Vast Infraestrutura has hit a major operational milestone by executing ExxonMobil’s first-ever crude oil transshipment in Brazil, moving 1 million barrels from the Bacalhau field. This landmark operation at the T-Oil terminal underscores Vast’s dominant role in the pre-salt logistics chain, providing a high-safety, sheltered alternative to open-sea transfers. By securing ExxonMobil as its 13th major client, Vast further solidifies its position as the primary export gateway, currently handling nearly half of all Brazilian crude exports.
Port of Açu, Brazil | April 2, 2026 – In a milestone for South American energy logistics, Vast Infraestrutura (formerly Açu Petróleo) has successfully completed the first oil transshipment operation for ExxonMobil in Brazil. The operation involved the movement of 1 million barrels of crude oil produced from the world-class Bacalhau field, located in the Santos Basin.
The transshipment took place on March 28, 2026, at the T-Oil terminal within the Port of Açu. This event is particularly significant as it represents ExxonMobil’s first physical oil handling operation in Brazil since the company began its corporate activities in the country over 110 years ago.
Logistical Precision: The Suezmax Maneuver
The operation utilized a high-efficiency “double banking” method in the terminal’s sheltered waters.
- The Vessels: The transfer involved two Suezmax-class tankers, the Primeway and the Windsor Knutsen shuttle tanker.
- The Cargo: 1 million barrels of light crude from the Bacalhau field, a massive pre-salt development operated by Equinor (40%) in partnership with ExxonMobil (40%), Petrogal Brasil (20%), and PPSA.
- Safety & Reliability: By performing the transfer at T-Oil’s sheltered berths, the operation bypassed the risks associated with open-sea ship-to-ship (STS) transfers, ensuring 100% predictability and safety.
A Strategic Hub for Pre-Salt Exports
The success of this operation solidifies the Port of Açu as the premier gateway for Brazil’s burgeoning oil production.
- Market Leadership: Vast Infraestrutura currently handles approximately 48% of Brazil’s total crude oil exports.
- Terminal Capacity: T-Oil is the only private terminal in Brazil capable of receiving VLCC (Very Large Crude Carrier) vessels and is licensed to handle up to 1.2 million barrels per day.
- Client Expansion: ExxonMobil joins an elite portfolio of 13 global energy giants, including Shell, Petrobras, TotalEnergies, and Equinor, who utilize the terminal for their logistics.
“This operation demonstrates T-Oil’s ability to support large-scale pre-salt projects with excellence, combining security, efficiency, and reliability, we continue to reinforce our role as the primary logistics partner for the world’s leading energy companies in Brazil.” Company stated.
The Bacalhau Field
The Bacalhau field, which saw first oil in October 2025, is one of the most modern offshore developments in the world. With recoverable reserves exceeding 1 billion barrels, the field’s production is ramping up toward its Phase 1 capacity of 220,000 barrels per day. the regular flow of Bacalhau crude through the Port of Açu signals a long-term increase in tanker traffic and a heightened demand for specialized marine services in the Rio de Janeiro region.
Bunkering Hub
For the marine fuel and shipping sectors, this news signals more than just an oil transfer. Vast is currently expanding the Açu Liquid Terminal (TLA) with a R$250 million investment in a new tank farm. Set for completion in late 2026, this expansion will transform the site into a major hub for:
- VLSFO and Marine Gas Oil (MGO) storage.
- Lubricants and Base Oils storage.
- Future Fuels: Preparations for SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) and e-methanol logistics.
About Vast Infraestrutura
Part of the Prumo Group, Vast Infraestrutura manages energy and liquid terminals at the Port of Açu, including T-Oil and TLA. Committed to operational excellence, sustainability, and innovation, Vast is expanding its capabilities to support low-carbon and alternative fuels, positioning itself as a benchmark for decarbonized maritime logistics in Latin America.
Source: Vast Infraestrutura