Historic flooding disrupts access to key Brazilian soy port

Freight costs are increasing out of one of Brazil’s major southern ports due to the “biblical flooding”, obscuring rail and road passages to and from Rio Grande Do Sul.

The torrential flooding in South America could soon disrupt exports from Brazil’s fourth-largest soybean port in Rio Grande Do Sul as floodwaters spill over into roadways and rail routes linked to the major Brazilian grain port.

Loaded grain trucks must travel an extra 250 miles per trip to circumvent blockades and reach the Rio Grande port. That, of course, is causing delays as well as increasing freight costs.

Brazilian grain traders exported more than 10 million tons of soybeans and 3 million tons of soy meals out of Rio Grande Do Sul in 2023.

Brazil’s southernmost state has received more than 31 inches of rain in a week, which has led to the declaration of a public emergency and the deaths of at least 100 people. 128 are still missing. More rain is in the forecast through the first half of May.

Related Stories
Brazil’s ethanol growth could shift the corn trade.
Tasting events in Ghana highlight potential for new export markets
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joins us to discuss Canada’s advisory committee and the upcoming USMCA review and its potential impact on agriculture.
A prolonged Iran ceasefire offers limited relief as fertilizer concerns persist, prompting U.S. policy shifts and driving farmers to reconsider crop acreage.
U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss rising input costs, fertilizer transparency efforts, and the role of trade in supporting farmer profitability.
Strong demand for U.S. beef in Mexico is boosting exports, with buyers seeking both variety meats and high-quality cuts like Prime and Choice ribeye.