Transpetro is the logistics division of Brazil's Petrobras. It will launch an auction for four new tanks around 2025. Transpetro's chief Sergio Bacci said that the company hopes to include nine more in its strategic plan from 2026-2030.

Bacci, who spoke at an event to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Brazil's Workers Party on Saturday in Rio de Janeiro, said that the firm expected to launch the tenders for the nine vessels as early as 2026.

He said that the inclusion of the process in Petrobras next strategic plan, which is currently being discussed, is still under discussion.

Bacci stated that firms will have to submit bids guaranteeing at least 40% of parts will come from Brazil.

"We set 40% because we believe this is a realistic number." The tenders form part of ongoing plans for Transpetro to renew its fleet and boost the country's shipping sector. This is a priority according to President Luiz inacio Lula, who attended the event on Sunday. Transpetro announced this week it would launch a tender to purchase eight gas tanks. On Monday, a shipyard located in Rio Grande do Sul will sign the contract for four Handy class vessels. Lula is expected to attend. (Reporting and writing by Rodrigo Viga Gaier, Fabio Teixeira, and Paul Simao).

(source: Reuters)