Brazil targets critical mineral market amid global supply chain shifts

Brazil is positioning itself as a key player in the global race for critical minerals, such as lithium, nickel, graphite, copper, and rare earths. These resources are essential for the energy transition, semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and battery production. The importance of these minerals has led to their inclusion in bilateral trade negotiations between Brazil and the United States, linking mineral exploration directly to industrial policy and economic security.

While Brazil possesses significant geological potential, experts emphasize the distinction between mineral resources and mineral reserves. According to the National Mining Agency, a resource only becomes a reserve when technical, economic, legal, environmental, and social factors—known as ‘modifying factors’—demonstrate its economic viability.

To attract international capital, the Ministry of Mines and Energy has released a new Guide for Foreign Investors in Critical Minerals. This initiative aims to present opportunities within the sector as global supply chains reorganize amidst geopolitical tensions and the demand for new technologies.