Hapag-Lloyd container terminal expansion took a major step forward as Hanseatic Global Terminals (HGT), a terminal operating subsidiary of the Hapag-Lloyd Group, acquired a 50% stake in Imetame Logística Porto (ILP) through a newly signed agreement with Brazil’s Imetame Group. The partnership marks a significant step in the development of a new container terminal on Brazil’s eastern coast, strengthening the region’s port infrastructure and global trade connectivity.
The financial value of the transaction has not been disclosed.
1. A New Hapag-Lloyd Container Terminal on Brazil’s East Coast
Under the agreement, the two companies will jointly develop and operate a new container terminal named Hanseatic Global Terminals Aracruz. The facility will function as both a modern transshipment hub and an import-export gateway, serving domestic and international trade flows.
Located in Aracruz, Espírito Santo, the terminal is designed to handle up to 1.2 million TEUs annually. It will feature a 750-meter-long quay, advanced container-handling systems, and a 17-meter-deep navigation channel, enabling the accommodation of large container vessels.
This new terminal is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency while improving Brazil’s access to major global shipping routes.
2. Strengthening Latin America’s Port Infrastructure
According to Dheeraj Bhatia, CEO of Hanseatic Global Terminals, Latin America remains a strategic growth market for both HGT and its parent company, Hapag-Lloyd. The investment in Aracruz aligns with the company’s broader goal of expanding its global terminal portfolio while addressing capacity constraints in high-growth regions.
Bhatia emphasized that the new port will contribute to Brazil’s commercial infrastructure by offering exporters and importers more direct access to international markets. Compared to traditional ports, Aracruz benefits from its proximity to key consumer markets and major shipping lanes, making it a highly competitive logistics gateway.
This strategic location is expected to improve trade efficiency for several export-oriented states across the country.
3. Local Economic Impact and Long-Term Vision
Etore Selvatici Cavallieri, President of the Imetame Group, highlighted HGT’s proven expertise in terminal operations, noting that the company brings the technical and operational capabilities needed to deliver high-performance port services.
He added that the project will not only elevate Brazil’s position in global trade networks but also generate new employment opportunities and stimulate the growth of local businesses.
4. About Hanseatic Global Terminals
Founded in 2023, Hanseatic Global Terminals (HGT) is the global terminal and infrastructure arm of the Hapag-Lloyd Group. Headquartered in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, HGT currently manages investments and operations in over 20 container terminals across 11-12 countries in Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa.
The company plans to expand its footprint to more than 30 ports by 2030, focusing on the development of strategically located container terminals that enhance logistics efficiency and strengthen global maritime connectivity.
5. What International Shippers Should Know About the New Hapag-Lloyd Container Terminal
For freight forwarders and cargo owners moving goods between Asia, Europe, and South America, this Hapag-Lloyd container terminal adds a new routing option through Brazil’s east coast rather than relying solely on established southern hubs. Its deep-water channel and long quay mean it can accommodate larger vessels, which typically translates into more direct services and fewer transshipment stops for exporters shipping machinery, agricultural products, or consumer goods.
Companies already working with logistics partners in fast-growing port markets — including Vietnam’s own Cai Mep – Thi Vai deep-water port — will recognize the pattern: new capacity at a strategically located terminal usually leads to lower per-container costs and shorter transit times once operations ramp up. Shippers planning routes through Aracruz should track the facility’s opening timeline and initial service announcements from Hapag-Lloyd and its terminal operating arm.
6. Frequently Asked Questions About the Hapag-Lloyd Container Terminal in Brazil
Who operates the new terminal in Aracruz? The terminal is jointly developed by Hanseatic Global Terminals (HGT), the Hapag-Lloyd Group’s terminal arm, and Brazil’s Imetame Group through their new joint venture, Imetame Logística Porto.
How much cargo can the facility handle? This Hapag-Lloyd container terminal is designed for up to 1.2 million TEUs per year, supported by a 750-meter quay and a 17-meter-deep navigation channel capable of receiving large container vessels.
Why does this matter for international trade? A new deep-water gateway on Brazil’s east coast gives exporters and importers more direct access to global shipping lanes, reducing reliance on congested ports and improving trade efficiency for export-oriented regions of the country.
