Mining expansion and environmental concerns rise in Brazil

Mining operations and expansion projects are advancing across Brazil, particularly in the states of Minas Gerais and Bahia. In southern Bahia, near the border of Minas Gerais, a project by U.S.-based Energy Fuels has raised environmental concerns. The initiative involves 19 mining titles in the municipalities of Nova Viçosa, Caravelas, Alcobaça, and Prado, targeting substances such as titanium, cassiterite, and ilmenite in a region known for its biodiversity and indigenous communities.

In Minas Gerais, EuroChem is working toward reaching a full capacity of 1 million tons of phosphate fertilizers annually at its Serra do Salitre Complex by 2027. The project has seen approximately US$ 1 billion in investment since 2022. Meanwhile, Galvani is progressing with its Irecê Primary Ore Project in Bahia, with an expected completion of implementation by the end of 2026 and the start of operations in early 2027. This project involves investments exceeding R$ 500 million and aims to produce 350,000 tons of phosphate concentrate annually.