Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 21, Brazil’s government officially launched the National Mining Policy Council (Conselho Nacional de Política Mineral – CNPM) last week, more than three years after it was first announced, with a renewed focus on critical minerals and rare earths. The installation ceremony was attended by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Brazilian President Lula and Minister of Mines and Energy Alexandre Silveira during the first meeting of the National Mining Policy Council

The council was originally established under Decree No. 11,108 on June 29, 2022, but remained inactive until now. CNPM is composed of 18 federal ministers, chaired by Minister of Mines and Energy Alexandre Silveira, alongside the CEO of the Brazilian Geological Service (CPRM). Representatives from states, municipalities, civil society, and academic institutions with mining expertise are also included.

At its first meeting, the CNPM outlined plans to update Brazil’s National Mining Plan 2030, originally designed in 2011. The revised plan will guide the country’s mining policy and is expected to be released for public consultation in the coming months. President Lula requested an updated survey of Brazil’s mineral resources, highlighting the need for a comprehensive and structured national mining policy.

A key focus of the council is the creation of a working group on critical and strategic minerals. This group will propose public policies to develop domestic supply chains and establish a national strategy for these resources. The plan also emphasizes rare earth elements. Brazil, which once produced 2,200 metric tons of rare-earth oxide (REO) in 2016, saw output decline to about 20 metric tons in 2024, largely due to China’s dominant production capacity and pricing influence.

CNPM has established four specialized working groups to address major challenges in the mining sector: Inspection Fees and Financial Charges, Critical and Strategic Minerals, Mining and Sustainable Development, and Oversight of Mining Activities. The Oversight group will review inspection mechanisms and the role of the National Mining Agency (ANM).

By reactivating CNPM, Brazil aims to strengthen governance of its mining sector and enhance domestic capabilities for critical minerals. The council’s work is expected to support the development of policies that promote sustainable mining practices, improve regulatory oversight, and encourage the growth of local supply chains for strategic minerals.

The renewed focus on rare earths and other critical resources aligns with global trends toward securing reliable mineral supplies for high-tech, renewable energy, and industrial applications. Through CNPM, Brazil intends to modernize its mining policy framework, optimize resource management, and attract investment to expand domestic production of these essential minerals.

The council’s initiatives mark a significant step in positioning Brazil as a competitive player in the global mining sector, with the potential to contribute to regional and international supply chains for critical and strategic minerals.