started · updated
Brazil rare earth exploration surges as foreign interest grows
Brazil is seeing a surge in rare earth element exploration as Western nations seek to diversify supply chains away from China. Data from the National Mining Agency shows that 2,727 exploration applications were filed through June, with 86% of these requests occurring in the last three years. Notably, 42% of these applications are held by foreign companies or their subsidiaries, primarily from Australia, the United States, and Canada.
Several companies have announced major projects. Power Minerals aims to begin commercial production at its Morro do Ferro project in Minas Gerais by 2030 or 2032, focusing on minerals essential for electric vehicles and defense. Meanwhile, Brazilian Rare Earths (BRE) plans to invest approximately US$ 969 million in its Rocha da Rocha project in Bahia, targeting production by 2031.
While the influx of foreign capital presents economic opportunities, it has raised environmental concerns. Approximately one-quarter of the exploration applications are located near or within protected areas and indigenous territories, posing risks of deforestation and water pollution in regions like the Amazon.
Entities
Brazil · Brazilian Rare Earths · China · National Mining Agency · Power Minerals
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Over 86% of rare earth exploration applications in Brazil were filed within the last three years. kagonma-info.com · racismoambiental.net.br · wtop.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Foreign-owned companies or their subsidiaries account for 42% of rare earth exploration applications in Brazil. kagonma-info.com · racismoambiental.net.br · wtop.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Brazil received 2,727 rare earth exploration applications as of June. kagonma-info.com · racismoambiental.net.br · wtop.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Brazilian Rare Earths (BRE) plans to invest approximately US$ 969 million in its Rocha da Rocha project in Bahia. revistamineracao.com.br
- [○ 1 SOURCE] BRE expects its first integrated rare earth production to begin in 2031. revistamineracao.com.br
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Power Minerals aims to begin commercial rare earth production at the Morro do Ferro project by 2030 or 2032. www.cnnbrasil.com.br