en.Wedoany.com Reported - In the first five months of 2026, exports from Brazil's Minas Gerais state reached US$17.9 billion, with the mining sector making a significant contribution, particularly gold, iron ore, and ferroalloys. According to data from the Brazilian Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services, the state recorded a trade surplus of over US$10 billion during the same period, solidifying its position as Brazil's third-largest exporting state.
Total imports in the first five months amounted to US$7.8 billion, bringing Minas Gerais's total trade flow to US$25.7 billion. The state's exports accounted for 12% of Brazil's national export total.
Gold was the main driver of export growth during this period. Compared to the same period in 2025, international sales of gold increased by US$825.4 million, a rise of 75.8%.
Exports of other precious metal ores from the mining sector also surged, increasing by US$154.4 million, a year-on-year growth of 2,938.5%.
Mila Corrêa da Costa, Secretary of Economic Development for Minas Gerais, stated that these figures reflect the production sector's ability to adapt to changes in the international market.
"Minas Gerais has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in an increasingly dynamic international environment. Beyond showcasing the strength of the production sector, the results also indicate the state government's ongoing commitment to diversifying destinations, strengthening trade relations, and creating new opportunities for producers," she said.
Iron Ore, Gold, and Ferroalloys Lead May Exports
In May alone, Minas Gerais exported US$3.5 billion, making it Brazil's second-largest exporting state for the month, accounting for 11% of national exports.
The mining sector maintained its lead among export products. Iron ore accounted for 21.4% of the state's exports, gold for 10.3%, and ferroalloys for 7.4%.
Iron ore exports in May totaled US$752.7 million, consolidating the state's position as Brazil's leading exporter of this commodity. Gold exports reached US$361.6 million, and ferroalloy transactions amounted to US$260.2 million.
In May, products from Minas Gerais were exported to 148 countries. China remained the main trading partner, absorbing 35.6% of the state's exports, followed by the United States (9%), Canada (4.8%), the United Kingdom (3.3%), and Italy (3.2%).
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