Written by Amir Richani for IIR News Intelligence (Sugar Land, Texas)
Summary
IBRAM forecasts US$76.9 billion in mining investments across Brazil in the next five years. The mining industry continues to gain ground in the South American country, accounting for 66% of Brazil’s trade surplus in the first quarter of 2026.
Brazil’s Mining Investment Forecast
The Brazilian Mining Institute (IBRAM) forecasts mining investments in Brazil will reach US$76.9 billion from 2026 to 2030, a 12.5% increase from the expected level for 2025-2029. IBRAM forecasts US$21.3 billion in critical-mineral investments through 2030.
This forecast for 2026-2030 surpasses those of previous periods mapped by IBRAM, dating back to 2014-2018.
According to Industrial Info Resources data, there are 989 Metals & Minerals Industry projects across Brazil, worth US$68.29 billion. Subscribers to the Industrial Info Resources Global Market Intelligence (GMI) Metals & Minerals Project Database can view a list of detailed project reports.
Based on IBRAM’s report, iron ore leads in investment, with US$19.8 billion expected over the next five years, followed by US$14.7 billion in social and environmental projects related to mining.
Based on IBRAM’s expectations, copper projects could attract up to US$8.62 billion, rare earths projects US$2.39 billion, gold projects US$2.46 billion, and lithium projects US$1.17 billion in investments.
By region, the state of Minas Gerais is expected to top the list of investment destinations, accounting for 25.6%, followed by Para with 19.1% and Bahia with 15.2% of the total.
Mining Exports and Role Match Investments
In line with growing investments in mining, the sector is playing a key role across Brazil’s economy. During the first quarter, Brazil’s mineral exports reached 87.9 million tonnes worth US$11.4 billion, up 0.9% in volume and 21.5% in value year-on-year. Imports stood at US$2.1 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of US$9.29 billion.
IBRAM reports that the trade balance effect was clear across Brazil. The US$9.29 billion surplus generated by the mining sector accounted for 66% of Brazil’s Q1 commercial surplus, which was US$14.17 billion.
Iron ore led exports, generating US$6.15 billion in value in Q1. Gold followed at US$2.33 billion, an 89.3% year-on-year increase, and copper reached US$1.58 billion, 65.7% higher than the same period in 2025.
China was the largest recipient of Brazilian mining exports in Q1, accounting for 66% of total volume. The Asian giant topped the list for copper, iron ore, manganese and niobium.
Government-Backed Policy
Brazil is a mining powerhouse. It ranks among the world’s largest producers of iron ore and niobium, and it has promising resources of rare earths, lithium and copper.
Growing international interest supports the development of Brazilian resources. Key governments and companies in Saudi Arabia, India and the European Union have made clear their intentions of investing in mining projects in the country. Meanwhile, several outlets have also reported Washington’s growing interest in mining deals with Brasilia.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s government has repeatedly stated its support for new mining projects and foreign investment to develop the industry.
“Brazil has unique conditions to lead the new low-carbon economy. We hold strategic reserves that are fundamental to the global energy transition, and we are building an increasingly safe, transparent, and competitive environment to attract investment. The Guide is a strategic instrument connecting Brazil’s mineral potential with partnership opportunities around the world,” said Brazil’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira, in March.
Key Takeaways
- IBRAM forecasts US$76.9 billion in mining-related investments in Brazil by 2030.
- There are about 1,000 mining-focused projects worth US$68.29 billion in Brazil.
- Mining exports generated a trade surplus balance of US$9.29 billion in Q1.
About Industrial Info Resources
Industrial Info Resources (IIR) is the leading provider of industrial market intelligence. Since 1983, IIR has provided comprehensive research, news and analysis on the industrial process, manufacturing and energy related industries. IIR’s Global Market Intelligence (GMI) helps companies identify and pursue trends across multiple markets with access to real, qualified and validated plant and project opportunities. Across the world, Industrial Info Resources is tracking over 250,000 current and future projects worth $30.2 Trillion (USD).
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