The Union of Cargo Transport and Logistics Companies in Rio Grande do Sul (SETCERGS) recently raised concerns about the effects of the notable decrease in the state’s exports on the logistics and transport sector. This decline, marked especially by reduced demand from important trading partners such as China, the USA, in addition to the economic crisis in Argentina, signals challenging times for the segment.
In the first quarter of 2024, Rio Grande do Sul recorded a 17.21% reduction in exports compared to the same period of the previous year, according to data from the Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services. This decline is the steepest in the last three years, representing a loss of approximately $875 million in international sales.
A Brazilian International Transport Association (ABTI) highlights that this downward trend is also reflected in border operations with Argentina. Statistics reveal significant decreases at the main border crossings, such as in Uruguaiana – Paso de Los Libres/AR, which registered a drop of 16.13%, and in São Borja – Santo Tomé, with a reduction of 8.42%.
Andressa Scapini, vice-president of International Transport, points out that the effects of this downturn are already felt in regional logistics operations. Argentina’s economic situation, which projects a contraction of 2.8% in 2024, has a direct influence on export and transport dynamics, especially in critical sectors such as automotive and agricultural machinery.
Despite these adversities, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) maintains a recovery outlook for 2025, with an expectation of growth of 5%. This suggests that, although the present is full of adjustments and challenges, there is hope for significant improvement in the medium term.
The implications for the road freight transport sector are profound, affecting everything from the frequency of international travel to the demand for logistics services. These changes require strategic adaptation on the part of companies in the sector, which must not only monitor global and regional economic trends, but also seek efficiency and innovation in their operations to mitigate negative impacts.
About SETCERGS
O SETCERG, founded in 1959, continues to be a fundamental voice for the cargo transport and logistics sector in Rio Grande do Sul, representing its members in this period of uncertainty and seeking joint solutions to overcome current challenges. Collaboration and resilience will be essential so that the sector can not only face the current crisis, but also emerge stronger and prepared for future opportunities.
