How Brazilian Critical Minerals Is Fast-Tracking Ema’s Rare Earths Permitting

Permitting Progress at Ema Rare Earths Project

Brazilian Critical Minerals Ltd (ASX – BCM) has provided a significant update on the permitting progress of its Ema rare earths project, located in Apui, Amazonas, Brazil. The company is advancing a two-pronged permitting strategy involving trial mining licences and a full-scale mining licence, both critical steps toward commercial development.

Currently, two trial mining licence applications, accompanied by final exploration reports, are under review by dedicated task forces within Brazil’s Mines Department (ANM). BCM has been invited to present its exploration findings directly to one of these task forces, a move designed to accelerate the approval process and demonstrate the project’s readiness.

Strategic Government and Community Support

Beyond regulatory progress, BCM has garnered robust support from local and state authorities. This was highlighted during recent community events, including the annual Apui agricultural show and a land title registration campaign, both attended by senior officials such as state members of parliament and federal senators. The Mayor of Apui, Marquinho, has pledged to upgrade the access road to the project site ahead of the wet season, effectively eliminating future infrastructure capital expenditure for BCM on this critical route.

The company’s Apui project manager, Aldemir Moreira, was honoured with local citizenship, underscoring BCM’s integration and positive impact within the community. This local goodwill is a valuable asset as BCM navigates the complex permitting landscape.

Looking Ahead – Full Mining Licence and Feasibility Study

BCM plans to submit a comprehensive mining licence application (PAE) that will incorporate a revised Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) and the results of a Bankable Feasibility Study (BFS), both expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026. The current MRE stands at an impressive 943 million tonnes of rare earth elements with metallurgical recoveries averaging 68%, positioning Ema as one of the world’s most promising ionic adsorbed clay deposits.

As the company advances its resource extension drilling program and finalises the BFS, the integration of these technical and economic studies will be pivotal in securing full mining approval and attracting further investment.

Managing Director Andrew Reid emphasised the importance of transparent engagement with regulators and the community, noting that the project’s growing profile has attracted recognition from multiple levels of government.