Brazil is seeking closer cooperation with European countries to develop exploration and processing of critical minerals and rare earth elements, according to Brazil’s Ambassador to Germany, Rodrigo Baena Soares.
Speaking at a press conference in Hanover ahead of the Hannover Messe industrial technology fair, the ambassador said Europe could become a key partner in building supply chains for minerals essential to the global energy transition. However, he emphasised that Brazil aims to move beyond its traditional role as a raw materials exporter.
“It is very important that we do not have a traditional scheme of only exporting raw minerals,” Baena said. “We must think about adding value in Brazil and being part of the supply chain with technology transfer.”
Brazil is particularly interested in cooperation that includes advanced technologies and industrial expertise from European partners, especially Germany, to strengthen domestic capabilities in extraction, processing and manufacturing.
Although Brazil holds significant mineral reserves, the country has yet to establish itself as a global leader in the extraction and refining of many critical resources.
According to the Geological Survey of Brazil, the country possesses 94% of the world’s known niobium reserves, about 26% of global graphite reserves, and the third-largest nickel reserves worldwide with roughly 12%. Brazil also holds around 23% of global rare earth reserves.
Critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, copper, manganese and rare earth elements play a crucial role in technologies linked to the energy transition and advanced manufacturing. They are widely used in wind turbines, electric vehicle motors, electronics, and aerospace systems including satellites and defence technologies.
Brazil’s potential in the sector will be highlighted during Hannover Messe, which will take place from April 20 to 24 and will feature Brazil as the partner country for this year’s edition. Around 140 Brazilian exhibitors are expected to participate, presenting industrial technologies and innovations to international audiences.
As part of the event, Brazil plans to organise a dedicated session focused on critical minerals to showcase the country’s geological potential and attract investment.
The ambassador also pointed to the proposed free trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur as a framework that could strengthen cooperation in industrial development and resource supply chains.
Organisers of Hannover Messe say the evolving geopolitical environment and trade tensions globally create an opportunity for deeper economic cooperation between Europe and Latin America.
