Posted on September 21, 2026
By Carla Teles
The shipbuilding industry in Niterói is trying to turn years of recession into a new phase of investments, production, and jobs. This strategy involves deepening the São Lourenço Canal, revitalizing existing shipyards, and strengthening ties with Petrobras and Transpetro to compete for new projects related to the oil, gas, and offshore sectors.
According to a report from A Seguir: Niterói, published on September 15, 2026, and updated on the 16th, representatives from the city, both state-owned companies, and the shipbuilding sector gathered to discuss the revival of activity and potential new projects in Rio de Janeiro. The meeting took place as the city prepares for the second phase of dredging the canal.
Niterói Tries to Reclaim Lost Ground in the Shipbuilding Industry
The meeting took place at Petrobras headquarters and included Mayor Rodrigo Neves, the president of the state-owned company, Magda Chambriard, the president of Transpetro, Sergio Bacci, representatives from the businesses, and members of the Niterói naval cluster.
This movement aims to leverage existing infrastructure in the city, consisting of shipyards, terminals, offshore support bases, logistics companies, suppliers, and specialized services. The city aims to convert this existing capacity into new investments, contracts, and jobs.
São Lourenço Canal Received R$ 162.5 Million
One of the main fronts of this strategy is the São Lourenço Canal. According to sources, approximately R$ 162.5 million in municipal resources have already been earmarked for the intervention, which is deemed essential to improve access to industrial and port areas.
