The company announced record production of 3.2 million tons of iron ore pellets and fines since the resumption of operations. This surpassed production of 2.9 million tons in the last quarter of 2024.
Samarco Chief Financial Officer Gustavo Selayzim stated that the increase in production was possible thanks to reaching 60% of the installed capacity with the assets commissioned at the end of last year, "The first quarter of 2025 witnessed the highest production figures since the resumption of our operations. This success proved that our strategy of bringing forward the start of operations on the project by four months was right."
Selayzim also emphasized that the company is resolutely pursuing its people-oriented strategies based on safety, sustainability and operational excellence.
Full capacity target by 2028
The statement also shared details on the “Ano 3” project, which aims to reach 100% of the company's installed production capacity by 2028. This includes the restart of Beneficiation Plant 1 at the Germano Complex, the installation of Filtration System 3 and the restart of Pelletizing Plants 1 and 2 at Ubu. Investment in new waste disposal infrastructure is also on the agenda, in continuation of the commitment to no tailings dams.
The total cost of the project, which is still under evaluation, could reach approximately BRL 13 billion. Engineering studies are expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2025 and the investment decision is expected to be approved by the Company's Board of Directors and Executive Committee by the end of the year.
Dam closure process brought forward
The statement also reported developments regarding the company's environmental and social responsibility projects. It was reported that 88% progress has been made in the decommissioning process of the Germano dam and this process is targeted to be completed in 2026, before the 2029 deadline set with the competent authorities.
The document also mentioned Samarco's obligations regarding the repair processes in the Rio Doce Basin, stating that a total of USD 265 million was invested in the first quarter of 2025. Approximately USD 13 million of this amount was covered by Samarco, while the rest was financed by Vale and BHP, the company's shareholders. It was also shared with the public that the payments to be made by the company until 2031 will be limited to USD 1 billion.
It was stated that these developments demonstrate the determination of Samarco and its shareholders to fulfill their 2023 commitments under the Judicial Recovery process.
Comments
No comment yet.