$164 Million at Stake as Brazil's Tapajós Dredging Dispute Rages On
A dispute over dredging in Brazil's Tapajós River has put $164 million (850 million reais) at risk, according to MoveInfra, an association representing six infrastructure companies.
The issue is expected to disrupt exports of 3-5 million metric tons of soybeans and other grains for three to four months during the Amazon dry season, which runs from October through February.
During this time, barge traffic would be replaced by trucks, adding $29 to $48 per metric ton (150 to 250 reais) to freight costs. Heavier road traffic could also delay vessel loadings and expose exporters to demurrage charges.
The dispute pits Indigenous communities against transport companies over a maintenance-dredging project that has stalled following a federal government decision.