On September 5, 2024, key stakeholders from Brazil and Norway gathered at the Norwegian Embassy in Brasília for a working lunch organized by ABRAN and Team Norway to advance discussions on cooperation for decarbonizing the maritime and port sectors. The meeting brought together Brazilian government representatives, including the Ministry of Ports and Airports (MPOR), ANTAQ, and the Brazilian Navy, alongside ABRAN´s members and representatives from Team Norway.
The event, hosted by Norwegian Ambassador Odd Magne Ruud, with opening words from Felipe Meira, President of ABRAN, provided a platform for open discussions on how both countries could enhance collaboration in achieving sustainable goals for the maritime industry. Presentations were held by MPOR Executive Secretary Mariana Pescatori, ANTAQ General Director Eduardo Nery, ABRAN Executive Director Ricardo Fernandes, Innovation Norway Director Thomas Conradi Granli and were focused on the Policies and Initiatives of Brazil to Increase Activities and Decarbonize the Maritime and Port Industry, ANTAQ’s Role in Regulating and Promoting Sustainable Practices in the Maritime Sector need for clear environmental policies, The Presence of Norwegian Shipowners in Brazil and the Great Potential to Strengthen Collaboration Towards the Green Transition and Expertise of the Norwegian Maritime Sector and Opportunities to Increase Cooperation and Activities in Brazil.
Discussions were also focused on reflections on the potential benefits of creating a sustainability pact between the government and key industry players, eventually prioritizing additional funding for companies committed to reducing emissions. ANTAQ’s role as the regulatory agency of the sector was also discussed and presented successful initiatives, such as the IDA – Environmental Performance Index.
Additionally, ongoing studies to assess the market for green fuels commissioned by the National Energy Policy Council (CNPE) and the potential for offshore wind energy and green hydrogen projects were discussed as promising future developments.
ABRAN’s Executive Director, Ricardo Fernandes, underscored the presence of Norwegian shipowners in Brazil and the vast potential for increased cooperation in the green transition. Success stories, such as the electrification of CBO’s vessels were shared as examples of Brazil’s progress in sustainable maritime practices.
This event marks a significant step towards deepening Brazil-Norway collaboration in driving sustainability within the maritime and port industries. ABRAN remains committed to supporting these initiatives and promoting a green future for the sector.