A transformative initiative is underway to forge a green shipping corridor linking the Port of Açu in Brazil with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium. This consortium, facilitated by the Global Maritime Forum and RMI, aims to catalyze the production and transport of e-fuels, marking a significant leap towards sustainable maritime practices.
The consortium includes key players such as HIF Global, Fuella, NYK Line, Höegh Autoliners, and Wallenius Wilhelmsen, alongside port officials from both locations. Their focus is to evaluate existing infrastructure, vessels, and business models, ultimately crafting a comprehensive roadmap to facilitate the transport of zero-carbon fuels produced in Açu. Notable examples of these fuels include e-ammonia and e-methanol.
The transport in this corridor is anticipated to be powered by the same zero- or near-zero-emission fuels that the consortium endorses. This initiative builds on a pre-feasibility study, created by RMI and the Global Maritime Forum, which was published in November 2025, highlighting the substantial potential for e-fuel production and logistics.
According to the findings from the study, the cost of e-fuel production at Açu is projected to be competitive, aided by Brazilian policies that promote green hydrogen production. The country’s predominantly renewable electricity grid, combined with its rich array of renewable energy sources and relatively low cost of capital, makes it a prime candidate for e-fuel exports.
A subsequent report issued in 2024, titled “Oceans of Opportunity,” further endorsed the Port of Açu as a high-potential hub for e-fuel exports. The collaborative efforts of the Global Maritime Forum and RMI will focus on transforming the Açu-Antwerp corridor into a fully functional green corridor.
Progress has already commenced, transitioning from the pre-feasibility phase into a more detailed feasibility analysis for the corridor. This evaluation is expected to be finalized by the end of the year, with consortium partners convening regularly to ensure ongoing collaboration and advancements in the project.
Eleanor Wells, Senior Project Manager at the Global Maritime Forum, expressed her excitement about the venture: “We’re thrilled to be working with these partners to take these important steps toward Brazil’s e-fuel production and bunkering opportunity while supporting the growing demand for e-fuels in Europe.”