Tubarão Gains, Ponta da Madeira Retreats: Brazil’s Iron Ore Freight Outlook
Brazilian iron ore exports have diverged across major loading systems in 2026. Tubarão has recorded stronger China-bound shipments, while Ponta da Madeira (PDM) has declined amid weaker output at Vale’s Northern System. The difference matters for freight, but cargo growth alone does not establish additional spot Capesize demand: vessel size, contractual coverage and the timing ...
Brazilian iron ore exports have shown divergent trends across major loading systems in 2026, with Tubarão recording stronger China-bound shipments while Ponta da Madeira (PDM) has declined amid weaker output at Vale’s Northern System. The difference in performance matters for freight, but cargo growth alone does not establish additional spot Capesize demand.
Tubarão’s estimated China-bound shipments increased by 6.59 Mt to 40.07 Mt in January–September 2026, up 20% year on year, while PDM moved in the opposite direction, losing 9.90 Mt to 78.80 Mt (−11%). The contrasting export performance of Vale’s Southeastern and Northern Systems highlights the uneven strength of Brazil’s China trade across its export corridors.
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