Rumo S.A. and DP World, a global leader in supply chain solutions, have signed an agreement to build a new port terminal for grains and fertilizers at the Port of Santos, Brazil. This collaborative venture aims to enhance the port's handling capacity by up to 12.5 million tons per year ? comprising 9 million tons of grains and 3.5 million tons of fertilizers ?

boosting the nation's agricultural competitiveness over the long term. The project will be installed in DP World's private-use terminal on the port?s left bank. The agreement provides for an initial operating period of 30 years, with an option for extension subject to DP World approval.

Rumo has committed an estimated investment of USD 500 million (BRL 2.5 billion) towards the project, sourced from a mix of its own capital, borrowings and potential strategic partnerships, to finance the construction. Construction is expected to span 30 months, pending the fulfillment of precedent conditions inherent to this type of transaction, including relevant government approvals. DP World will oversee the ensuing port operations, including cargo movement, solidifying its position as Brazil?s premier multipurpose port operator.

This responsibility will require managing a wide range of operations simultaneously, from containers and cellulose to grains and fertilizers.