This article seeks to contribute to knowledge about the bilateral relations between Portugal and Brazil and the role played by Portuguese emigration in maintaining these relations during the Military Dictatorship. By analyzing the maritime transport of emigrants between the two countries—a business monopolized by foreign companies from northern Europe—we seek to identify the measures adopted by Portuguese shipping companies in response to this foreign competition and to explain the reasons for their failure.

Key-words:
Maritime History, History of Portugal, Portugal-Brazil Relations, Migration, Shipping Companies