Brazilian and South Korean Agencies Sign Cooperation Agreement for the Sustainable Development of the Mining Sector

Strengthening international cooperation to advance the modernization and sustainable development of the mining sector. This is the aim of the memorandum of understanding signed by the Brazilian Mining Agency (ANM) and the Korea Mine Rehabilitation and Mineral Resources Corporation (KOMIR). The document was signed on Monday (July 27), in Brasília, Federal District, by ANM Director-General Mauro Sousa and KOMIR President Youngsik Hwang.

The memorandum establishes a cooperation agenda between the two institutions, including the exchange of knowledge and experience in areas such as regulation, mineral resources management, innovation, technological development and sustainability. It also provides for joint initiatives, seminars, technical studies and the establishment of a Joint Working Group (JWG) to coordinate implementation.

According to ANM Director-General Mauro Sousa, the partnership represents an important step in expanding the Agency’s international engagement. “This agreement marks the beginning of a new phase for the Agency as it expands its international presence and seeks partnerships that can contribute to the development of Brazil’s mining sector while also broadening the scope of ANM’s work,” he said.

The closer relationship comes at a strategic time for the global mining industry, marked by growing demand for critical and strategic minerals, which are essential to the energy transition and high-tech industries. South Korea is home to some of the world’s most advanced semiconductor, rechargeable battery, electric vehicle and electronics industries, while Brazil holds the world’s second-largest reserves of rare earth elements, which are essential to a range of high-value technologies.

KOMIR President Youngsik Hwang said the agreement lays the foundation for a lasting relationship. “We hope that, through this Memorandum of Understanding, we can promote growth and lay the groundwork for a long-term relationship between our two countries and between companies in both countries,” he said.

KOMIR Vice President Soonjin Kwon also highlighted South Korean companies’ interest in investing in Brazil. “We hope that, building on this document, our partnership will develop into a deep and close relationship that enables both institutions and both countries to create strong success stories in this field,” Kwon said.

"This agreement has the potential to serve as a model and reference for future international partnerships of the ANM, helping to expand the Agency's presence on the global stage and strengthen its institutional capabilities," said Gabriela Trida, ANM's International Relations Coordinator.