Brazilian copper exports to China reached a historic high in the first quarter of 2025. According to official figures released on April 16, the Asian country imported US$ 331 million in Brazilian copper between January and March, a jump of 180% compared to the same period in 2024. China accounted for 35% of total exports, consolidating its position as the product's main destination.

The growth in copper sales comes amid high demand for inputs linked to the renewable energy industry. Other materials associated with the sector also performed strongly in the quarter: manganese exports rose 310%, ferronickel exports rose 253%, and there was a 56% increase in sales of refined copper and copper alloys.

Brazil also significantly increased exports of rare earth metal compounds, such as yttrium and scandium. 419 tons were shipped in the first quarter, seven times more than the total recorded for the whole of 2024.

(Source: Brasil247, on April 16)