Goiás state moves ahead with critical minerals policy

The state government of Goiás, an agricultural powerhouse in Brazil’s Center-West region, vaulted ahead of the federal government by approving its own framework for the exploitation of critical minerals.

Governor Ronaldo Caiado signed a law creating a state-level agency and development fund for the critical minerals sector, while also announcing a partnership with Japan for the exploration and processing of rare earths. Caiado hosted Japanese ambassador Teiji Hayashi at the state palace in Goiânia, sealing an agreement that will include site visits to Serra Verde — a producer of rare earth minerals in Minaçu — and a plant operated by Aclara Resources.