Brazilian Mining Law: A Guide for Foreign Companies | D&Q Lawyers<\/title>\n<link href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Lato:ital,wght@0,100;0,300;0,400;0,700;0,900;1,100;1,300;1,400&display=swap\" rel=\"stylesheet\" \/>\n<style>\n .dq-page-wrap {\n margin-left: calc(-50vw + 50%);\n margin-right: calc(-50vw + 50%);\n width: 100vw;\n max-width: 100vw;\n overflow-x: hidden;\n }\n :root {\n --navy: #0d1b2a;\n --navy-mid: #1a2e45;\n --gold: #cb8569;\n --gold-light: #e09a7e;\n --cream: #f8f5f0;\n --warm-white: #fdfcfa;\n --text-dark: #1a1a1a;\n --text-mid: #4a4a4a;\n --text-light: #7a7a7a;\n --border: #e0d8cc;\n --red-soft: #7a2020;\n }\n *, *::before, *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n html { scroll-behavior: smooth; }\n body { font-family: 'Lato', sans-serif; background: var(--warm-white); color: var(--text-dark); line-height: 1.7; font-weight: 400; }\n\n \/* HERO *\/\n .hero { background: var(--navy); color: white; padding: 100px 40px 90px; position: relative; 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}\n .cta-inner h2 { font-size: 38px; font-weight: 300; color: var(--navy); margin-bottom: 20px; line-height: 1.2; }\n .cta-inner p { font-size: 17px; color: var(--text-mid); margin-bottom: 40px; line-height: 1.85; }\n\n @media (max-width: 760px) {\n .hero { padding: 70px 24px 64px; }\n .quickread-inner { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .intro-inner { grid-template-columns: 1fr; gap: 28px; }\n .intro-inner h2 { grid-column: 1; }\n .titles-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .obligations-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .env-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .foreign-inner { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .disputes-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .team-inner { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .titles-section, .obligations-section, .environmental-section, .foreign-section, .disputes-section, .team-section, .cta-section { padding: 60px 24px; }\n .intro-strip, .quickread { padding: 50px 24px; }\n }\n<\/style>\n<\/head>\n<body>\n<div class=\"dq-page-wrap\">\n\n\n<section class=\"hero\">\n <div class=\"hero-inner\">\n <div class=\"hero-label\">D&Q Lawyers \u00b7 Mining & Natural Resources<\/div>\n <h1>Brazilian Mining Law:<br><em>A Guide for Foreign Companies<\/em><\/h1>\n <p class=\"hero-sub\">\n Brazil holds the world's largest reserves of niobium and tantalite, and ranks among the top global producers of iron ore, bauxite and gold. Access to those resources is governed by a federal concession regime that is mandatory, highly regulated and closely enforced. Foreign companies must understand it before committing capital.\n <\/p>\n <a href=\"#contact\" class=\"btn-primary\">Get in Touch<\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"quickread\">\n <div class=\"quickread-inner\">\n <div class=\"quickread-title\">Quick Read<\/div>\n <div class=\"qr-item\"><div class=\"qr-dot\"><\/div><p><strong>The federal government owns the minerals:<\/strong> Under the Brazilian Constitution, all mineral resources belong to the Union. Private companies access them through a concession granted by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/anm\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" style=\"color:var(--gold-light);\">National Mining Agency (ANM)<\/a>, not through ownership of the surface land.<\/p><\/div>\n <div class=\"qr-item\"><div class=\"qr-dot\"><\/div><p><strong>Environmental licensing is a parallel process:<\/strong> A mining concession does not authorise commencement of operations. A separate environmental licence from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" style=\"color:var(--gold-light);\">IBAMA<\/a> or the relevant state authority is mandatory and often takes longer to obtain than the mining title itself.<\/p><\/div>\n <div class=\"qr-item\"><div class=\"qr-dot\"><\/div><p><strong>Foreign ownership is permitted but restricted:<\/strong> Foreign companies may not hold mining titles directly. Investment must be channelled through a Brazilian-incorporated legal entity, which raises corporate structuring considerations from the outset.<\/p><\/div>\n <div class=\"qr-item\"><div class=\"qr-dot\"><\/div><p><strong>Dam safety and community obligations are intensifying:<\/strong> Following the Mariana (2015) and Brumadinho (2019) disasters, Brazil significantly strengthened dam safety legislation and social liability rules. These obligations are now central to any mining operation.<\/p><\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"intro-strip\">\n <div class=\"intro-inner\">\n <h2>Brazil's mining sector operates under a federal concession system that is mandatory, non-delegable and subject to significant ongoing obligations.<\/h2>\n <div class=\"intro-col\">\n <p>The main legislative framework for mining in Brazil is the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/decreto-lei\/del0227.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mining Code<\/a> and a dense body of ANM regulations and normative instructions. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/constituicao\/constituicao.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Federal Constitution<\/a> vests ownership of all mineral resources in the federal government.<\/p>\n <p>The ANM is the federal agency responsible for regulating, supervising and granting mining rights. It maintains the national register of mining titles (SIGMINE) and enforces compliance with the technical, environmental and financial conditions attached to each title.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"intro-col\">\n <p>Mining activity in Brazil also engages an environmental licensing regime administered primarily by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IBAMA<\/a> at the federal level and by state environmental agencies (such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.meioambiente.mg.gov.br\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEMAD<\/a> in Minas Gerais and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.semas.pa.gov.br\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEMAS<\/a> in Para) at the state level. These two regulatory tracks, the ANM concession regime and the environmental licensing regime, operate independently and must both be navigated for a project to proceed lawfully.<\/p>\n <p>Foreign companies frequently underestimate the length of both processes, the ongoing compliance obligations attached to active titles, and the liability exposure arising from dam safety and community relations legislation. This guide covers the key issues across each of those areas.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"titles-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Mining Titles & Authorisations<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\">Types of mining rights in Brazil<\/h2>\n <div class=\"titles-grid\">\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><circle cx=\"11\" cy=\"11\" r=\"8\"\/><line x1=\"21\" y1=\"21\" x2=\"16.65\" y2=\"16.65\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Exploration Authorisation (<em>Alvar\u00e1 de Pesquisa<\/em>)<\/h3>\n <p>The first stage of the mining concession process. Granted by the ANM, it authorises detailed geological investigation of a defined area. The authorisation is valid for an initial period of 1 to 3 years (extendable) depending on the mineral and area size. It does not permit extraction. At the end of the research phase, the holder must submit a Final Research Report to the ANM demonstrating the economic viability of the deposit.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 22s8-4 8-10V5l-8-3-8 3v7c0 6 8 10 8 10z\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Mining Concession (<em>Concess\u00e3o de Lavra<\/em>)<\/h3>\n <p>The primary instrument authorising extraction and processing of minerals on a commercial scale. Granted by decree of the Minister of Mines and Energy on the recommendation of the ANM. A concession is granted for an indefinite period but is subject to conditions including the obligation to mine, payment of the CFEM royalty, adherence to the approved Mining Plan and compliance with environmental and safety obligations. Concessions can be revoked for failure to comply.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><rect x=\"2\" y=\"7\" width=\"20\" height=\"14\" rx=\"2\"\/><path d=\"M16 7V5a2 2 0 0 0-2-2h-4a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Simplified Licencing (<em>Licenciamento<\/em>)<\/h3>\n <p>A streamlined regime available for small-scale extraction of specified minerals (principally industrial minerals and construction aggregates) from landowners or with their consent. The licence is renewed annually and is limited to quantities and areas defined by ANM regulation. It does not require submission of a full geological research programme and is therefore faster to obtain, but it cannot be converted to a full concession.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M20.84 4.61a5.5 5.5 0 0 0-7.78 0L12 5.67l-1.06-1.06a5.5 5.5 0 0 0-7.78 7.78l1.06 1.06L12 21.23l7.78-7.78 1.06-1.06a5.5 5.5 0 0 0 0-7.78z\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Garimpeiro Permit (<em>Permiss\u00e3o de Lavra Garimpeira<\/em>)<\/h3>\n <p>A distinct regime permitting artisanal and small-scale mining of gold, diamonds, coloured gemstones and certain other minerals. Available only to Brazilian nationals or cooperatives. Foreign companies cannot hold garimpeiro permits directly. However, they may structure offtake or processing agreements with permit holders, subject to careful legal review of chain-of-custody and supply chain due diligence obligations under Brazilian and international anti-money laundering standards.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 9l9-7 9 7v11a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2z\"\/><polyline points=\"9 22 9 12 15 12 15 22\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Monopoly Minerals<\/h3>\n <p>Certain minerals are reserved for federal exploitation under a state monopoly regime or require special authorisation. Nuclear minerals (uranium, thorium) are subject to exclusive federal control under <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l7781.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 7,781\/1989<\/a> and may only be mined by or in partnership with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.inb.gov.br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">INB (Ind\u00fastrias Nucleares do Brasil)<\/a>. Potassium and other strategic minerals may be subject to specific restrictions depending on security classifications in force at the time of application.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"19\"\/><line x1=\"5\" y1=\"12\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"12\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Transfer & Assignment of Titles<\/h3>\n <p>Mining titles may be transferred between entities, but only with prior authorisation from the ANM. Any change in control of the title-holding entity (including share transfers at the parent level that result in a change of control of the Brazilian entity) may trigger an ANM notification or consent requirement. This is a common oversight in M&A transactions involving mining assets in Brazil and can expose buyers to significant regulatory risk if not addressed in pre-closing due diligence.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <p style=\"margin-top:24px;font-size:15px;color:var(--text-light);font-style:italic;\">Note: Indigenous lands, quilombola territories and areas subject to environmental protection designations impose additional restrictions or outright prohibitions on mining activity. Verification of land status is a prerequisite to any application or acquisition.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"obligations-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Ongoing Obligations<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\">What every concession holder must comply with<\/h2>\n <p class=\"obligations-intro\">Holding a mining title in Brazil is not a passive right. The ANM imposes a continuing set of technical, financial, safety and social obligations that apply throughout the life of the concession. Failure to comply can result in revocation.<\/p>\n <div class=\"obligations-grid\">\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>CFEM Royalty<\/h4>\n <p>The Financial Compensation for the Exploitation of Mineral Resources (CFEM) is a royalty payable on the net revenue from the sale of extracted minerals. Rates vary by mineral: 3.5% for iron ore, 3% for gold, 2% for bauxite, 2% for manganese, 1% for most construction materials. Since 2017, the base is gross revenue less taxes and freight (not net income), increasing the effective cost. CFEM must be declared and paid monthly through the ANM's online system.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Annual Mining Report (RAM)<\/h4>\n <p>All concession holders must submit an Annual Mining Report to the ANM covering production volumes, mineral reserve estimates, workforce data, investments made during the year, and status of environmental licences. Failure to submit on time attracts fines and can be grounds for suspension of the title. The RAM also feeds the national mining statistics published by the ANM.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Obligation to Mine<\/h4>\n <p>A mining concession imposes a positive obligation to carry out mining activity within the concession area. Extended periods of inactivity without ANM authorisation (generally more than 6 consecutive months) constitute grounds for revocation. Companies holding dormant concessions must apply for a formal suspension of activities (interrup\u00e7\u00e3o tempor\u00e1ria) to protect the title, demonstrating a legitimate technical or economic reason for the pause.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Mining Licence Fees (TAH)<\/h4>\n <p>Concession holders are required to pay the Taxa de Autoriza\u00e7\u00e3o para Pesquisa e Lavra (TAH), an annual fee charged by the ANM based on the area of the concession and the type of title held. Failure to pay the TAH is a compliance breach that can result in suspension of the title and, ultimately, in a tax debt being registered against the concession holder. The ANM may refer unpaid TAH debts for federal enforcement proceedings. For further detail see our <a href=\"https:\/\/lawsofbrazil.com\/mining-law\/#:~:text=advantage%E2%80%9D%20to%20others.-,Mining%20licence%20fees,be%20filed%20by%20the%20tax%20authorities%20seeking%20enforcement%20of%20the%20debt.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">mining licence fees overview on LawsofBrazil<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Dam Safety (PNSB)<\/h4>\n <p>Following the enactment of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/_ato2019-2022\/2020\/lei\/l14066.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 14,066\/2020<\/a> (the National Dam Safety Policy), all operators of mining tailings dams must register the structure with the ANM, prepare a Dam Safety Plan (PSB), appoint a technically responsible engineer, and maintain a Flood Action Emergency Plan (PAE). Dams classified in higher risk categories face more stringent monitoring, inspection and reporting obligations, including real-time instrumentation.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Mine Closure Plan<\/h4>\n <h4 style=\"color:var(--gold);font-size:16px;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:8px;\">Mine Closure Plan<\/h4>\n <p>Every concession holder must maintain a current and funded closure plan (Plano de Fechamento de Mina) approved by the ANM. The plan must address environmental rehabilitation, tailings management, social impacts on the surrounding community and financial provisioning for closure costs. The ANM has been increasing its scrutiny of the financial adequacy of closure provisions, particularly following failures at large operations.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Health & Safety Obligations<\/h4>\n <p>Mining operations are subject to occupational health and safety regulations administered jointly by the ANM and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/trabalho-e-emprego\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ministry of Labour<\/a>. Specific normative instructions govern underground mining, explosives handling, slope stability monitoring, dust and noise exposure, and personal protective equipment. Workplace accidents must be reported to the ANM and may trigger inspections. Repeated incidents are grounds for suspension of operations.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Community & Social Obligations<\/h4>\n <p>Concession holders operating near communities, particularly traditional, indigenous or quilombola communities, are subject to prior consultation obligations under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilo.org\/dyn\/normlex\/en\/f?p=NORMLEXPUB:12100:0::NO::P12100_ILO_CODE:C169\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ILO Convention 169<\/a> (ratified by Brazil in 2002) and the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/constituicao\/constituicao.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Federal Constitution<\/a>. The failure to conduct adequate prior consultation is increasingly invoked in judicial challenges to ANM titles and environmental licences, and has resulted in injunctions suspending mining operations.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Environmental Compliance<\/h4>\n <p>Environmental licences issued by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IBAMA<\/a> or state agencies impose a programme of conditions (condicionantes) that must be satisfied throughout operations. These typically include monitoring programmes for water quality, flora, fauna and soil, revegetation and progressive rehabilitation of worked-out areas, and annual compliance reports. Conditions evolve and are reassessed at each licence renewal, which typically occurs every 4 to 6 years.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Deforestation & Land Use<\/h4>\n <p>Any vegetation clearing required for mining operations within areas of the Atlantic Forest or Amazon biome must comply with the Native Vegetation Protection Law (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/_ato2011-2014\/2012\/lei\/l12651.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lei 12,651\/2012<\/a>, the Forest Code). Deforestation authorisations are issued separately by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IBAMA<\/a> or state agencies. Unlicensed clearing is a strict-liability environmental offence under <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l9605.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 9,605\/1998<\/a> and may attract criminal liability for company officers in addition to administrative sanctions.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"obligation-note\">\n <strong>Compliance cost context:<\/strong> The total regulatory compliance cost for a producing mining operation in Brazil, covering CFEM payments, ANM reporting, dam safety obligations, environmental licence conditions, workforce safety programmes and community relations, is a significant component of operating expenditure. Foreign companies building financial models for Brazilian mining investments frequently underestimate this cost. Legal and regulatory counsel should be engaged before any financial model is finalised.\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"environmental-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Environmental Licensing<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\">The parallel process that determines whether a mine can operate<\/h2>\n <div class=\"env-grid\">\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Preliminary Licence (<em>Licenca Previa<\/em>, LP)<\/h3>\n <p>The first of three environmental licences required for a mining project of significant environmental impact. The LP attests to the environmental viability of the project and approves its basic concept and location. Obtaining it requires preparation and public consultation of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA\/RIMA). Timelines are highly variable but rarely less than 2 to 3 years for large projects, and commonly longer.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Installation Licence (<em>Licenca de Instalacao<\/em>, LI)<\/h3>\n <p>Issued once the LP has been obtained and the detailed project design is approved. The LI authorises construction of the mine infrastructure, processing plant and tailings facilities. It is conditional on fulfilment of conditions imposed at the LP stage. It is during the LI phase that the company implements the environmental programmes and monitoring systems specified in the EIA conditions.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Operating Licence (<em>Licenca de Operacao<\/em>, LO)<\/h3>\n <p>Authorises the commencement of mining operations. It is only issued after the licensing authority verifies that the installation conditions have been met and the required environmental control systems are operational. The LO must be renewed periodically (typically every 4 to 6 years for mining) and conditions are reassessed at each renewal. A mine cannot lawfully operate without a valid LO.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Federal vs State Licensing<\/h3>\n <p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IBAMA<\/a> is the competent authority for projects with significant national or multi-state environmental impacts, including mines in federal protected areas and projects in certain biomes. State environmental agencies handle the majority of mining projects. Which authority applies depends on the location and nature of the project and must be determined early. Choosing the wrong authority can invalidate licences already obtained and require restarting the process.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Indigenous & Traditional Lands<\/h3>\n <p>Mining activity in or directly affecting indigenous lands is prohibited without specific Congressional authorisation under the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/constituicao\/constituicao.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Federal Constitution<\/a>. Proximity to indigenous territories triggers mandatory consultation obligations and, in practice, significantly complicates the environmental licensing process for nearby projects. The legal boundaries of indigenous territories must be confirmed through FUNAI before any application is filed.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Environmental Liability<\/h3>\n <p>Brazil's Environmental Crimes Law (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l9605.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 9,605\/1998<\/a>) imposes criminal liability on company officers for environmental offences committed on their watch, even without direct personal participation. Administrative penalties include fines, interdiction of activities and embargoes on the affected area. Civil liability for environmental damage is strict and not limited by the amount of any administrative fine paid. The post-Brumadinho legislative reforms significantly increased penalties and reduced procedural barriers to enforcement.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"foreign-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"foreign-inner\">\n <div class=\"foreign-content\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Foreign Investment Constraints<\/div>\n <h2>Restrictions and structuring considerations foreign investors most often underestimate<\/h2>\n <p>The Brazilian Constitution prohibits foreign companies from holding mining titles directly. All exploration authorisations and mining concessions must be held by a legal entity incorporated in Brazil (typically a <em>sociedade limitada<\/em> or <em>sociedade an\u00f4nima<\/em>). Establishing that entity, registering it with the ANM and ensuring it meets Brazilian corporate governance requirements are prerequisites to any title application.<\/p>\n <p>Beyond the corporate structure requirement, foreign investors face a range of additional regulatory considerations that arise at different stages of the project lifecycle. These are among the most commonly misunderstood by foreign companies entering the Brazilian mining sector for the first time.<\/p>\n <p>The following issues warrant specific legal advice before any investment decision is made or any commercial arrangement is entered into.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <ul class=\"risk-list\">\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Foreign ownership of rural land (often required for mining access) is subject to area limits and requires <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/incra\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">INCRA<\/a> notification and compliance with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l5709.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 5,709\/1971<\/a><\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Repatriation of capital and dividends is generally permitted but must be registered with the Central Bank of Brazil (BCB) in the RDE-IED system before funds are remitted<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Intercompany loans from foreign parent companies attract the IOF financial operations tax and must comply with transfer pricing and thin capitalisation rules enforced by the Federal Revenue (Receita Federal)<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>ANM title transfers triggered by changes of control at the parent level require prior ANM consent; proceeding without consent may invalidate the transfer and expose the acquirer to fines<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Export of mineral commodities may be subject to export tax (ICMS exemptions vary by state) and the CFEM is calculated on export revenue, requiring accurate and auditable export invoicing<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Anti-corruption compliance: Brazil's Clean Company Act (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/_ato2011-2014\/2013\/lei\/l12846.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 12,846\/2013<\/a>) imposes strict liability on companies for acts of corruption by employees or agents, including in interactions with licensing authorities and regulatory agencies<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"disputes-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Disputes & Enforcement<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\">What foreign companies need to know about mining disputes in Brazil<\/h2>\n <div class=\"disputes-grid\">\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 22s8-4 8-10V5l-8-3-8 3v7c0 6 8 10 8 10z\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Federal court jurisdiction<\/h3>\n <p>Disputes involving ANM decisions, federal environmental licences and constitutional mining rights fall within the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts (<em>Justi\u00e7a Federal<\/em>). Challenges to ANM administrative decisions must first exhaust the ANM's internal appeals process before judicial review. The Federal Courts have specialist environmental chambers in several states that handle mining-related cases with increasing speed and consistency.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"1\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"23\"\/><path d=\"M17 5H9.5a3.5 3.5 0 0 0 0 7h5a3.5 3.5 0 0 1 0 7H6\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Environmental civil liability<\/h3>\n <p>Civil liability for environmental damage under Brazilian law is strict, joint and several, and not subject to any cap. Claims can be brought by the federal or state government (<em>Minist\u00e9rio P\u00fablico<\/em>), NGOs or affected communities. The Mariana and Brumadinho disasters produced some of the largest environmental reparation settlements in Brazilian history and set precedents for how courts value long-term environmental and social harm in mining contexts.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M17 21v-2a4 4 0 0 0-4-4H5a4 4 0 0 0-4 4v2\"\/><circle cx=\"9\" cy=\"7\" r=\"4\"\/><path d=\"M23 21v-2a4 4 0 0 0-3-3.87\"\/><path d=\"M16 3.13a4 4 0 0 1 0 7.75\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>ANM administrative sanctions<\/h3>\n <p>The ANM has broad powers to impose administrative sanctions for non-compliance, including fines, suspension of operations, interdiction of specific facilities and, in serious cases, cancellation of the mining title. ANM fines have increased significantly since 2017 and can be applied per violation and per day of ongoing non-compliance. Sanctions are published in the Official Gazette and become part of the public record of the title.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><rect x=\"2\" y=\"3\" width=\"20\" height=\"14\" rx=\"2\"\/><line x1=\"8\" y1=\"21\" x2=\"16\" y2=\"21\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"21\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Arbitration for commercial disputes<\/h3>\n <p>Mining joint ventures, shareholder agreements and offtake contracts between private parties routinely include arbitration clauses. The Brazilian Arbitration Act (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l9307.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 9,307\/1996<\/a>) is well-developed and widely used. The most common seats for Brazil-related mining arbitrations are S\u00e3o Paulo (CAM-CCBC, CAMARB), ICC Paris and London. Disputes with the ANM or environmental agencies, however, cannot be resolved by arbitration and must go through the administrative and federal court system.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><path d=\"M12 6v6l4 2\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Criminal liability for officers<\/h3>\n <p>The Environmental Crimes Law (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l9605.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 9,605\/1998<\/a>) and the Clean Company Act create personal criminal exposure for company directors and officers for environmental offences and corruption committed in connection with mining operations. Brazilian criminal law permits preventive detention of suspects during investigations. Foreign executives of Brazilian mining subsidiaries should be aware that travel to Brazil during an active investigation carries risk, and Brazilian courts have issued international arrest warrants in mining-related cases.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M14 2H6a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v16a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h12a2 2 0 0 0 2-2V8z\"\/><polyline points=\"14 2 14 8 20 8\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Due diligence on acquisition<\/h3>\n <p>Mining M&A transactions require comprehensive legal due diligence covering ANM title status and encumbrances, environmental licence conditions and compliance history, dam safety classification and outstanding ANM requirements, surface rights and land access agreements, community consultation history, CFEM payment records and any outstanding debts to the ANM or environmental agencies. Buyers who proceed without thorough due diligence regularly inherit liabilities that were not disclosed or not apparent from public records.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"team-section\">\n <div class=\"team-inner\">\n <div class=\"team-img-wrap\">\n <a href=\"https:\/\/www.deqlaw.com.br\/en\/profissionais\/fabiano-deffenti\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" style=\"display:block;\">\n <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.deqlaw.com.br\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fabiano-300x350-1.png\" alt=\"Fabiano Deffenti, Senior Partner\" style=\"width:100%;display:block;\" \/>\n <\/a>\n <div style=\"padding:16px 4px 0;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:14px;\">\n <div>\n <strong style=\"display:block;font-size:17px;font-weight:600;color:var(--navy);margin-bottom:2px;\">Fabiano Deffenti<\/strong>\n <span style=\"font-size:14px;color:var(--gold);\">Senior Partner<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"team-content\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Our Team<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\" style=\"font-size:34px;\">Mining and natural resources experience for international businesses<\/h2>\n <p>Fabiano Deffenti is the senior partner of D&Q Lawyers and one of the few lawyers in the world admitted to practise in Brazil (as an <em>advogado<\/em>), Australia (as a solicitor), New Zealand (as a barrister and solicitor) and New York (as an attorney-at-law). He has extensive experience advising foreign companies on entering and operating in Brazil, including on regulatory, corporate and transactional matters across extractive industries and natural resources.<\/p>\n <p>Fabiano is the editor of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawsofbrazil.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LawsofBrazil.com<\/a> and co-editor of <em>Introduction to Brazilian Law<\/em> (Wolters Kluwer, 1st ed. 2011; 2nd ed. 2016). He holds a Bachelor of Laws (with Honours) and a Bachelor of Business (International) (with Distinction) from the Queensland University of Technology.<\/p>\n <p>D&Q Lawyers advises on the full lifecycle of mining projects in Brazil, from initial title due diligence and ANM applications through to environmental licensing, joint venture structuring, M&A transactions and regulatory compliance.<\/p>\n <a href=\"https:\/\/www.deqlaw.com.br\/en\/profissionais\/\" class=\"btn-primary\" style=\"text-decoration:none;\">Meet the Full Team<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"cta-section\" id=\"contact\">\n <div class=\"cta-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\" style=\"justify-content:center;\">Get Advice<\/div>\n <h2>Investing in Brazilian mining?<\/h2>\n <p>We can advise on mining title due diligence and acquisition, ANM applications and compliance, environmental licensing, joint venture structuring and dispute resolution. Initial enquiries are always welcome.<\/p>\n <div style=\"margin-top:20px;padding:36px 44px;background:var(--warm-white);border:1px solid var(--border);display:inline-block;min-width:320px;\">\n <div style=\"font-size:12px;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:2px;color:var(--text-light);margin-bottom:12px;\">Send us an email<\/div>\n <a href=\"mailto:info@deqlaw.com.br\" style=\"font-size:24px;font-weight:300;color:var(--navy);text-decoration:none;display:block;margin-bottom:16px;\">info@deqlaw.com.br<\/a>\n <a href=\"mailto:info@deqlaw.com.br\" class=\"btn-primary\" style=\"text-decoration:none;\">Send Email Now<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <p style=\"margin-top:20px;font-size:13px;color:var(--text-light);\">This page is a summary only and does not constitute legal advice. Specific advice should be sought before taking any action in relation to Brazilian mining regulation.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/body>\n<\/html><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":4886,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5866","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n<title>Brazilian Mining Law | A Guide for Foreign Companies - D&Q Lawyers<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Brazilian mining law guide for foreigners. 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\n\n\n\n\nBrazilian Mining Law: A Guide for Foreign Companies | D&Q Lawyers<\/title>\n<link href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Lato:ital,wght@0,100;0,300;0,400;0,700;0,900;1,100;1,300;1,400&display=swap\" rel=\"stylesheet\" \/>\n<style>\n .dq-page-wrap {\n margin-left: calc(-50vw + 50%);\n margin-right: calc(-50vw + 50%);\n width: 100vw;\n max-width: 100vw;\n overflow-x: hidden;\n }\n :root {\n --navy: #0d1b2a;\n --navy-mid: #1a2e45;\n --gold: #cb8569;\n --gold-light: #e09a7e;\n --cream: #f8f5f0;\n --warm-white: #fdfcfa;\n --text-dark: #1a1a1a;\n --text-mid: #4a4a4a;\n --text-light: #7a7a7a;\n --border: #e0d8cc;\n --red-soft: #7a2020;\n }\n *, *::before, *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n html { scroll-behavior: smooth; }\n body { font-family: 'Lato', sans-serif; background: var(--warm-white); color: var(--text-dark); line-height: 1.7; font-weight: 400; }\n\n \/* HERO *\/\n .hero { background: var(--navy); color: white; padding: 100px 40px 90px; 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}\n .cta-inner .section-label::before { display: none; }\n .cta-inner h2 { font-size: 38px; font-weight: 300; color: var(--navy); margin-bottom: 20px; line-height: 1.2; }\n .cta-inner p { font-size: 17px; color: var(--text-mid); margin-bottom: 40px; line-height: 1.85; }\n\n @media (max-width: 760px) {\n .hero { padding: 70px 24px 64px; }\n .quickread-inner { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .intro-inner { grid-template-columns: 1fr; gap: 28px; }\n .intro-inner h2 { grid-column: 1; }\n .titles-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .obligations-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .env-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .foreign-inner { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .disputes-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .team-inner { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .titles-section, .obligations-section, .environmental-section, .foreign-section, .disputes-section, .team-section, .cta-section { padding: 60px 24px; }\n .intro-strip, .quickread { padding: 50px 24px; }\n }\n<\/style>\n<\/head>\n<body>\n<div class=\"dq-page-wrap\">\n\n\n<section class=\"hero\">\n <div class=\"hero-inner\">\n <div class=\"hero-label\">D&Q Lawyers \u00b7 Mining & Natural Resources<\/div>\n <h1>Brazilian Mining Law:<br><em>A Guide for Foreign Companies<\/em><\/h1>\n <p class=\"hero-sub\">\n Brazil holds the world's largest reserves of niobium and tantalite, and ranks among the top global producers of iron ore, bauxite and gold. Access to those resources is governed by a federal concession regime that is mandatory, highly regulated and closely enforced. Foreign companies must understand it before committing capital.\n <\/p>\n <a href=\"#contact\" class=\"btn-primary\">Get in Touch<\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"quickread\">\n <div class=\"quickread-inner\">\n <div class=\"quickread-title\">Quick Read<\/div>\n <div class=\"qr-item\"><div class=\"qr-dot\"><\/div><p><strong>The federal government owns the minerals:<\/strong> Under the Brazilian Constitution, all mineral resources belong to the Union. Private companies access them through a concession granted by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/anm\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" style=\"color:var(--gold-light);\">National Mining Agency (ANM)<\/a>, not through ownership of the surface land.<\/p><\/div>\n <div class=\"qr-item\"><div class=\"qr-dot\"><\/div><p><strong>Environmental licensing is a parallel process:<\/strong> A mining concession does not authorise commencement of operations. A separate environmental licence from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" style=\"color:var(--gold-light);\">IBAMA<\/a> or the relevant state authority is mandatory and often takes longer to obtain than the mining title itself.<\/p><\/div>\n <div class=\"qr-item\"><div class=\"qr-dot\"><\/div><p><strong>Foreign ownership is permitted but restricted:<\/strong> Foreign companies may not hold mining titles directly. Investment must be channelled through a Brazilian-incorporated legal entity, which raises corporate structuring considerations from the outset.<\/p><\/div>\n <div class=\"qr-item\"><div class=\"qr-dot\"><\/div><p><strong>Dam safety and community obligations are intensifying:<\/strong> Following the Mariana (2015) and Brumadinho (2019) disasters, Brazil significantly strengthened dam safety legislation and social liability rules. These obligations are now central to any mining operation.<\/p><\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"intro-strip\">\n <div class=\"intro-inner\">\n <h2>Brazil's mining sector operates under a federal concession system that is mandatory, non-delegable and subject to significant ongoing obligations.<\/h2>\n <div class=\"intro-col\">\n <p>The main legislative framework for mining in Brazil is the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/decreto-lei\/del0227.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mining Code<\/a> and a dense body of ANM regulations and normative instructions. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/constituicao\/constituicao.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Federal Constitution<\/a> vests ownership of all mineral resources in the federal government.<\/p>\n <p>The ANM is the federal agency responsible for regulating, supervising and granting mining rights. It maintains the national register of mining titles (SIGMINE) and enforces compliance with the technical, environmental and financial conditions attached to each title.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"intro-col\">\n <p>Mining activity in Brazil also engages an environmental licensing regime administered primarily by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IBAMA<\/a> at the federal level and by state environmental agencies (such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.meioambiente.mg.gov.br\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEMAD<\/a> in Minas Gerais and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.semas.pa.gov.br\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEMAS<\/a> in Para) at the state level. These two regulatory tracks, the ANM concession regime and the environmental licensing regime, operate independently and must both be navigated for a project to proceed lawfully.<\/p>\n <p>Foreign companies frequently underestimate the length of both processes, the ongoing compliance obligations attached to active titles, and the liability exposure arising from dam safety and community relations legislation. This guide covers the key issues across each of those areas.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"titles-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Mining Titles & Authorisations<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\">Types of mining rights in Brazil<\/h2>\n <div class=\"titles-grid\">\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><circle cx=\"11\" cy=\"11\" r=\"8\"\/><line x1=\"21\" y1=\"21\" x2=\"16.65\" y2=\"16.65\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Exploration Authorisation (<em>Alvar\u00e1 de Pesquisa<\/em>)<\/h3>\n <p>The first stage of the mining concession process. Granted by the ANM, it authorises detailed geological investigation of a defined area. The authorisation is valid for an initial period of 1 to 3 years (extendable) depending on the mineral and area size. It does not permit extraction. At the end of the research phase, the holder must submit a Final Research Report to the ANM demonstrating the economic viability of the deposit.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 22s8-4 8-10V5l-8-3-8 3v7c0 6 8 10 8 10z\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Mining Concession (<em>Concess\u00e3o de Lavra<\/em>)<\/h3>\n <p>The primary instrument authorising extraction and processing of minerals on a commercial scale. Granted by decree of the Minister of Mines and Energy on the recommendation of the ANM. A concession is granted for an indefinite period but is subject to conditions including the obligation to mine, payment of the CFEM royalty, adherence to the approved Mining Plan and compliance with environmental and safety obligations. Concessions can be revoked for failure to comply.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><rect x=\"2\" y=\"7\" width=\"20\" height=\"14\" rx=\"2\"\/><path d=\"M16 7V5a2 2 0 0 0-2-2h-4a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Simplified Licencing (<em>Licenciamento<\/em>)<\/h3>\n <p>A streamlined regime available for small-scale extraction of specified minerals (principally industrial minerals and construction aggregates) from landowners or with their consent. The licence is renewed annually and is limited to quantities and areas defined by ANM regulation. It does not require submission of a full geological research programme and is therefore faster to obtain, but it cannot be converted to a full concession.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M20.84 4.61a5.5 5.5 0 0 0-7.78 0L12 5.67l-1.06-1.06a5.5 5.5 0 0 0-7.78 7.78l1.06 1.06L12 21.23l7.78-7.78 1.06-1.06a5.5 5.5 0 0 0 0-7.78z\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Garimpeiro Permit (<em>Permiss\u00e3o de Lavra Garimpeira<\/em>)<\/h3>\n <p>A distinct regime permitting artisanal and small-scale mining of gold, diamonds, coloured gemstones and certain other minerals. Available only to Brazilian nationals or cooperatives. Foreign companies cannot hold garimpeiro permits directly. However, they may structure offtake or processing agreements with permit holders, subject to careful legal review of chain-of-custody and supply chain due diligence obligations under Brazilian and international anti-money laundering standards.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 9l9-7 9 7v11a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2z\"\/><polyline points=\"9 22 9 12 15 12 15 22\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Monopoly Minerals<\/h3>\n <p>Certain minerals are reserved for federal exploitation under a state monopoly regime or require special authorisation. Nuclear minerals (uranium, thorium) are subject to exclusive federal control under <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l7781.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 7,781\/1989<\/a> and may only be mined by or in partnership with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.inb.gov.br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">INB (Ind\u00fastrias Nucleares do Brasil)<\/a>. Potassium and other strategic minerals may be subject to specific restrictions depending on security classifications in force at the time of application.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"title-card\">\n <svg class=\"title-card-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"19\"\/><line x1=\"5\" y1=\"12\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"12\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Transfer & Assignment of Titles<\/h3>\n <p>Mining titles may be transferred between entities, but only with prior authorisation from the ANM. Any change in control of the title-holding entity (including share transfers at the parent level that result in a change of control of the Brazilian entity) may trigger an ANM notification or consent requirement. This is a common oversight in M&A transactions involving mining assets in Brazil and can expose buyers to significant regulatory risk if not addressed in pre-closing due diligence.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <p style=\"margin-top:24px;font-size:15px;color:var(--text-light);font-style:italic;\">Note: Indigenous lands, quilombola territories and areas subject to environmental protection designations impose additional restrictions or outright prohibitions on mining activity. Verification of land status is a prerequisite to any application or acquisition.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"obligations-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Ongoing Obligations<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\">What every concession holder must comply with<\/h2>\n <p class=\"obligations-intro\">Holding a mining title in Brazil is not a passive right. The ANM imposes a continuing set of technical, financial, safety and social obligations that apply throughout the life of the concession. Failure to comply can result in revocation.<\/p>\n <div class=\"obligations-grid\">\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>CFEM Royalty<\/h4>\n <p>The Financial Compensation for the Exploitation of Mineral Resources (CFEM) is a royalty payable on the net revenue from the sale of extracted minerals. Rates vary by mineral: 3.5% for iron ore, 3% for gold, 2% for bauxite, 2% for manganese, 1% for most construction materials. Since 2017, the base is gross revenue less taxes and freight (not net income), increasing the effective cost. CFEM must be declared and paid monthly through the ANM's online system.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Annual Mining Report (RAM)<\/h4>\n <p>All concession holders must submit an Annual Mining Report to the ANM covering production volumes, mineral reserve estimates, workforce data, investments made during the year, and status of environmental licences. Failure to submit on time attracts fines and can be grounds for suspension of the title. The RAM also feeds the national mining statistics published by the ANM.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Obligation to Mine<\/h4>\n <p>A mining concession imposes a positive obligation to carry out mining activity within the concession area. Extended periods of inactivity without ANM authorisation (generally more than 6 consecutive months) constitute grounds for revocation. Companies holding dormant concessions must apply for a formal suspension of activities (interrup\u00e7\u00e3o tempor\u00e1ria) to protect the title, demonstrating a legitimate technical or economic reason for the pause.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Mining Licence Fees (TAH)<\/h4>\n <p>Concession holders are required to pay the Taxa de Autoriza\u00e7\u00e3o para Pesquisa e Lavra (TAH), an annual fee charged by the ANM based on the area of the concession and the type of title held. Failure to pay the TAH is a compliance breach that can result in suspension of the title and, ultimately, in a tax debt being registered against the concession holder. The ANM may refer unpaid TAH debts for federal enforcement proceedings. For further detail see our <a href=\"https:\/\/lawsofbrazil.com\/mining-law\/#:~:text=advantage%E2%80%9D%20to%20others.-,Mining%20licence%20fees,be%20filed%20by%20the%20tax%20authorities%20seeking%20enforcement%20of%20the%20debt.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">mining licence fees overview on LawsofBrazil<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Dam Safety (PNSB)<\/h4>\n <p>Following the enactment of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/_ato2019-2022\/2020\/lei\/l14066.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 14,066\/2020<\/a> (the National Dam Safety Policy), all operators of mining tailings dams must register the structure with the ANM, prepare a Dam Safety Plan (PSB), appoint a technically responsible engineer, and maintain a Flood Action Emergency Plan (PAE). Dams classified in higher risk categories face more stringent monitoring, inspection and reporting obligations, including real-time instrumentation.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Mine Closure Plan<\/h4>\n <h4 style=\"color:var(--gold);font-size:16px;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:8px;\">Mine Closure Plan<\/h4>\n <p>Every concession holder must maintain a current and funded closure plan (Plano de Fechamento de Mina) approved by the ANM. The plan must address environmental rehabilitation, tailings management, social impacts on the surrounding community and financial provisioning for closure costs. The ANM has been increasing its scrutiny of the financial adequacy of closure provisions, particularly following failures at large operations.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Health & Safety Obligations<\/h4>\n <p>Mining operations are subject to occupational health and safety regulations administered jointly by the ANM and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/trabalho-e-emprego\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ministry of Labour<\/a>. Specific normative instructions govern underground mining, explosives handling, slope stability monitoring, dust and noise exposure, and personal protective equipment. Workplace accidents must be reported to the ANM and may trigger inspections. Repeated incidents are grounds for suspension of operations.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Community & Social Obligations<\/h4>\n <p>Concession holders operating near communities, particularly traditional, indigenous or quilombola communities, are subject to prior consultation obligations under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilo.org\/dyn\/normlex\/en\/f?p=NORMLEXPUB:12100:0::NO::P12100_ILO_CODE:C169\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ILO Convention 169<\/a> (ratified by Brazil in 2002) and the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/constituicao\/constituicao.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Federal Constitution<\/a>. The failure to conduct adequate prior consultation is increasingly invoked in judicial challenges to ANM titles and environmental licences, and has resulted in injunctions suspending mining operations.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Environmental Compliance<\/h4>\n <p>Environmental licences issued by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IBAMA<\/a> or state agencies impose a programme of conditions (condicionantes) that must be satisfied throughout operations. These typically include monitoring programmes for water quality, flora, fauna and soil, revegetation and progressive rehabilitation of worked-out areas, and annual compliance reports. Conditions evolve and are reassessed at each licence renewal, which typically occurs every 4 to 6 years.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"obligation-item\">\n <h4>Deforestation & Land Use<\/h4>\n <p>Any vegetation clearing required for mining operations within areas of the Atlantic Forest or Amazon biome must comply with the Native Vegetation Protection Law (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/_ato2011-2014\/2012\/lei\/l12651.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lei 12,651\/2012<\/a>, the Forest Code). Deforestation authorisations are issued separately by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IBAMA<\/a> or state agencies. Unlicensed clearing is a strict-liability environmental offence under <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l9605.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 9,605\/1998<\/a> and may attract criminal liability for company officers in addition to administrative sanctions.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"obligation-note\">\n <strong>Compliance cost context:<\/strong> The total regulatory compliance cost for a producing mining operation in Brazil, covering CFEM payments, ANM reporting, dam safety obligations, environmental licence conditions, workforce safety programmes and community relations, is a significant component of operating expenditure. Foreign companies building financial models for Brazilian mining investments frequently underestimate this cost. Legal and regulatory counsel should be engaged before any financial model is finalised.\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"environmental-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Environmental Licensing<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\">The parallel process that determines whether a mine can operate<\/h2>\n <div class=\"env-grid\">\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Preliminary Licence (<em>Licenca Previa<\/em>, LP)<\/h3>\n <p>The first of three environmental licences required for a mining project of significant environmental impact. The LP attests to the environmental viability of the project and approves its basic concept and location. Obtaining it requires preparation and public consultation of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA\/RIMA). Timelines are highly variable but rarely less than 2 to 3 years for large projects, and commonly longer.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Installation Licence (<em>Licenca de Instalacao<\/em>, LI)<\/h3>\n <p>Issued once the LP has been obtained and the detailed project design is approved. The LI authorises construction of the mine infrastructure, processing plant and tailings facilities. It is conditional on fulfilment of conditions imposed at the LP stage. It is during the LI phase that the company implements the environmental programmes and monitoring systems specified in the EIA conditions.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Operating Licence (<em>Licenca de Operacao<\/em>, LO)<\/h3>\n <p>Authorises the commencement of mining operations. It is only issued after the licensing authority verifies that the installation conditions have been met and the required environmental control systems are operational. The LO must be renewed periodically (typically every 4 to 6 years for mining) and conditions are reassessed at each renewal. A mine cannot lawfully operate without a valid LO.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Federal vs State Licensing<\/h3>\n <p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/ibama\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IBAMA<\/a> is the competent authority for projects with significant national or multi-state environmental impacts, including mines in federal protected areas and projects in certain biomes. State environmental agencies handle the majority of mining projects. Which authority applies depends on the location and nature of the project and must be determined early. Choosing the wrong authority can invalidate licences already obtained and require restarting the process.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Indigenous & Traditional Lands<\/h3>\n <p>Mining activity in or directly affecting indigenous lands is prohibited without specific Congressional authorisation under the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/constituicao\/constituicao.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Federal Constitution<\/a>. Proximity to indigenous territories triggers mandatory consultation obligations and, in practice, significantly complicates the environmental licensing process for nearby projects. The legal boundaries of indigenous territories must be confirmed through FUNAI before any application is filed.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"env-card\">\n <h3>Environmental Liability<\/h3>\n <p>Brazil's Environmental Crimes Law (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l9605.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 9,605\/1998<\/a>) imposes criminal liability on company officers for environmental offences committed on their watch, even without direct personal participation. Administrative penalties include fines, interdiction of activities and embargoes on the affected area. Civil liability for environmental damage is strict and not limited by the amount of any administrative fine paid. The post-Brumadinho legislative reforms significantly increased penalties and reduced procedural barriers to enforcement.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"foreign-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"foreign-inner\">\n <div class=\"foreign-content\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Foreign Investment Constraints<\/div>\n <h2>Restrictions and structuring considerations foreign investors most often underestimate<\/h2>\n <p>The Brazilian Constitution prohibits foreign companies from holding mining titles directly. All exploration authorisations and mining concessions must be held by a legal entity incorporated in Brazil (typically a <em>sociedade limitada<\/em> or <em>sociedade an\u00f4nima<\/em>). Establishing that entity, registering it with the ANM and ensuring it meets Brazilian corporate governance requirements are prerequisites to any title application.<\/p>\n <p>Beyond the corporate structure requirement, foreign investors face a range of additional regulatory considerations that arise at different stages of the project lifecycle. These are among the most commonly misunderstood by foreign companies entering the Brazilian mining sector for the first time.<\/p>\n <p>The following issues warrant specific legal advice before any investment decision is made or any commercial arrangement is entered into.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <ul class=\"risk-list\">\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Foreign ownership of rural land (often required for mining access) is subject to area limits and requires <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.br\/incra\/pt-br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">INCRA<\/a> notification and compliance with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l5709.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 5,709\/1971<\/a><\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Repatriation of capital and dividends is generally permitted but must be registered with the Central Bank of Brazil (BCB) in the RDE-IED system before funds are remitted<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Intercompany loans from foreign parent companies attract the IOF financial operations tax and must comply with transfer pricing and thin capitalisation rules enforced by the Federal Revenue (Receita Federal)<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>ANM title transfers triggered by changes of control at the parent level require prior ANM consent; proceeding without consent may invalidate the transfer and expose the acquirer to fines<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Export of mineral commodities may be subject to export tax (ICMS exemptions vary by state) and the CFEM is calculated on export revenue, requiring accurate and auditable export invoicing<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <li>\n <svg class=\"risk-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"8\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"12\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"16\" x2=\"12.01\" y2=\"16\"\/><\/svg>\n <span>Anti-corruption compliance: Brazil's Clean Company Act (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/_ato2011-2014\/2013\/lei\/l12846.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 12,846\/2013<\/a>) imposes strict liability on companies for acts of corruption by employees or agents, including in interactions with licensing authorities and regulatory agencies<\/span>\n <\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"disputes-section\">\n <div class=\"section-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Disputes & Enforcement<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\">What foreign companies need to know about mining disputes in Brazil<\/h2>\n <div class=\"disputes-grid\">\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 22s8-4 8-10V5l-8-3-8 3v7c0 6 8 10 8 10z\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Federal court jurisdiction<\/h3>\n <p>Disputes involving ANM decisions, federal environmental licences and constitutional mining rights fall within the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts (<em>Justi\u00e7a Federal<\/em>). Challenges to ANM administrative decisions must first exhaust the ANM's internal appeals process before judicial review. The Federal Courts have specialist environmental chambers in several states that handle mining-related cases with increasing speed and consistency.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"1\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"23\"\/><path d=\"M17 5H9.5a3.5 3.5 0 0 0 0 7h5a3.5 3.5 0 0 1 0 7H6\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Environmental civil liability<\/h3>\n <p>Civil liability for environmental damage under Brazilian law is strict, joint and several, and not subject to any cap. Claims can be brought by the federal or state government (<em>Minist\u00e9rio P\u00fablico<\/em>), NGOs or affected communities. The Mariana and Brumadinho disasters produced some of the largest environmental reparation settlements in Brazilian history and set precedents for how courts value long-term environmental and social harm in mining contexts.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M17 21v-2a4 4 0 0 0-4-4H5a4 4 0 0 0-4 4v2\"\/><circle cx=\"9\" cy=\"7\" r=\"4\"\/><path d=\"M23 21v-2a4 4 0 0 0-3-3.87\"\/><path d=\"M16 3.13a4 4 0 0 1 0 7.75\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>ANM administrative sanctions<\/h3>\n <p>The ANM has broad powers to impose administrative sanctions for non-compliance, including fines, suspension of operations, interdiction of specific facilities and, in serious cases, cancellation of the mining title. ANM fines have increased significantly since 2017 and can be applied per violation and per day of ongoing non-compliance. Sanctions are published in the Official Gazette and become part of the public record of the title.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><rect x=\"2\" y=\"3\" width=\"20\" height=\"14\" rx=\"2\"\/><line x1=\"8\" y1=\"21\" x2=\"16\" y2=\"21\"\/><line x1=\"12\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"12\" y2=\"21\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Arbitration for commercial disputes<\/h3>\n <p>Mining joint ventures, shareholder agreements and offtake contracts between private parties routinely include arbitration clauses. The Brazilian Arbitration Act (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l9307.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 9,307\/1996<\/a>) is well-developed and widely used. The most common seats for Brazil-related mining arbitrations are S\u00e3o Paulo (CAM-CCBC, CAMARB), ICC Paris and London. Disputes with the ANM or environmental agencies, however, cannot be resolved by arbitration and must go through the administrative and federal court system.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><path d=\"M12 6v6l4 2\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Criminal liability for officers<\/h3>\n <p>The Environmental Crimes Law (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.planalto.gov.br\/ccivil_03\/leis\/l9605.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law 9,605\/1998<\/a>) and the Clean Company Act create personal criminal exposure for company directors and officers for environmental offences and corruption committed in connection with mining operations. Brazilian criminal law permits preventive detention of suspects during investigations. Foreign executives of Brazilian mining subsidiaries should be aware that travel to Brazil during an active investigation carries risk, and Brazilian courts have issued international arrest warrants in mining-related cases.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"disp-card\">\n <svg class=\"disp-icon\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M14 2H6a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v16a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h12a2 2 0 0 0 2-2V8z\"\/><polyline points=\"14 2 14 8 20 8\"\/><\/svg>\n <h3>Due diligence on acquisition<\/h3>\n <p>Mining M&A transactions require comprehensive legal due diligence covering ANM title status and encumbrances, environmental licence conditions and compliance history, dam safety classification and outstanding ANM requirements, surface rights and land access agreements, community consultation history, CFEM payment records and any outstanding debts to the ANM or environmental agencies. Buyers who proceed without thorough due diligence regularly inherit liabilities that were not disclosed or not apparent from public records.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"team-section\">\n <div class=\"team-inner\">\n <div class=\"team-img-wrap\">\n <a href=\"https:\/\/www.deqlaw.com.br\/en\/profissionais\/fabiano-deffenti\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" style=\"display:block;\">\n <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.deqlaw.com.br\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fabiano-300x350-1.png\" alt=\"Fabiano Deffenti, Senior Partner\" style=\"width:100%;display:block;\" \/>\n <\/a>\n <div style=\"padding:16px 4px 0;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:14px;\">\n <div>\n <strong style=\"display:block;font-size:17px;font-weight:600;color:var(--navy);margin-bottom:2px;\">Fabiano Deffenti<\/strong>\n <span style=\"font-size:14px;color:var(--gold);\">Senior Partner<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"team-content\">\n <div class=\"section-label\">Our Team<\/div>\n <h2 class=\"section-title\" style=\"font-size:34px;\">Mining and natural resources experience for international businesses<\/h2>\n <p>Fabiano Deffenti is the senior partner of D&Q Lawyers and one of the few lawyers in the world admitted to practise in Brazil (as an <em>advogado<\/em>), Australia (as a solicitor), New Zealand (as a barrister and solicitor) and New York (as an attorney-at-law). He has extensive experience advising foreign companies on entering and operating in Brazil, including on regulatory, corporate and transactional matters across extractive industries and natural resources.<\/p>\n <p>Fabiano is the editor of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawsofbrazil.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LawsofBrazil.com<\/a> and co-editor of <em>Introduction to Brazilian Law<\/em> (Wolters Kluwer, 1st ed. 2011; 2nd ed. 2016). He holds a Bachelor of Laws (with Honours) and a Bachelor of Business (International) (with Distinction) from the Queensland University of Technology.<\/p>\n <p>D&Q Lawyers advises on the full lifecycle of mining projects in Brazil, from initial title due diligence and ANM applications through to environmental licensing, joint venture structuring, M&A transactions and regulatory compliance.<\/p>\n <a href=\"https:\/\/www.deqlaw.com.br\/en\/profissionais\/\" class=\"btn-primary\" style=\"text-decoration:none;\">Meet the Full Team<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"cta-section\" id=\"contact\">\n <div class=\"cta-inner\">\n <div class=\"section-label\" style=\"justify-content:center;\">Get Advice<\/div>\n <h2>Investing in Brazilian mining?<\/h2>\n <p>We can advise on mining title due diligence and acquisition, ANM applications and compliance, environmental licensing, joint venture structuring and dispute resolution. Initial enquiries are always welcome.<\/p>\n <div style=\"margin-top:20px;padding:36px 44px;background:var(--warm-white);border:1px solid var(--border);display:inline-block;min-width:320px;\">\n <div style=\"font-size:12px;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:2px;color:var(--text-light);margin-bottom:12px;\">Send us an email<\/div>\n <a href=\"mailto:info@deqlaw.com.br\" style=\"font-size:24px;font-weight:300;color:var(--navy);text-decoration:none;display:block;margin-bottom:16px;\">info@deqlaw.com.br<\/a>\n <a href=\"mailto:info@deqlaw.com.br\" class=\"btn-primary\" style=\"text-decoration:none;\">Send Email Now<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <p style=\"margin-top:20px;font-size:13px;color:var(--text-light);\">This page is a summary only and does not constitute legal advice. Specific advice should be sought before taking any action in relation to Brazilian mining regulation.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/body>\n<\/html><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":4886,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5866","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n<title>Brazilian Mining Law | A Guide for Foreign Companies - D&Q Lawyers<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Brazilian mining law guide for foreigners. 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