English 
Spanish 
5 min read
6 comments
With expanding projects, the state of Piauí becomes a protagonist in the mineral sector, boosting the economy, generating jobs and attracting attention in the global market.
Piauí is becoming a major player in the Brazilian mining scene. With an impressive mineral diversity and growing exploration projects, the state is about to reach a historic milestone. By the end of 2024, more than 500 tons of iron ore will be exported, and expectations for 2025 are even higher: to surpass 1 million tons extracted. This advance not only puts Piauí in the spotlight on the global market, but also promises to bring economic and social development to the region, with positive impacts in several areas, such as job and income generation.
A territory rich in minerals and opportunities
Approximately 21% of the state of Piauí is being positively impacted by mining activity. The state is not only known for its iron ore production, but also for the exploration of other minerals, such as nickel, manganese, phosphate and even precious stones, such as opal.
The main iron reserves are located in the regions of Paulistana, Curral Novo do Piauí and Piripiri, where extraction is already at an intense pace. Additionally, nickel is emerging as another important resource, with large deposits in the areas of São João do Piauí and Captain Gervasio Oliveira, explored through the ambitious Santa Fé Project. Meanwhile, cities like Gilbués shine with their high quality manganese, and Pedro II is famous for its opals, recognized as some of the best in Brazil.
- China makes HISTORIC discovery of 1,15 million tons of RARE EARTHS in Yunnan and consolidates global dominance in the technology industry
- Maximum alert! After the collapse of the Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge, 40 federal bridges in critical condition could collapse in the coming years, according to an alarming report by the Public Prosecutor's Office
- Discover the history of orichalcum, the precious metal of the ancient world that shone in antiquity and still challenges archaeologists with its mysterious secrets!
- New factory built in Brazil will have an investment of 11 MILLION euros! Belgian laminate flooring company Unilin has chosen Paraná for its new unit
Iron ore at the center of Piauí's exports
Iron ore mining in Piauí is not limited to supplying the domestic market. The state has invested heavily in infrastructure and logistics to boost its exports. Projects such as Transnordestina Railway are being structured to facilitate the flow of production, allowing the mineral extracted in the state to reach international markets efficiently.
This increase in exports reinforces Piauí’s role in the global market, putting the state on an equal footing with other regions in Brazil traditionally known for their mining strength. According to Bruno Casanova Cerullo, Superintendent of Mining and Renewable Energy, the expansion of mining “represents economic and social development, with positive impacts in several areas, such as job creation and increased revenue.”
Job generation and regional development
The expansion of mining in Piauí is directly linked to job creation and the strengthening of the local economy. With the increase in mining activity, cities such as Piripiri, Paulistana and Curral Novo do Piauí have experienced a greater supply of jobs, both in mining operations and in related sectors, such as transportation and logistics.
Investments in infrastructure by private companies and the state government help improve the quality of life in communities near mining areas. Projects such as the construction of roads, railways and mineral processing plants boost regional development and expand opportunities for residents.
A promising future for the mineral sector in Piauí
Looking ahead to 2025, Piauí has everything it needs to solidify its position as one of Brazil’s leading mining states. Nickel mining is expected to begin in the São Raimundo Nonato region, while iron ore mining will expand to the north of the state, encompassing Piripiri and Caxingó. These new projects are expected to further increase mineral production and attract new investment to the state.
Promising studies in the Parnaíba River Basin also indicate the presence of natural gas, while phosphorus and groundwater are seen as strategic resources for farming. These potentials reinforce the importance of Piauí not only in mining, but also in other economic sectors.
Mining and sustainability
Although advances in mining are considerable, it is essential that the growth of the sector is accompanied by sustainable practices. The exploration of natural resources must be carried out responsibly, ensuring environmental preservation and the sustainability of the impacted communities.
Mining companies in Piauí have sought to align their operations with these principles, investing in technologies that reduce environmental impacts and promote the rational use of resources. The partnership between the private sector and the state government will be essential to balance economic development and environmental preservation in the coming years.
Piauí as a protagonist in the mineral scenario
With its mineral production constantly growing, Piauí is proving that it has a fundamental role to play in Brazil’s economic scenario. The exploration of iron ore, nickel, manganese and other minerals not only puts the state in the spotlight on the global market, but also transforms the lives of local communities through job creation and improved infrastructure.
As Piauí’s mining sector continues to grow, challenges and opportunities go hand in hand. However, with planning, innovation and a commitment to sustainability, the state has everything it needs to establish itself as one of Brazil’s major mining hubs. And for those who live in Piauí, the future looks bright, full of opportunities and development.
Are they national companies or plundering of the nation!?
Mining activity does not bring all these benefits. It leaves a trail of destruction and pays very little in taxes, because the mineral is usually exported and the exporting state does not receive the due compensation from the Union. Jobs? Very few. Intensive use of machinery and equipment. In a state without railways, it is a tragedy for the highways.