7th CLIA Forum Brazil 2025: Bud Darr, CEO of CLIA Global, states “The future of Cruzeiro is in Brazil”

The 7th CLIA Brazil Forum highlights impressive data and discussed challenges and opportunities for sustainable industry growth.

Bud Darr celebrates the global growth and potential of Brazil

The president and CEO of CLIA Global, Bud Darr, brought to the event his international experience and a message of optimism for the industry. "This is a very exciting moment for the cruzeiro sector," said Darr, highlighting record numbers: 34.6 million passengers transported in 2024 and a projected 37.7 million passengers in 2025, with the expectation of reaching 42 million passengers in 2028.

The economic scope, the global impact of the industry is approximately US$ 169 billion, generating approximately 1.6 million jobs in the world. "I am proud of what we do, and Brazil has a strategic role in its growth," he stated. For the country, the economic impact in 2024 was US$ 956 million, with the generation of 84 thousand jobs, numbers that, according to Darr, can grow with adequate investments and sensitive regulatory policies.

Competitiveness and regulatory challenges

He emphasized the need to maintain competitiveness against international destinations, such as the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Alaska. "The high cost in southern Brazilian ports and the complexities of regulations can destroy ships if they are not balanced," he warned. He highlighted that partnerships with local governments and communities are essential: "We need to be good corporate citizens, working side by side with all stakeholders."

The CEO also highlighted the importance of modern infrastructure, adequate incentives and efficient regulation to attract new ships, including the expansion of destinations in the Northeast of the country.

Satisfaction with passages and opportunities for growth

One of the highlights of Darr's presentation was the high satisfaction of two Brazilian clients: 96% of the passengers stated that they would be willing to board in Cruzeiros. Second, this loyalty is an opportunity to recover the 20% capacity deficit expected for the 2025-26 season, due to the reduction of ships in operation.

"Diligence, patience and integration between the public and private sectors are essential to transform this potential into sustainable growth," he stated.

Dario Rustico reinforces the unity between public and private sectors

The president of the CLIA Brazil Council, Dario Rustico, welcomed the presence of authorities and reinforced the mission of the association: guarantee a safe, competitive and predictable business environment. "We need to walk side by side with governments and institutions, transforming challenges into opportunities," he stated. Rustico highlighted that the forum is a space for cooperation, not criticism, and that Brazil must become a global reference in the cruzeiro industry.

Marco Ferraz details the economic and social impact

The executive president of CLIA Brazil, Marco Ferraz, presented detailed data on the country's sector. The previous season had an impact of US$ 956 million and created more than 84 thousand jobs. Each ship contributed nearly US$97 million to the local economy.

Ferraz also highlighted the growth of two passage ships, which moved 233 thousand visitors and contributed US$ 1.1 billion in additional economic impact. "For every dollar spent by companies in Brazil, we generate US$ 0.74 in return for the economy," he explained, highlighting the importance of the industry for port cities and local communities.

Infrastructure and regional opportunities

The study presented revealed that Brazil currently receives 38 ships from South America, with destinations that go from the Amazon to Rio Grande do Sul. However, next season it foresees a 20% reduction in the offer, impacting more than 18 thousand contracts.

Ferraz emphasized the importance of strategic investments in infrastructure and regulation to keep the country competitive: "Keeping ships that are here is much more efficient than trying to reconquer the depots."

Reportage and photo: Mary de Aquino.