Abu Dhabi-based AD Ports Group has agreed to acquire a controlling stake in Brazilian logistics company Corredor Logística e Infraestrutura (CLI) in a transaction valued at US$835 million. The move marks a major expansion for the UAE port operator and its first entry into the Brazilian market.
The agreement was announced as part of AD Ports Group’s strategy to strengthen its international presence and expand its logistics and infrastructure portfolio. The deal remains subject to regulatory and antitrust approvals before it can be completed.
CLI is one of Brazil’s leading independent port logistics platforms. The company operates at the Port of Itaqui in the state of Maranhão and at the Port of Santos in São Paulo, which is the largest port in Latin America. These facilities play an important role in handling agricultural products and other cargo moving through Brazil’s export network.
The sellers in the transaction are a private equity fund managed by IG4 Capital and an infrastructure fund managed by Macquarie Asset Management. Both firms currently hold equal controlling stakes in CLI.
The acquisition is expected to support the next phase of growth for the Brazilian company. New investment from AD Ports Group could help expand operations, improve infrastructure, and increase cargo handling capacity at key terminals.
The deal also highlights growing economic ties between the Middle East and Latin America. Companies from the Gulf region have increasingly looked beyond traditional markets in search of long-term growth opportunities. Brazil, with its large economy and strong export sector, has become an attractive destination for international investors.
CLI has undergone significant changes over the past few years. In 2020, IG4 Capital acquired the company when it was facing financial challenges. The acquisition was valued at approximately US$240 million, including debt. Following the purchase, IG4 led a major restructuring effort aimed at improving operations and strengthening the business.
The turnaround helped position CLI for future expansion. In 2022, Macquarie Asset Management joined as an equal controlling shareholder. The investment helped finance the acquisition of grain and sugar terminals in Santos from Rumo, one of Brazil’s major logistics companies.
Those assets strengthened CLI’s position in the agricultural export market. Brazil is one of the world’s largest exporters of soybeans, corn, sugar, and other commodities, making port infrastructure a critical part of the country’s economy.
For AD Ports Group, the acquisition offers access to a strategic logistics market with strong long-term growth potential. Brazil’s role as a global agricultural supplier creates consistent demand for port and transportation services. This could provide new revenue opportunities for the Abu Dhabi-based company.
The transaction also reflects AD Ports Group’s broader international expansion strategy. In recent years, the company has invested in ports, logistics facilities, and maritime services across several regions. These investments are designed to strengthen global trade connections and support long-term business growth.
Financial advisers played key roles in completing the agreement. Citi served as financial adviser to Macquarie Asset Management and IG4 Capital during the transaction process. BTG Pactual acted as adviser to AD Ports Group.
Industry analysts view the acquisition as an important milestone for both companies. CLI gains access to a new strategic investor with global experience in ports and logistics, while AD Ports secures a strong position in one of Latin America’s largest logistics markets.
If approved by regulators, the AD Ports Brazil Deal will represent one of the company’s most significant international investments and a major step in expanding its global logistics footprint.
