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Goiás takes off in the race for rare earths: global market projects US$ 1 trillion by 2030 and the goal is to double 5.000 t/year of ETR

Written by Rafaela Fabris
Published 11/12/2024 às 20:21
Goiás takes off in the race for rare earths: global market projects US$ 1 trillion by 2030 and the goal is to double 5.000 t/year of ETR
Serra Verde advances in rare earth production and seeks to double ETR capacity by 2030

With global demand for critical minerals growing, Brazilian mining company is betting on sustainable extraction of rare earths to drive energy transition

In the fast-paced energy transition, the search for rare earths and other critical minerals is on the rise, and Brazil is emerging as a major player in this scenario. Mineração Serra Verde, based in Goiás, kicked off the commercial production of rare earth elements (REEs) in 2024, an achievement that puts the country in the spotlight of the global market, especially given the ambitious goal of doubling its production capacity before 2030.

The demand for critical minerals, such as those needed for electric vehicle batteries, wind turbines and renewable energy systems, shoots at an exponential rate. According to data from the International Energy Agency, this market generated US$230 billion in 2023 and could reach US$1 trillion by the end of the decade.

In this game, rare earths represent a strategic share, as they are essential for the manufacture of high-tech components, directly reflecting the competitiveness of production chains.

Brazil has the third largest global reserve of rare earths

Rare Earth Potential (REP), based on 201 data
Rare Earth Potential (REP), based on 201 data

Brazil, which has the third largest global reserve of rare earths, with 21 million tons mapped by the National Mining Agency (ANM), is consolidating itself as a strong candidate to be among the five largest producers in the world.

Ionic clays, found in several regions of the country, reinforce the country's potential. Serra Verde, the only producer outside Asia to operate on a commercial scale with the four main REEs, not only began its operations, but has also been on the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) list since October 2024, highlighting its relevance in the supply of critical minerals.

Investment of US$ 150 million

To boost its growth, the mining company received a US$150 million investment led by Energy and Minerals Group and Vision Blue Resources. These investments, combined with sustainable extraction initiatives, without blasting or crushing, make Serra Verde an example of responsible mining.

Reforestation programs, biodiversity preservation and use of solar energy complement the strategy, reducing environmental impact and ensuring production aligned with new global parameters.

Rare earths and critical minerals

The presence of rare earths and other critical minerals in various parts of the Brazilian map, from Minas Gerais to Bahia, passing through Goiás, Amazonas, São Paulo, Tocantins and other states, reinforces the country's image as an attractive destination for investors.

In addition to REEs, Brazil has niobium, lithium, nickel and copper. Promising projects, many of which are still in the research phase, are spread throughout the country, creating a scenario of broad diversity and potential.

Generation of qualified jobs

In this context, ANM highlights an important challenge: expanding the production chain internally. Instead of limiting itself to exporting raw minerals, Brazil can adopt a more verticalized approach, developing high value-added solutions. This change in strategy would strengthen local industry, generate qualified jobs and boost the green economy, placing the country at the forefront of the global market for critical minerals.

Ao aim for a future As demand for rare earths and associated resources continues to grow, Serra Verde stands out as a symbol of this new phase of Brazilian mining. As the energy transition expands, Brazil consolidates its position as an important hub for the production of REEs, contributing to a more sustainable, technological world aligned with global environmental goals.

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Marcilon Santos Seabra
Marcilon Santos Seabra
13/12/2024 13:22

They are passing everything on to the Chinese zoins, in a few days we won't even be able to plant cassava, let alone pequi.

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Rafaela Fabris

It discusses innovation, renewable energy, oil and gas. With over 1.200 articles published in CPG, it provides daily updates on opportunities in the Brazilian job market.

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