Coastal shipping in Brazil

history, economic development and the brazilian naval power.

Abstract

This paper focuses on the analysis of coastal shipping (cabotage) and its potential contribution to Brazil's economic development. The research provides a historical overview of the sector, explores its main benefits—among them lower logistical costs—and discusses the need for naval power to protect coastal shipping. In addition, the study identifies several challenges faced by cabotage, such as poor port infrastructure, difficulties in modal integration, complex regulations governing the sector, and high operational costs that increase the expense of operations. The study also evaluates regulatory reform initiatives, such as the "BR do Mar" Law. Recommendations include port modernization, greater integration between transport modes, and the creation of incentives to attract private investment.