Terrabrás would have control over the exploration of essential minerals to produce electronics; Brazil has the 2nd largest global reserves
The president (PT) will have a meeting with ministers at 9am this Friday (27th March 2026) at Palácio do Planalto. They will discuss a proposal prepared by the government for the creation of a state-owned company for the exploration of rare earths in Brazil. There is even an idea for a name for the company: Terrabrás.
Rare earths are essential for the production of electronic equipment. China has the largest global reserves of these ores. Brazil has the 2nd largest. The United States proposed an agreement to favor the activities of North American companies in the exploration of rare earths in Brazil and other critical minerals. The Brazilian government has not yet responded.
The state-owned company to be created could also participate in the exploration of other minerals considered strategic. It is not defined what they would be. But the list could even include iron mining.
According to the proposal being discussed, the government could claim equity participation in the companies. It would also have a golden share, an action with the right to veto decisions. The chance of this being approved by Congress is slim. But the discussion could drive investments away from Brazil, in the opinion of sector analysts.
The ministers (Finance) and (Mines and Energy), the executive secretary of the Civil House, Miriam Belchior, and the head of Lula’s special advisor, Celso Amorim, will participate in the meeting with Lula at Planalto.
