Brazil outlines rare‑earth strategy after new government‑backed study

The Centre for Management and Strategic Studies (CGEE), linked to Brazil’s Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, released a book titled *Rare Earths in Brazil: State of the Art, Scenarios and Strategic Roadmap 2026‑2040*. Authored by ten engineers, researchers and university professors, the study maps Brazil’s rare‑earth reserves – estimated at about a quarter of the world supply – and analyses global and national value chains for the 17 elements used in electric cars, defense equipment, smartphones and wind turbines.

The publication was presented at the VII Brazilian Rare Earths Seminar in Rio de Janeiro, co‑organised by the Centre for Mineral Technology (Cetem), the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, the Brazilian Industrial Development Agency and the Ministry of Mines and Energy. CGEE director Anderson Gomes said the book proposes “clear pathways for Brazil to be globally competitive by 2040” and urges a policy choice between remaining a raw‑material exporter or building an industry that manufactures components and equipment.

The report is intended to inform Senate debates on Bill 2780/2024, which creates a National Critical and Strategic Minerals Policy and a council under the Presidency. The bill has passed the Chamber of Deputies and awaits Senate committee review. CGEE also notes university initiatives, such as a new postgraduate network at the Federal University of Pernambuco, to train specialists for the sector.