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The government of Minas Gerais has launched the Lithium Valley Brazil initiative (Vale do Lítio) with the aim of developing cities in the Northeast and North regions of the state around the lithium production chain. The launch took place at an event held at the Nasdaq stock exchange in New York City on May 9, 2023.
The initiative aims to generate jobs and income for the populations of the two regions.
The cities included in the Lithium Valley are Araçuaí, Capelinha, Coronel Murta, Itaobim, Itinga, Malacacheta, Medina, Minas Novas, Pedra Azul, Virgem da Lapa, Teófilo Otoni, Turmalina, Rubelita, and Salinas. According to the government of Minas Gerais, these municipalities host the largest national lithium reserve, a mineral used in various applications, with the most important being the manufacturing of long-lasting batteries for electric vehicles.
Governor Romeu Zema emphasized that the project’s launch at Nasdaq represents a demonstration of Minas Gerais’ potential in the production of this strategic metal, which will play a fundamental role in the energy transition.
The objective is to transform the Jequitinhonha Valley into a technology hub for battery production and other value-added products.
The Lithium Valley project was conceived by Invest Minas in partnership with various state and municipal government agencies. Its focus is on formulating public policies to attract companies and investments, qualify the workforce, promote technology, and provide the necessary infrastructure for the region’s growth.
Although Brazil has a relatively small reserve compared to other countries such as Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Australia, China, Afghanistan, and India, it presents competitive advantages that enhance investments in the sector.
The lithium found in Minas Gerais is of high purity, facilitating its use in battery manufacturing, and can be produced in a more sustainable manner from an environmental and social perspective.
Studies conducted by the Brazilian Geological Survey (CPRM) indicate the existence of 45 deposits in the Lithium Valley with significant economic potential, which could increase the proven reserves of the mineral in the region by 20 times, ensuring a long-term supply of raw materials.
Research Source: Brasil Mineral
