With growth above the national average, Navegantes stands out as one of Brazil’s leading logistics hubs, attracting businesses and consolidating its strategic position in the national and international scenario. According to Brain Inteligência Estratégica, Santa Catarina has grown three times more than the national average, and Navegantes leads this progress, with an annual growth rate of 2.8%, surpassing the state average of 1.6% and the national average of 0.5%.
The privileged location of Navegantes is one of the key factors driving its development. Situated on the coast of Santa Catarina, the city has direct access to the BR-101 and BR-470 highways, which connect the country’s main consumer and production centers. Additionally, its proximity to the Port of Itajaí and the Navegantes International Airport ensures multiple transportation options for import and export, facilitating the movement of goods and increasing the competitiveness of businesses established in the region.
The channel access to the ports is another differentiator that elevates the city in the national logistics scenario. The capability to dock large vessels expands port operations and attracts global players, consolidating Navegantes as a key connection point between international and Brazilian markets.
Tax incentives and a favorable environment for the logistics sector
Another attraction is the business-friendly environment, especially for logistics, reinforced by tax incentives. The sector offers an ISS tax rate of just 2%, one of the lowest in Brazil, creating an advantageous scenario for companies looking to optimize operational costs. ‘Navegantes has an extremely favorable business environment with modern and efficient infrastructure. It’s no coincidence it was chosen to host the Navepark Logistics Complex, which provides everything companies need to position themselves in this fertile ground for business,’ highlights Thiago Cabral, CEO of ABC & Embralot.
This competitive environment has attracted companies from various sectors, such as textiles, automotive, and food, which find in the city a strategic point to expand their operations.
Investments in technology and innovation
With an eye on the future, Navegantes is investing in technology and the modernization of its logistics infrastructure. Among ongoing projects, the expansion plan for the Port Complex stands out, including the construction of new refrigerated cargo terminals, increasing capacity for meat and perishable exports — segments that account for 15% of the region’s exports.
Moreover, automation initiatives in port and logistics processes have ensured greater efficiency and cost reduction for companies. ‘The city is becoming a case study in the integration of technology and logistics, offering modern solutions that meet growing market demand,’ says the CEO.
Promising prospects
Currently, Navegantes already accounts for around 25% of port activity in Southern Brazil, and projections indicate growth of 12% by 2025, driven by expanding port operations and attracting new investments.
Companies betting on the region find a unique combination of strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and tax incentives, creating an ideal environment for expansion. Additionally, with the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and improvements in logistics infrastructure, Navegantes is positioning itself as one of Latin America’s leading logistics hubs.
‘With its robust positioning, Navegantes is prepared to lead Brazil’s logistics sector in the coming years, contributing to regional and national development and strengthening its image as a city of the future,’ concludes Thiago Cabral.
The city stands as an example of how investments in infrastructure, innovation, and tax incentives can transform a region into an engine of development, connecting global markets to Brazil’s productive heart.
