COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS BETWEEN RAIL AND ROAD STRUCTURE IN BRAZIL'S GRAIN EXPORTS

Abstract

This study analyzes the relevance and challenges of rail transport in the São Paulo railway network. The research contextualizes the historical development of railways, highlighting the Brazilian Railway and its role in the export of agricultural commodities, such as soybeans and corn. Current infrastructure limitations are discussed, including the lack of intermodal integration and the lack of logistics terminals, which compromise the competitiveness and efficiency of the sector. In addition, rail is compared to road transport, highlighting its economic and environmental advantages for long-distance transportation. The study emphasizes the need for public and private investments, as well as the expansion of public-private partnerships (PPPs), to modernize the railway network and improve logistics corridors. It is concluded that the expansion and integration of the railway system can reduce operating costs and strengthen global grain trade.