China to Brazil New Shipping Route Cuts Delivery Time by 50%

Recently, according to international media reports, a newly launched shipping route connecting China to Brazil's northeastern state of Ceará is expected to significantly improve Brazil's foreign trade logistics and establish Ceará as a crucial logistics hub linking China and Brazil.

This new route, named "Santana Service" (Serviço Santana), directly connects China with Pecém Port, located in Fortaleza, the capital city of Ceará. Transit times will be dramatically reduced from the current 60 days down to just 30 days—a 50% reduction in transit time—which will greatly enhance logistics efficiency and lower logistics costs. This development is particularly significant for cross-border e-commerce platforms like Shein, Shopee, and AliExpress, as reduced shipping costs and faster delivery times will strengthen their competitive edge in the Brazilian market.

The new route is jointly operated by global shipping giants MSC and APM Terminals, establishing a direct connection between Asia and Pecém Port through the Santana Service. It marks the first time Asian ships will arrive directly at Pecém Port as their initial destination in Brazil. Previously, goods shipped from China typically transited through the Port of Santos in São Paulo State before reaching northeastern Brazil. Now, shipments can reach Ceará directly, significantly reducing logistical steps and transport times.

Specifically, the route begins from Mundra Port in India, passes through Singapore, enters major Chinese ports such as Yantian, Ningbo, Shanghai, and Qingdao, continues to Busan in South Korea, then crosses the Pacific Ocean and the Panama Canal, stopping at Cristobal Port in Panama and Caucedo Port in the Dominican Republic before finally arriving at Pecém Port in Brazil. The entire transit period will now take approximately 30 days. For e-commerce businesses, this improvement not only boosts logistics efficiency but also responds to consumer expectations for quicker delivery.

The substantial reduction in shipping time will enhance Ceará's appeal in global trade. With the inauguration of this new route, cargo volumes between Asia and Ceará are expected to grow by approximately 20%. Although product prices might not immediately decrease, enhanced operational efficiency will reduce warehousing and delivery costs for e-commerce platforms. Reducing transit time by 50% will likely cut port operating costs by about 20%, significantly benefiting importers—particularly those selling products requiring swift deliveries.

While this new route will not alter export routes (exports will continue via the traditional route: Pecém Port—Suape Port in Pernambuco State—Salvador Port in Bahia State—Santos Port), imports will experience substantial changes. Popular Chinese goods such as electronics, home appliances, and textiles will arrive faster in Ceará and will be distributed more efficiently throughout Brazil. Ceará's import volume is expected to increase by up to 20% following the launch of this new service, enhancing logistics efficiency and optimizing the entire import process.

In addition to boosting imports, this new route also opens new opportunities for local exports. Regional specialties from northeastern Brazil, such as cashew nuts, carnauba wax, and footwear, will enter Asian markets including China, Japan, and South Korea more quickly. This will help local businesses expand their exports and increase their reach to a market of over 2 billion people across Asia.

According to plans, Pecém Port expects to receive at least 1,200 containers weekly, increasing the port's cargo handling volume by around 10% and injecting new momentum into the local economy. The new shipping route will promote export diversification, enabling local companies to access Asian markets more rapidly, while also facilitating imports of machinery and production materials to support manufacturing industries.

The new route will also drive local employment growth, creating jobs in port operations, logistics, and foreign trade due to increased cargo volumes, thus raising the income levels of residents. Moreover, Ceará's port connectivity and international competitiveness will improve, attracting further investments into the region. By strengthening connections with Asian markets, Ceará is poised to consolidate its position as a key logistics hub in Brazil, becoming an essential node in the national logistics network.

If you're looking to ship products swiftly and reliably from China to Brazil's Pecém Port, Forest Shipping offers specialized logistics services tailored to your needs. As an experienced international freight forwarder, Forest Shipping ensures efficient handling, competitive pricing, and streamlined processes to help your business take advantage of the newly opened Santana Service. Trust Forest Shipping to enhance your logistics experience and connect seamlessly to the Brazilian market.