en.Wedoany.com Reported - Canada's Spark Energy Minerals has announced an investment of 150 million BRL in the Vale do Jequitinhonha to advance the research and exploration of critical minerals. The project is expected to create approximately 100 direct jobs in the region.

This investment commitment was formalized through a letter of intent signed by the company, the Minas Gerais State Economic Development Secretariat (Sede-MG), and Invest Minas. The signing ceremony took place during the opening of the Brazil Lithium & Critical Minerals Summit 2026, held in Belo Horizonte, a conference focused on strategic mineral issues.

The funds will be allocated to the Projeto Arapaima, aimed at identifying and developing reserves of lithium, rare earths, and gallium. These minerals are widely used in the manufacturing of batteries, electric vehicles, electronic devices, renewable energy systems, and defense technologies.

The Minas Gerais state government stated that the new investment further consolidates the state's position as a primary destination for projects related to the global strategic mineral chain. The Vale do Jequitinhonha, particularly the area known as Vale do Lítio, concentrates initiatives aimed at expanding mineral production and attracting foreign capital.

Spark Energy Minerals noted that exploration potential for rare earths, gallium, and other high-value-added minerals for the technology sector has already been identified in the region. In the coming years, the company plans to advance through stages including geological studies, technical research, environmental licensing, and project financial structuring.

Mineral production is expected to begin in 2030, depending on study results and the necessary authorizations for project development.

Headquartered in Vancouver with operations in Belo Horizonte, the company currently holds mining rights covering over 91,000 hectares in the Lithium Valley, making it one of the largest holders of continuous strategic mineral exploration area in the region.

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