DP World and Hapag-Lloyd renew long-term partnership for another decade at Port of Santos

In a major move reinforcing Brazil’s position in global trade, DP World has renewed its long-term partnership with Hapag-Lloyd, one of the world’s largest shipping lines, for another decade at its multipurpose terminal in the Port of Santos. Originally launched in 2014, the renewed contract ensures continued collaboration in container-handling operations and underlines both companies’ commitment to advancing Brazil’s logistics competitiveness and maritime infrastructure.
Expanding Capacity to Meet Growing Trade Demands
The renewal coincides with DP World’s ambitious terminal expansion project at Santos, which aims to extend the quay to 1,290 meters and boost annual handling capacity to 1.7 million TEUs by 2026. This development will enable DP World to accommodate larger vessels and introduce enhanced service capabilities for major customers like Hapag-Lloyd.
Driving Integrated Logistics Growth Across Brazil
Beyond terminal operations, DP World has been significantly broadening its footprint across Brazil. Since 2024, the company has:
Opened multiple freight forwarding offices nationwide
Achieved IATA certification for its growing air freight services
Partnered with Rumo, Brazil’s largest railway operator, to develop a new terminal adding 12.5 million tons of grain and fertilizer handling capacity
These strategic investments form part of DP World’s mission to deliver end-to-end logistics solutions, seamlessly connecting maritime, road, rail, and air networks across the region.
Strengthening Global Supply Chains and Customer Reliability
For Hapag-Lloyd, this renewed agreement ensures long-term operational stability and greater access to DP World’s expanding infrastructure at Santos one of Latin America’s most crucial logistics hubs. The partnership promises to improve efficiency, predictability, and service quality for global shipping customers.
Leadership Statements Reflect Strong Commitment
Fabio Siccherino, CEO of DP World in Brazil, stated:
“This renewal with Hapag-Lloyd highlights the strength of our partnership and the critical role Santos plays as a gateway for Brazilian trade. With the expansion of our quay and investments in new equipment, DP World is ensuring we can meet growing demand while delivering the reliability, efficiency, and sustainability that global shipping lines and Brazilian exporters require.”
Luigi Ferrini, Senior Vice President – Area Brazil, Hapag-Lloyd, added:
“This long-term agreement with DP World reinforces our commitment to the Brazilian market particularly in such an important location as Santos. It also strengthens our global partnership with DP World. We are confident this collaboration will bring significant benefits to our customers and further support our Quality Number One strategy.”
A Record-Breaking Year and Future Prospects
In 2024, DP World handled a record 1.25 million TEUs at the Port of Santos a 14% year-over-year increase driven by expanding container services and surging trade volumes. The company’s investments in Brazil form a key part of its broader Latin American growth strategy, with active projects underway in Ecuador, Peru, Chile, and the Dominican Republic.
Conclusion
The decade-long renewal between DP World and Hapag-Lloyd not only strengthens Brazil’s logistics ecosystem but also reaffirms both companies’ commitment to supporting sustainable, efficient, and resilient global trade. As DP World’s expansion projects take shape, the Port of Santos is set to play an even greater role in connecting South America with the world.