Brazilian Rare Earths Completes Regulatory Pathway for Bahia Pilot Plant Operations
Brazilian Rare Earths (ASX: BRE) has obtained the final operating permit required to commence pilot operations at its rare earth beneficiation and hydrometallurgy facility in Brazil.
The National Authority on Nuclear Safety (ANSN) granted Brazilian Rare Earths the final permit, completing the regulatory pathway for the pilot plant at the Camaçari Petrochemical Complex in Bahia.
Brazilian Rare Earths will begin pilot operations in mid-2026, using the facility to optimise processing pathways for high-grade and ultra-high grade mineralisation.
Final Barrier Removed
ANSN rigorously assessed the nuclear-related aspects of the pilot plant before granting the authorisation.
This approval removes the final barrier to commissioning the facility and demonstrates compliance with Brazil’s highest safety standards.
Brazilian Rare Earths now holds all permits needed to advance pilot-scale testing of its beneficiation and hydrometallurgy circuits, an achievement the company said reflects its early engagement with regulators and strong in-country relationships.
The pilot program will generate technical data to support the development of a downstream rare earth separation process and provide parameters for potential industrial-scale operations.
Strategic Industrial Setting
The Camaçari Petrochemical Complex, located about 260 kilometres northeast of the Monte Alto project, provides an industrial setting that delivers significant advantages.
The complex is Brazil’s largest chemical hub and offers access to world-class infrastructure including ports, power and transport networks.
Operating within Camaçari is expected to streamline permitting and shorten development timelines, with coordinated oversight from federal and state agencies.
The site also provides immediate access to process reagents from local suppliers, enabling cost savings and supply chain efficiencies.
A skilled workforce experienced in complex chemical and metallurgical operations further enhances the commercial benefits of the location.
Camaçari a ‘Deliberate Choice’
Chief executive officer Bernardo da Veiga said the decision to locate the pilot plant within Camaçari was “ a deliberate choice” central to the company’s strategy.
“Brazil’s largest petrochemical and industrial complex brings coordinated permitting, world-class infrastructure and a skilled workforce, all of which shorten timelines and lower risk,” Mr da Veiga said.
“This Federal authorisation highlights 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 permit will allow Brazilian Rare Earths to demonstrate its technical pathways in a controlled environment and supports the company’s ambition to move towards commercial production.