Chamber of Deputies Approves the Extension of the AFRMM Non-Levy in Cabotage and Inland Navigation
On 08/12/2026, the Plenary of the Chamber of Deputies approved, by 327 votes to 26, the substitute text to Supplementary Bill No. 80/2026. The text extends until 01/08/2032 the non-levy of the Additional Freight Charge for the Renewal of the Merchant Marine (“AFRMM“) in cabotage, inland river and lake navigation whose origin or destination is a port located in the North or Northeast Regions of Brazil.
The non-levy of the AFRMM is provided for in article 17 of Law No. 9,432/1997 and its current term was set by article 24 of Law No. 14,301/2022, which created the Cabotage Transport Incentive Program – BR do Mar Program. The term expires on 01/08/2027.
The matter was sent to the Federal Senate on 08/14/2026, where it proceeds as Supplementary Bill No. 80/2026, and awaits deliberation. Without the extension, the statutory AFRMM rates will again apply to freight on these routes, with a direct effect on waterway transport agreements and on pricing in operations with origin or destination in the North or Northeast Regions.
ANTAQ Strengthens Preventive Measures in Response to Drought Conditions in the Amazon Region
On 08/13/2026, ANTAQ announced a set of preventive measures addressing potential navigation restrictions in the Amazon Region.
Container shipping companies must provide at least 30 days’ prior notice of any proposed Low Water Surcharge (LWS), or Drought Surcharge, including its justification and calculation methodology. Receipt of the notice does not constitute authorization, approval, or acknowledgment that the charge is lawful.
ANTAQ also instructed shipping companies, organized ports, terminals, and other regulated entities to prepare or update their contingency plans for extreme hydrological events. In addition, ANTAQ may prioritize emergency requests involving temporary structures, cargo transshipment, and the chartering of shallow-draft vessels.
