Photo: Palácio do Planalto.
Brazil's exports of rare earth elements to China rose by 48.6% during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to data from Brazil's Foreign Trade Secretariat (Secex). This significant increase reinforces Brazil’s growing role as one of China’s most important suppliers of critical minerals.
Rare earths, a group of 17 essential elements used in clean energy technologies, electric vehicles, and advanced electronics, have become increasingly valuable in the global market. China, while still the world's largest producer, is seeking to diversify its sources amid rising demand and ongoing trade tensions with Western countries.
In this evolving landscape, Brazil is emerging as a strategic partner, not only due to its large reserves, especially in states like Minas Gerais and Goiás, but also thanks to recent improvements in its capacity to extract, refine, and export these minerals. More than 60% of Brazil’s rare earth exports in the first half of 2025 were destined for China, underlining the strength of the bilateral trade relationship.
Brazilian officials have suggested that this growing trade could lead to deeper cooperation in mining infrastructure and rare earth processing, with potential Chinese investment in logistics and technology. Strengthening this value chain would benefit both nations, especially in the context of the global push toward green energy and digital transformation.
This surge in rare earth trade reflects a broader trend in Brazil-China relations, which already span key sectors such as agriculture, energy, and digital technologies. By deepening ties in the rare earth sector, Brazil positions itself as a pivotal player in the global energy transition and as a reliable partner for China’s long-term industrial goals.
* Original text in Spanish. Translated by Large Language Model (LLM) technology.
Main Source:
Crece exportación de tierras raras de Brasil hacia China - Latinoamerica – Ansa
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