The Government of São Paulo and the Ministry of Ports and Airports (MPor) have set a new date for the auction of the Santos-Guarujá Tunnel: September 5, 2025. The updated timeline is a direct result of the qualified contributions received during the international roadshow held in Europe, which brought together major global infrastructure players interested in the project.
During the mission, valuable opportunities for improvement were identified in the concession model, financial structure and technical assumptions of the bidding documents. These suggestions are now being incorporated to enhance the quality of the bidding process, increase the attractiveness of the asset and ensure greater legal and operational security for the project.
With 1.5 km of total length — including 870 meters below the canal bed —, the tunnel will be the first of its kind in Brazil. The construction will mark a technological leap for national engineering by adopting the immersed tunnel technique, successfully used in countries such as the Netherlands, Japan, China and South Korea.
The infrastructure will feature three lanes in each direction, including a dedicated lane for Light Rail Transit (LRT) and a gallery for pedestrians and cyclists. The project includes modern ventilation, lighting and safety systems. The construction method ensures reduced urban impact, faster execution, easier maintenance and operational benefits throughout the concession period.
The concession will last 30 years and will include the construction, operation and maintenance of the system. The concessionaire will be compensated through toll collection, public payments, public capital contribution and ancillary revenues. The tender will be awarded based on the highest discount offered on the maximum public payment, ensuring greater efficiency and benefits for the population.
Currently, the connection between Santos and Guarujá is made via ferries and small boats (catraias), transporting over 21,000 vehicles, 7,700 cyclists and 7,600 pedestrians daily. The new tunnel will transform this mobility. The project is also expected to generate approximately 9,000 direct and indirect jobs, boosting the regional economy.
The Santos-Guarujá Tunnel is the result of a joint effort by the Government of São Paulo, the Ministry of Ports and Airports, the São Paulo State Transport Agency (ARTESP), the National Agency for Waterway Transport (ANTAQ), and the Santos Port Authority (APS). The construction marks a milestone for national infrastructure and a significant advancement in urban mobility and logistics in the Baixada Santista region.
Qualified under the São Paulo State Partnerships in Investment Program (PPI-SP) and integrated into the Growth Acceleration Program (PAC), the project foresees a total estimated investment of R$ 6 billion — with public resources shared between the Government of São Paulo and the Federal Government, alongside private sector participation.