# Port of Santos modernization and security updates > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/port-of-santos-modernization-and-concession-updates > Updated: 2026-08-15T09:00:00.000Z. Sources: 20. Developments: 4. The Port of Santos is undergoing significant technological and structural updates. On 6 August, the Autoridade Portuária de Santos (APS) signed an R$ 88.99 million contract with Consórcio Portulano to implement a Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS). This five-year project, which was delayed for over 15 years due to regulatory changes, aims to provide real-time monitoring of vessel movements via cameras and radar at strategic points like Ilha da Moela. The data will be shared with the Polícia Marítima, the Brazilian Navy, and the Federal Revenue Service to improve navigational safety and assist in combating drug trafficking and cargo theft. The project is expected to have its first tools operational next year, part of a broader digital transformation including 5G and digital twin initiatives. Security efforts are being further bolstered through significant investments. Minister of Justice and Public Security Wellington César Lima e Silva recently visited the port to discuss strategies for disrupting organized crime, including arms trafficking and money laundering, emphasizing intelligence sharing with regions such as Paraguay and Bolivia. To support these goals, the APS is investing approximately R$ 300 million between 2022 and 2030 to enhance technological and operational capacity. Immediate reinforcements include the acquisition of two armored boats for the Port Guard, costing R$ 7.85 million. As the port serves as a testing ground for Brazil’s new concession model, the upcoming auction for the access channel is being closely monitored. This model shifts responsibilities for dredging and operational management from the state to the private sector. Additionally, Cade is preparing to approve a reorganization agreement between Maersk and MSC regarding the Tecon Santos 10 terminal auction. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-15: Port of Santos security focus increases to combat organized crime Brazil's Justice Minister visited the Port of Santos to coordinate efforts against organized crime, emphasizing intelligence sharing and technological investments to secure maritime trade routes. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/port-of-santos-security-focus-increases-to-combat-organized-crime ### 2026-08-12: Cade prepares to approve Maersk and MSC deal for Santos port auction Cade's technical area is poised to approve a Maersk and MSC agreement to reorganize BTP ownership, enabling both companies to bid for the Tecon Santos 10 terminal auction in Brazil. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cade-prepares-to-approve-maersk-and-msc-deal-for-santos-port-auction ### 2026-08-09: Port of Santos auction to test new Brazilian concession model The Port of Santos auction will test Brazil's new private concession model for port access channels, shifting dredging and maintenance responsibilities to the private sector to ensure navigability. 13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/port-of-santos-access-channel-auction-to-test-new-concession-model ### 2026-08-06: Port of Santos signs $88.9M contract for real-time ship monitoring system Brazil's Port of Santos authority signed a R$88.99 million, five‑year contract with Consórcio Portulano to install a VTMIS that will monitor ships in real time, boost safety and aid law‑enforcement. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/port-of-santos-signs-889m-contract-for-real-time-ship-monitoring-system --- Cite as: Port of Santos modernization and security updates. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/port-of-santos-modernization-and-concession-updates