Dredging of the Paraná River and new port in Timbúes: how do they impact logistics risk?

The Paraná-Paraguay Waterway transports more than 80% of Argentina's agroindustrial exports. It is a key artery for the country's competitiveness and its integration with Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia and Uruguay.

In this context, the National Government recently approved the entry into the Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI) of a new project to build a port in Timbúes, Santa Fe, on the banks of the Pará River. port in Timbúes, Santa Fe, on the banks of the Paraná River. The projected investment amounts to USD 2,480 million and promises to consolidate the region as a strategic logistic node for Argentine foreign trade.

Simultaneously, the Government confirmed the dredging of the Paraná Guazú and Paraná Bravo branches, two waterways that will be incorporated to the waterway route, allowing the circulation of deep draft vessels at 34 feet (10.3 meters).

These changes open up new opportunities for the logistics sector, but also reshape risk profiles. Some key factors:

• Increase in river traffic: Higher export volume means more operations, more river stretches and greater exposure to casualties.
• Infrastructure in transition: Works in progress may generate operational, structural and environmental risks.
• Diversification of routes: New waterways require updating coverage plans and risk analysis.
• Climatic risks: The change in river morphology may affect navigation in the face of rising or falling waters.

At Hanseatica we accompany our clients with specialized solutions for the logistics and foreign trade sector. Faced with this new risk map, and to accompany the infrastructure works that are being carried out, we highlight:

Coverage for foreign trade and logistics operations

• Cargo Transportation Insurance: Door-to-door coverage, including river transits, multimodal and stock throughput.
• Container Insurance: Protection against damage due to overturning, collision, theft, weather events and loading/unloading failures.
• Civil Liability Insurance for Logistics Operators: Indemnity against claims for damages to third parties in transportation and cargo handling.
• Customs Surety Insurance: To guarantee regulatory compliance in imports/exports and operations with state entities.

Coverage for port and river infrastructure works

With the advance of public and private investments in infrastructure, specialized coverage is also required to mitigate risks associated with civil works, equipment and third party liability.

• Operational All Risks Insurance: To protect equipment, facilities and works in progress against unforeseen damages during infrastructure development.
• Civil Liability Insurance: Coverage against third party claims for damages or losses during works or activities related to port and logistics development.
• Technical Insurance: Protection for machinery, electronic equipment and contractors in civil works and erection contexts.
• Surety Insurance: Guarantee for bids, fulfillment of contracts and obligations to public or private entities within the framework of infrastructure projects.

Faced with a changing scenario, companies should review their coverage and anticipate new risks. Some recommendations:

• Verify that the policies include the new river sections and loading points.
• Include clauses for operational or environmental risks during construction.
• Incorporate specialized legal and technical advice on river operations.

River logistics in Argentina is evolving. New ports, dredging and routes imply new opportunities, but also challenges.

Having a specialized insurance partner like Hanseatica allows companies to operate with confidence, minimize unforeseen events and protect their key assets every step of the way. Contact us!