The National Logistics Plan (PNL) 2035 is a strategic document designed to guide the development of Brazil’s transportation system through 2035.

For freight forwarders and customs brokers, understanding the guidelines and projections of this plan is essential to prepare for changes in the logistics sector and ensure efficiency in transportation and foreign trade operations.

In this article, we will explore the key points of PNL 2035, highlighting how it impacts the work of these professionals.

What is the National Logistics Plan 2035?

The PNL 2035 is a strategic planning instrument developed by the Logistics Planning Company (EPL) in partnership with the Ministry of Infrastructure.

Its primary objective is to integrate all modes of transportation (road, rail, waterway, and air) and provide a long-term vision for developing Brazil’s logistics infrastructure.

The plan aims to reduce logistics costs, increase efficiency, and promote sustainability in transporting goods and people.

The PNL 2035 is part of the Integrated Transport Planning (PIT) concept, which aligns different planning tools to ensure that strategic, tactical, and operational decisions are made coherently and holistically.

This means the plan not only identifies bottlenecks and opportunities but also proposes solutions that can be implemented through public and private investments.

Why is PNL 2035 Important for Freight Forwarders and Customs Brokers?

For freight forwarders and customs brokers, PNL 2035 is a valuable tool because it offers a clear view of trends and changes in the transport sector.

Based on the plan’s projections and scenarios, these professionals can:

- Anticipate demand
- Optimize routes
- Improve operational efficiency

Additionally, the plan provides insights into how infrastructure and regulatory changes may impact freight transportation, particularly regarding intermodality and sustainability.

Key Objectives of PNL 2035

PNL 2035 is based on principles and guidelines established by the National Transport Policy (PNT). Its main objectives include:

Providing an accessible, efficient, and reliable transport system for the mobility of people and goods.
Ensuring operational safety across all transport modes.
Promoting international integration and cooperation with neighboring countries.
Acting as a driver of Brazil’s socioeconomic and sustainable development.

These objectives are crucial for freight forwarders and customs brokers, as they directly impact how goods are transported and cleared. For example:

International integration can facilitate foreign trade.
Operational safety helps reduce risks and costs associated with cargo transportation.

How Does PNL 2035 Impact Intermodality?

Intermodality is one of the pillars of PNL 2035. The plan promotes the integration of different transport modes—road, rail, and waterways—to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

For freight forwarders, this means:

Optimized routes
Shorter delivery times
More cost-effective transportation options

For example, coastal shipping (cabotage) can be combined with road transport to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

PNL 2035 projects significant investments in port and rail infrastructure, expanding intermodal options available to freight forwarders.

Future Scenarios and Projections of PNL 2035

PNL 2035 presents nine future scenarios that simulate different configurations of Brazil’s transportation system through 2035.

These scenarios consider factors such as:

Infrastructure investments
Regulatory changes
Technological advancements

For freight forwarders and customs brokers, understanding these scenarios is crucial to preparing for industry changes.

🔹 Scenario 1: Ongoing Projects

Considers only infrastructure projects already underway or budgeted in the 2019-2023 Multi-Year Plan (PPA).

Impact: Minimal changes, with gradual improvements in logistics infrastructure.

🔹 Scenario 2: Planned Projects

Includes all projects from Scenario 1, plus short-term projects under planning or study.

Impact: Potential new business opportunities, especially in regions where logistics infrastructure will expand.

🔹 Scenario 3: Transformative Economic Context

A more ambitious version of Scenario 2, considering additional policies to accelerate economic development.

Impact: Increased demand for logistics services, benefiting freight forwarders.

🔹 Scenario 4: Planned Projects + BR do Mar

Includes the impact of the BR do Mar program, which promotes cabotage shipping.

Impact: Lower costs and expanded maritime transport routes for freight forwarders.

🔹 Scenario 5: Planned Projects + Technological Innovations

Considers emerging technologies such as autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, and big data.

Impact: Faster customs clearance processes and greater operational efficiency for brokers.

🔹 Scenario 6: Private and Public Sector Proposals

Includes infrastructure proposals from the private sector and civil society during public consultations.

Impact: Expanded private-sector investment in logistics.

🔹 Scenario 7: Planned Projects + Railway Deregulation

Considers the impact of the new railway regulatory framework, allowing private operators to manage railway segments.

Impact: Expanded rail network, lower logistics costs for heavy cargo.

🔹 Scenario 8: Comprehensive Transformative Scenario

Combines all previous scenarios, creating a transformative economic and logistics context.

Impact: The most comprehensive vision of logistics changes through 2035.

🔹 Scenario 9: Key Opportunities for National Transport Development

Identifies the most strategic projects and actions based on all previous scenarios.

Impact: Helps freight forwarders and customs brokers identify the best investment opportunities.

Impact of BR do Mar on Cabotage

The BR do Mar is one of the most relevant projects in PNL 2035 for freight forwarders and customs brokers.

Its goal is to reduce costs and expand coastal shipping routes, which currently represent only 9% of Brazil’s logistics matrix but have significant growth potential.

🚢 Benefits of BR do Mar for Freight Forwarders:

💰 Cost Reduction:
Cabotage is 60% cheaper than road transport and 40% cheaper than rail transport.

⚡ Greater Efficiency:
It enables large-volume cargo transport over long distances.

🌱 Sustainability:
Cabotage emits 6x less CO₂ than road transport.

How to Prepare for PNL 2035 Changes?

PNL 2035 provides an integrated, strategic vision for the development of Brazil’s transport system.

To take full advantage of its opportunities, professionals must:

✅ Stay informed about infrastructure investments and regulatory changes.
✅ Adapt to new logistics technologies and intermodal transport strategies.
✅ Explore cost-effective and sustainable solutions like cabotage shipping.

🔎 Want to optimize your logistics operations under PNL 2035?

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