Australian Mining Companies in Brazil
Two Australian companies have purchased dozens of mining rights in Brazilian towns, intending to extract rare earth elements. This move has raised concerns among local communities due to potential environmental threats.
The towns of Poços de Caldas and Caldas, located in the southern region of Minas Gerais, are at the center of this development. The area is known for its enormous deposit of rare earth elements, which are crucial for energy transition technologies and the military industry.
“nobody will lay hands on” Brazilian minerals
According to President Lula da Silva, the Brazilian government is committed to protecting its mineral resources. This statement was seen as a response to American interests in Brazilian minerals, highlighting the complex trade disputes involving the United States, China, and Brazil.
- Poços de Caldas: population 163,000
- Caldas: population 14,000
- Minas Gerais: major mining state in Brazil
Author's summary: Australian mining companies are extracting rare earth elements in Brazil, sparking local concerns.