Australian Mining Companies in Brazil
Two Australian companies have purchased dozens of mining rights in Brazil, planning to invest heavily in the extraction of rare earth elements. This has raised concerns among local communities in the towns of Poços de Caldas and Caldas, located in the southern region of the mining state of Minas Gerais.
The region holds an enormous deposit of rare earth elements, with unprecedented concentration levels, making it a crucial resource for energy transition technologies and the military industry.
“nobody will lay hands on” Brazilian minerals
was stated by President Lula da Silva, in a message perceived as directed at American President Donald Trump, amidst trade disputes involving the United States, China, and Brazil.
Environmental Concerns
Local communities are worried about the environmental threats posed by the mining activities, despite the expected investments.
- Poços de Caldas: population 163,000
- Caldas: population 14,000
Author's summary: Australian companies are extracting rare earth elements in Brazil.