Brazil’s rise as a critical export hub continues to be exploited by transatlantic drug smuggling networks, using merchant vessels to carry cocaine and other illicit substances.

Smuggling to Europe and Asia has long been linked to the southeastern ports in Brazil. However, in 2024, local correspondent Brazmar reported a rise in cases emerging from the northern and northeast regions.

In the Southeast, smugglers typically hide drugs inside containers or attach them to the vessel’s hull, such as within sea chests. While similar methods are used in the North and Northeast, smugglers there increasingly target larger bulk carriers, often concealing drugs on deck or within void spaces.

Local penalties for drug trafficking range from 5 to 15 years’ imprisonment plus fines. For interstate or transnational activity, sentences increase by one-sixth to two-thirds, with additional charges such as criminal association commonly applied.

For more guidance on security measures that can be taken by vessels calling in ports located in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil read the Brazmar circular here.

The West Africa Gateway

Cocaine from Latin America is increasingly routed to West Africa, where it is staged for onward shipment to Europe. Once the drugs reach West African shores, they are routed toward Europe using a combination of Mediterranean maritime corridors and overland smuggling paths to North African ports.

Correspondent Proinde P&I advise that in late 2025, three bulk carriers arriving in Nigeria from the Port of Santos were found with cocaine hidden among their sugar cargo, leading to vessel detentions and crew arrests.

This incident highlights a potentially growing trend of targeting Brazilian sugar exports to traffic cocaine West Africa. The Port of Santos handles 68% of Brazil’s sugar exports, making it a key route that can be exploited by traffickers.

Read more about this emerging illicit trade route at: https://proinde.com.br/news/the-sour-taste-of-sugar-brazil-west-africa-cocaine-trade/

Source: Authored by Alvin Forster, Senior Loss Prevention Executive (NorthStandard)