Brazil Declines US-Led Critical Minerals Alliance, Emphasizing Sovereignty and Broader Negotiations
Brazil chooses not to join the US-led critical minerals alliance, seeking to maintain control over its resources and pursue broader international agreements.
- • Brazil will not join the US alliance on critical minerals and rare earths.
- • The government views the US proposal as self-serving.
- • Brazil holds the second-largest reserves of critical minerals after China.
- • Negotiations with EU, China, and India are underway, with an agreement expected in India.
Key details
The Brazilian government has officially decided not to join the United States' proposed alliance on critical minerals and rare earths, essential components for advanced technologies and energy transition. Despite the US inviting 54 countries plus the European Union to form this coalition, Brazil sent only a low-level diplomat to a recent meeting, signaling its clear reluctance to participate.
According to a source within Brazil's government, the US proposal is considered a “straightjacket” primarily serving American interests, with concerns that it might restrict Brazil’s autonomy. Brazil holds the world's second-largest reserves of critical minerals after China and is determined to control the entire processing cycle of these resources rather than simply exporting raw materials — a strategic move to avoid past mistakes.
Looking beyond the US alliance, Brazil is actively negotiating with the European Union, China, and India to establish broader, more balanced partnerships. Brazilian President Lula is expected to sign an agreement on critical minerals during an upcoming trip to India, where ongoing discussions regarding the processing and management of these vital resources will continue.
This approach reflects Brazil’s strategic emphasis on maintaining sovereignty over its mineral wealth and fostering international cooperation that aligns with its economic and technological development goals.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
