Brazil’s maritime industries seek lower costs to improve competitivenessBrazil’s maritime industries seek lower costs to improve competitiveness

Despite rains in Rio de Janeiro, the attendance remained high both for the conference and for the exibition.

Maritime sector executives believe that Brazil’s maritime industry would be more competitive if the federal government and states revise some technical standards and reduce taxes, along with shipyard and port fees. The president of the Brazilian Association of Construction Engineering Onshore, Offshore and Naval (Abecoon), Maurício Almeida, points out that the cost of Brazilian shipbuilding is still higher than other countries. "I think it is unfair for Brazilian professionals when we are compared to countries that do not have this amount of taxes and many NRs (regulatory standards).

“If we withdraw taxes and fees and reduce the number of NRs, our industry can return to being one of the best in the world" Almeida said.

Many exibitors at the show believe that the crisis is temporary and that in the coming years, the shipping and shipbuilding industries will resume their growth cycle. The consensus among visitors is that Marintec South America 2016 is a strategic event where potential partners can be found, and where expanding business possibilities becomes reality.

Training is also being offered during the event. Classification society RINA is offering free classification training during Marintec South America and the first two days saw lines formed by visitors anxious to participate.

. "We are participating in the fair to plant a seed for the future. When the crisis is over, we will be even more firm and strong, "said Antonino Italian, ceo and president of the Marine Office, technology manufacturer for navigation.

The second day of the show also offered insight on how to enter the Brazilian maritime market , an overview of the current state of the local shipbuilding industry and marine transport, an indepth look a financing possibilities, Brazilian Navy requirements from the industry, among a string of technical innovation presentations.

Marintec South America runs until Wednesday, 21 September at the SulAmérica Convention Center in Rio de Janeiro, bringing together more than 380 brands, including shipowners, shipyards, manufacturers, and national and international suppliers.