SAO PAULO, BRAZIL — Part of a bridge over the Moju River in Brazil’s Para state collapsed on April 6, potentially affecting grain shipments through the country’s northern ports, Reuters reported.

The bridge collapsed after it was struck by a boat. Two vehicles were crossing the bridge at the time of the collision, and rescue workers have been searching the area for victims, according to Reuters.

Kory Melby, an agribusiness consultant based in Goiania, told Reuters the bridge was the main route connecting Brazil’s farm country to its northern ports. He added that three major grain companies — Archer Daniels Midland Co., Bunge Ltd. and Hidrovias do Brasil SA — are located within 30 miles of the bridge.

“It will probably take years to rebuild,” Melby told Reuters.

He noted that about 5.7 million tonnes of soybeans and 3 million tonnes of corn were unloaded in the region in 2018, and that amount is likely to increase in the near future due to port expansions.