Electrified Equipment Boosts APM Terminals Suape
APM Terminals Suape has taken a significant leap towards becoming Latin America’s first fully electrified port facility with the arrival of 28 fully electrified equipment units. Delivered by SANY at an investment of USD 47 million, this milestone marks the beginning of the technical phases necessary for operations at the Governador Eraldo Gueiros Industrial and Port Complex in Pernambuco. With a total investment of USD 350 million, the terminal’s construction is nearing completion, paving the way for enhanced regional trade and job creation.
Transforming Trade and Job Opportunities
The new terminal at APM Terminals Suape is set to revolutionize trade for exporters in the region. By improving berth windows and increasing vessel calls, the facility will enhance connectivity for Northeast Brazil, making it easier for local businesses to access global markets. This development is expected to attract new direct shipping services to the Far East and Europe, ultimately reducing costs for imported goods and components.
With the capacity to handle up to 400,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), the terminal will increase the port complex’s capacity by 55%. This expansion is anticipated to stimulate regional economic activity and create thousands of jobs. Already, the project has generated over 2,000 direct jobs, along with numerous indirect employment opportunities. Daniel Rose, Managing Director of APM Terminals Suape and Pecém, emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, “This is a crucial milestone for the project, which now enters the final stage of building the terminal’s main infrastructure.” Operations are expected to commence in the second half of 2026, further solidifying the terminal’s role in enhancing the logistics competitiveness of Pernambuco and the Northeast region.
Innovative Electrification and Safety Features
A standout feature of the new equipment at APM Terminals Suape is its full electrification, which eliminates reliance on fossil fuels and aligns with the company’s global decarbonization goals. The terminal will utilize two ship-to-shore (STS) cranes with a 70-meter outreach, capable of handling vessels over 366 meters long, the largest on Brazil’s coast. Additionally, seven rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes will facilitate efficient container handling.
These cranes will be operated remotely from dedicated control rooms, enhancing safety and accessibility for operators, including those with reduced mobility. This innovative approach not only improves ergonomics but also eliminates the need for physical access via stairs or lifts. The equipment is equipped with advanced technology to enhance safety and efficiency, including precision systems that aid in accurate movements and collision prevention. The fleet also includes two reach stackers, a 16-tonne forklift, two empty-container forklifts, and 14 terminal tractors, all designed to support the terminal’s operational goals.
