Brazil mining firms report high-grade rare earth and niobium findings

Mining companies are reporting significant progress in rare earth and niobium exploration and processing in Brazil.

Brazilian Rare Earths announced drilling results from its Monte Alto project, confirming high concentrations of rare earth elements. One drill core yielded a 21.8% Total Rare Earth Oxide (TREO) concentration over 9.4 meters. The company noted high levels of Neodymium-Praseodymium (NdPr), reaching up to 66,640 ppm. These results are expected to be included in a mineral resource update planned for late 2026.

Simultaneously, St George Mining is conducting pilot plant studies at the CIT-SENAI facility in Minas Gerais for its Araxá project. The study aims to develop dual processing pathways for both rare earths and niobium. Initial flotation tests have successfully produced niobium concentrate, while also achieving significant upgrading of rare earths within the niobium flotation tailings. This work is part of an effort to advance the Araxá project toward becoming a significant producer of these critical minerals.