Petrobras’ P-35 FPSO was scheduled to berth at the former Inhaúma Shipyard, in Rio de Janeiro, on October 19, 2026, marking an important step in the revitalization of a facility that has remained inactive in shipbuilding and repair activities for approximately a decade.
The shipyard is being redeveloped by Clip Offshore, a joint venture involving the Gávea Group and interests associated with the Philippine port operator ICTSI.
The facility is expected to provide offshore maintenance, repair, logistics and potentially dismantling and recycling services.
The P-35, which previously operated in the Marlim field in the Campos Basin, is expected to undergo preservation and maintenance activities. Petrobras has not yet determined whether the unit will ultimately be reused or dismantled.
As of October 19, the available reporting identifies the berthing as scheduled, rather than confirming its completion.
Market Impact
The redevelopment could strengthen Rio de Janeiro’s position as a center for offshore asset management, creating opportunities for:
- vessel maintenance and repair contractors
- offshore engineering and inspection companies
- towing and specialized maritime operators
- port and logistics service providers
- waste-management and recycling companies
The project may also help expand domestic industrial capacity for servicing offshore assets throughout their life cycles.
Legal & Contractual Implications
ANTAQ has granted Clip a special and emergency authorization, valid for up to 180 days, covering the P-35 berthing and decommissioning operation.
However, the authorization does not eliminate the need to comply with requirements imposed by other authorities, including the Brazilian Navy, ANP, the Federal Revenue Service and environmental agencies.
Relevant legal issues include:
- environmental licensing and operational authorizations
- customs and tax treatment of offshore assets
- port and maritime regulatory compliance
- allocation of liability for maintenance and preservation activities
- waste management and environmental responsibility
- contractual arrangements governing potential reuse or dismantling
The distinction between temporary preservation, repurposing and final dismantling is particularly important because each alternative may involve different contractual, environmental and customs consequences.
Photo: Canva
