In a recent auction held by the Brazilian federal government, just over R$ 60,000 was raised through the leasing of three port terminals located in Amapá, Pernambuco, and Rio Grande do Sul. The auction took place on Thursday afternoon at B3, São Paulo's Stock Exchange, but saw minimal competition, particularly for the terminal in Amapá, which was leased for just R$ 2 — the only bid submitted. Each auction had a minimum bid set at R$ 1, but the lack of interest raises questions about the attractiveness and potential of these port facilities.

The Amapá terminal, identified as MCP01 at the port of Santana, will see an estimated investment of R$ 150.2 million and is set to be operated through a 25-year contract. This facility is intended to support the export of agricultural products, particularly grains and wood chips, which are pivotal for the regional economy. The auction's outcome underscores the challenges faced by the Lula administration in attracting significant private investment in infrastructure, especially amid economic uncertainties.

Additionally, the ANTAQ (National Agency for Waterway Transportation) played a crucial role by overturning a judicial decision that had previously suspended the auction. Earlier in the week, a federal court had temporarily halted the bidding process following a request from the company Rocha Granéis, indicating the legal complexities involved in port operations and potential competition for the lease. The fragmented interest observed at the auction may reflect broader issues related to investment confidence in Brazil’s port infrastructure and efficiency in logistics that could affect future economic growth in the region.