Rare earth minerals are crucial for technology and renewable energy, and the world is increasingly looking to Brazil to explore for these resources. Brazil has large reserves, second only to China, which has attracted investors with foreign support.

An analysis of National Mining Agency records shows a surge in rare earth exploration applications, with over 86% filed in the past three years. This includes 268 applications in the first half of 2026.

Further details on the story, including environmental concerns and the search for alternatives to China, are available from the source. The US and others are seeking these alternatives due to the importance of rare earth minerals in digital and defense technologies.