Container Terminal

The Libra Group, parent company of Nacional Line, has taken the initiative towards easing congestion, improving turnaround times and restructuring activities in the Port of Santos, Brazil, with the opening of a private container terminal Terminal 37. The facility is reportedly the only private marine terminal of any kind at the Port. Libra was awarded the contract to operate the 500,000-sq.-ft.

Terminal 37 for 20 years, with a provision to extend for a second 20- year term. The terminal will be fitted with state-of-the-art equipment and machinery in order to move containers quickly through the Port and beyond. Ultimately, the terminal will have the capacity to handle in excess of 100,000 containers annually.

In an exclusive agreement with the Sao Paulo State Port Authority, Libra, Paulista and Nacional vessels will receive priority berthing to ensure economic and efficient operation. This marks the first phase of the privatization of government- owned port facilities, part of a move that has been legislated by the Brazilian government for the purpose of modernizing its ports.