In a significant development for Brazil's mineral sector, the country has partnered with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a groundbreaking $2.5 billion initiative to explore and develop strategic minerals essential for the global energy transition.
The agreement was formalized on January 10, 2025, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Brazil's Ministry of Mines and Energy and the UAE Ministry of Investment. This collaboration aims to bolster investment in mineral exploration, extraction, processing, refining, and commercialization, while also facilitating the transfer of cutting-edge technologies from the UAE to Brazil.
Brazilian Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira, emphasized the strategic value of this partnership. "With the increase in Brazilian exports to the UAE between 2023 and 2024, this agreement signals a more robust and diversified economic relationship. It also fosters innovation and competitiveness in the mineral sector, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, promoting a more sustainable and globally integrated future," he said.
The partnership not only enhances Brazil's position in sustainable mining but also strengthens diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations. Last year, Brazil’s exports to the UAE reached $4.5 billion, marking a 43.5% growth compared to the $3.2 billion in 2023, according to data from the Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce, and Services.
The MoU highlights several key objectives, including fostering collaboration among government agencies, regulatory authorities, and businesses of all sizes—especially startups. It also aims to provide capacity-building opportunities across the mineral value chain and support research to identify new areas of cooperation in strategic minerals.
The initiative underscores Brazil's commitment to a balanced energy transition and the advancement of sustainable mining practices. It also reflects the UAE's strategic interest in leveraging its investments to drive global energy transition goals.
This landmark partnership between Brazil and the UAE represents a bold step forward in aligning mineral exploration with global sustainability goals. By combining financial investment, technological expertise, and innovation, the collaboration sets a strong foundation for Brazil’s future as a leader in strategic minerals essential for the energy transition.
