On October 1, 2025, the National Energy Policy Council (CNPE) approved new resolutions setting minimum local content percentages for maritime support vessels and tankers operating in Brazil. Maritime support vessels constructed in Brazil are now required to have a minimum global local content index of 60%. Additionally, tankers over 15,000 gross tons (GT) used for transporting oil and derivatives, as well as gas carriers operating in cabotage, must meet a minimum local content index of 50%.
For offshore support vessels, at least 50% of the local content must come from two of the following three investment categories: engineering; machinery, equipment, and materials; and construction and assembly. An exception is made for innovative vessels, such as those with plug-in hybrid propulsion or equivalent sustainable technologies, which are required to have a minimum global local content index of 50% and at least 40% in two of the three investment categories.
The local content proportion will be evaluated based on the value of goods produced and services rendered in Brazil relative to the total price of each vessel. The National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Biofuels (ANP) is responsible for monitoring compliance with these requirements and reporting the results to the Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce, and Services (MDIC) at each stage of construction.
Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira, emphasized that these measures aim to incentivize the Brazilian shipbuilding industry, generate skilled employment, and promote technological advancements in the sector. He described the initiative as a strategic step to stimulate innovation and ensure the country is prepared to meet current demands and future challenges related to energy transition and sustainability.
Photo: Canva
