TCU Backs Two-Phase Tecon 10 Auction, Affirms Antaq’s Authority

Overview

• In a 6–3 vote, the court approved Antaq’s bifurcated model that bars current Santos terminal operators from the first round and allows their entry only in a second phase with prior divestment if no new entrant bids.
• Revising minister Bruno Dantas recommended extending the initial restriction to ocean carriers to avoid full vertical integration at the port.
• The ruling lets the government finalize the tender notice, setting a mandatory internal rail yard and urging a review of the zero minimum upfront fee.
• Tecon 10 is projected to handle up to 3.5 million TEUs per year—about a 50% capacity boost—with investment estimates ranging from roughly R$5 billion to R$6.45 billion.
• Foreign embassies had pressed for an open contest, and MSC’s terminal arm said it will go to court to seek participation, signaling likely legal challenges.