Integrated simulation of an inland container terminal and waterway service for enhancing the maritime supply chain connectivity between Joinville and Itapoá Port

Maritime transportation plays a pivotal role in the Brazilian economy, accounting for 88 % of exports and 73 % of imports in 2021. This substantial contribution has positioned Santa Catarina State as the second-largest container handler in the country, representing 24 % of the national total. Given the significance of Itapoá Port, which ranks fifth in containerized cargo handling, and the city of Joinville, known for its substantial cargo movement through the Port, this study focuses on the intricate dynamics of the maritime supply chain in this region. The primary contribution of this paper is the proposal of an inland container terminal and waterway service between Joinville and Itapoá Port, evaluated through an Agent-Based Simulation Model and financial analysis. The proposed framework demonstrates both operational and economic viability and emerges as a competitive option, yielding a 2 % reduction in costs for end customers compared to the current scenario. The results indicate a positive impact on the level of service offered to customers in Joinville, with a notable 65 % reduction in truck dwell time. Additionally, this approach fosters a more environmentally sustainable operation, achieving a 65 % decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. These outcomes are realized through a significant 49 % reduction in the number of trucks and an 84 % decrease in their average travel distance.