Brazil’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira, expressed absolute certainty that mining giant Vale will expand its focus beyond iron ore to include large-scale projects in critical minerals, particularly rare earths.
Speaking at the Exposibram mining congress in Minas Gerais, Silveira highlighted Brazil’s potential as a global mineral hub, especially amid the energy transition. He emphasized that rare earths could drive industrial reshoring, job creation, and economic inclusion. "Brazil is the paradise of minerals in general, particularly now in the era of the energy transition," he said.
Vale’s President Gustavo Pimenta has previously advocated for reforms to unlock investment, citing the need to streamline environmental licensing, improve geological mapping, and strengthen sector regulations. Silveira praised Pimenta’s leadership, noting his increased sensitivity and openness to negotiation.
Vale’s current operations remain centered on iron ore, with significant projects in nickel and copper. The company’s S11D mine in Canaã do Carajás, Pará state, which began operations a decade ago, was its most recent mega project. The agreement for reparations and compensations related to the Samarco joint venture with BHP was finalized in 2024.
Regulatory progress is underway, with a decree defining environmental rules for protecting natural underground cavities currently under review at the Civil House. The measure, developed in consensus between the Ministries of Mines and Energy and the Environment, aims to expedite environmental licensing for new mining initiatives.
The government’s push to accelerate permitting aligns with growing global demand for critical minerals essential to clean energy technologies.
