The Unsung Hero of Global Trade: Brazil’s Cellulose Powerhouse

When you think of Brazil, your mind might wander to samba, soccer, or the Amazon rainforest. But here’s a fun fact to shake things up: Brazil is also a global powerhouse in cellulose production. And at the heart of this booming industry is DP World Brazil, quietly (but mightily) revolutionizing how cellulose gets from Brazil to the rest of the world.

What’s the big deal about cellulose?

Cellulose is the unsung hero of countless everyday products, from paper and packaging to hygiene items and even some bio-based materials. As the world increasingly looks to sustainable alternatives to plastics, cellulose demand has skyrocketed. Lucky for us, Brazil has perfected the art of eucalyptus cultivation, making it the world’s largest exporter of this versatile raw material.

But growing the stuff is just one part of the equation.

Moving millions of tons of it efficiently, sustainably, and on time? That’s where DP World port facility based in the port of Santos steps in.

Produced by Suzano, a global leader in pulp production, the material is part of a longstanding partnership with DP World. In 2018, DP World and Suzano signed a long-term agreement for storage, handling, and transportation services at the Port of Santos.

The engine behind the operation

DP World’s cellulose operations in Santos are nothing short of impressive. Picture this: a 50,000-square-meter warehouse, a railway branch connecting directly to the terminal, an overpass linking the warehouse to the port’s berthing area, and a wharf expansion that can dock two additional vessels. This infrastructure is designed to handle a jaw-dropping of over than 5 million tons of cellulose annually.

The Port of Santos, the largest in Latin America is a key gateway for Brazil's vast agricultural exports, particularly to Asia and the Middle East, Santos plays a pivotal role in global food distribution.

By integrating rail transport directly into its operations, DP World in Brazil has also managed to cut road congestion and significantly reduce its environmental footprint. It’s a win for logistics and for the planet — a rare feat in today’s world of high-volume trade.

Why it matters

Let’s talk efficiency. DP World in Santos has transformed cellulose logistics into a finely tuned operation. The expanded infrastructure ensures faster loading and unloading, streamlined storage, and minimized handling times. This means quicker turnaround for exports and fewer headaches for everyone involved in the supply chain.

And it’s not just about speed — sustainability is baked into the process. By prioritizing rail over trucks, DP World is championing greener logistics. Add to that their commitment to cutting-edge technology, and you’ve got a blueprint for how ports should operate in the 21st century.

Global reach, local impact

The cellulose handled at DP World doesn’t just stay in Brazil; it’s shipped to markets across Asia, Europe, and North America. The terminal’s strategic location near Brazil’s main eucalyptus-producing regions means it’s perfectly positioned to meet global demand.

But this isn’t just about moving goods. It’s about creating meaningful impact — both globally and locally. DP World’s investments in infrastructure and sustainability are helping to solidify Brazil’s position as a leader in the cellulose trade while supporting local economies and communities.

Want to see it in action?

If you’re curious about how this all comes together, don’t just take our word for it. Check out the video above, showcasing DP World Santos’ cellulose operations and see the magic in motion. For more information, head over to their official site for all the details: DP World Santos Cellulose Operations.

Brazil’s cellulose story is one of innovation, sustainability, and global impact. And DP World Santos is making sure it’s told right — one shipment at a time.