US Negotiates Heavy Rare Earth Processing with Brazil to Strengthen Critical Mineral Supply Chain

Published: Feb 13, 2026 14:31

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US Assistant Secretary of State Caleb Orr stated that the US is actively negotiating with Brazil to develop critical mineral processing capabilities, with a focus on heavy rare earths. Orr said Brazil is an "important" partner in building a resilient Western supply chain. The US has invested in Brazil's Serra Verde and Aclara rare earth projects through the DFC to produce mixed rare earth carbonate containing dysprosium and terbium for use in permanent magnetic materials. Brazil holds the world's second-largest rare earth reserves but lacks processing capacity. Brazilian President Lula emphasized that foreign companies must invest in downstream facilities to achieve an end-to-end value chain.

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