Brazilian Rare Earths receives approval to launch pilot plant in Brazil

Brazilian Rare Earths launches rare earths pilot plant in Bahia after ANSN approval, moving toward industrial-scale operations and producing magnets for robotics, EVs, and renewable energy.

Brazilian Rare Earths (ASX:BRE) is set to begin operations at its rare earths pilot plant and laboratory facility in Bahia in mid-2026, following final operating approval from Brazil’s National Authority on Nuclear Safety (ANSN).

The pilot plant will optimize beneficiation and hydrometallurgy processes for the company’s rare earth mineralization, while confirming key technical parameters and supporting downstream process development.

This pilot phase is a preparatory step for potential future industrial-scale operations, which could be located within the Camaçari Petrochemical Complex, 260 km northeast of the Monte Alto Project. Placing the plant within this established industrial hub is expected to streamline permitting, shorten development timelines, and enhance the commercial competitiveness of a future large-scale rare earths processing facility.

CEO Bernardo da Veiga highlighted that “this petrochemical and industrial complex, the largest in Brazil, provides coordinated permitting, infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, which shortens implementation timelines and reduces risk.”

He added, “This federal authorization reflects our strong government engagement and confirms we can operate to the highest safety standards as we move decisively from rare earth discovery to development.”

The ANSN, Brazil’s national nuclear safety authority, oversees nuclear-related components to the highest standards. Brazilian Rare Earths owns and operates a tier-one, district-scale rare earths province in northeastern Brazil.

Rare earths are critical for rapidly growing industries such as robotics, sustainable transportation, and renewable energy. Demand is rising, particularly for producing high-strength permanent magnets used in robotic actuators, electric vehicle motors, and wind turbine generators.

With this approval and the establishment of the pilot plant, Brazilian Rare Earths positions itself as a strategic player in the global rare earths supply chain, essential for the transition to more sustainable technologies.