Chemicals, Maritime & Shipping, Polymers
October 13, 2026
Falling Rio Negro levels add uncertainty to Brazil polyethylene market
Featuring Karina Trevizan and Carla Bridi
HIGHLIGHTS
River drop threatens 21% of PE imports
Freight costs rise as drought looms near
Manaus supply chain faces disruption risk
A sharp decline in Rio Negro water levels has increased uncertainty in Brazil's polyethylene market, as 21% of the country's imports travel on the river to reach Manaus. While the river remains above the official drought threshold of 17.7 meters, any further drop could increase freight costs and disrupt supply chains.
