The year 2023 has been marked by several advances targeting energy transition, culminating in the development of mining activities for strategic minerals. In this scenario, Brazil has occupied a prominent place, in particular concerning lithium mining.
Development of the activity in the country has been fostered by public policies that have already been implemented and some that have been announced. Last year, the Federal Government published Decree No. 11,120/2022, which allowed foreign trade operations in lithium minerals and ores, and their byproducts, opened up the market, and significantly boosted lithium mineral exploitation in Brazil. More recently, in May 2023, the government of Minas Gerais, jointly with the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) and the Brazilian Mining Institute (IBRAM), launched the Lithium Valley project at the Nasdaq stock market in New York aiming at attracting international investments to develop mineral production in the region known as Vale do Jequitinhonha, which until then had been facing several economic and social challenges. The project has the potential to transform the region into one of the world’s leading lithium producers, allowing Brazil to enter the export route for lithium batteries, which are essential for energy transition.
In a recent statement, the MME’s Secretary of Geology and Mining said that the government intends to create a national plan to promote the use of strategic minerals to advance energy transition in Brazil and the world. The government’s plan involves approximately BRL 15 billion to be invested in the production of lithium ore by 2030.
It is important to emphasize that public policies should also focus on the challenges that remain, such as the need to empower the structure of the National Mining Agency (ANM) and the Brazilian Geological Service (SGB). The expectation is that the second half of 2023 will be marked by progress, especially considering the current strike situation of ANM civil servants, who are seeking better working conditions and more robust teams through new competitive examinations to more hire civil servants.
With the implementation of these measures, Brazil is expected to position itself in the international market for the production of strategic minerals, attracting foreign investment and companies to the country.
