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Vale Base Metals Exploration Results and Future Outlook

Vale Base Metals (VBM) has unveiled its exploration results for 2025 and ambitious outlook for 2026, indicating a promising trajectory in its mineral reserves, primarily copper. The company has achieved a notable 6% increase in its copper mineral reserves, bringing the total to 53 million tonnes. This increase positions VBM on a robust growth path, as it targets a total rise of more than 20% in its mineral reserves and resources in Canada and Brazil by the end of 2027.

Highlights of 2025 Exploration

The exploration results reveal significant growth in both copper and nickel reserves. Compared to 2024, VBM's copper reserves expanded by 6%, and nickel reserves saw an impressive increase of 13%, now totaling 14 million tonnes. Additionally, VBM's polymetallic assets, including cobalt, platinum, palladium, and gold, have also benefited from these exploration efforts, reinforcing the company’s potential for organic growth.

“Our strategy is to amplify our exploration activities, which have firmly established a strong pipeline of mineral resources. Our teams have improved geological models across several districts while advancing drilling programs to replace reserves and increase mineral resources,” stated Chris McCleave, Chief Technical Officer of VBM.

Focus on Exploration in 2026

Looking ahead, VBM intends to intensify its drilling activities in key mining districts through 2026. The company is particularly focused on the Carajás copper district in Brazil, known for its high potential and robust infrastructure. VBM plans to double its drilling intensity in this district, with over 120,000 meters of drilling planned for the year compared to 2025's levels. This strategic decision is aimed at deepening its understanding of the existing deposits and expanding operational efficiencies.

“We have already doubled our drilling intensity in Carajás, and we aim to remain aggressive in our exploration to secure more resources in vital areas,” added McCleave.

Regional Developments and Projects

The company has reported advances at several key sites:

• - South Hub (Brazil): VBM's drilling in the Sossego, Bacaba, and Cristalino deposit areas has confirmed the continuity of the high-grade copper and gold mineralization at Sequeirinho. Notable drill results included intersections such as 264m at 1.25% Cu and extensions of high-grade zones, supporting the project's underground development concepts.

• - North Hub: Significant drilling accomplishments occurred in the Paulo Afonso and Furnas areas, adding substantial mineral resources. VBM anticipates further drilling to support the potential of underground mines.

• - Global Initiatives: VBM is also directing exploration efforts offshore, in areas such as Chile and Peru, where it holds large mining concessions near existing well-known deposits. This will help sustain a dynamic rotation of projects and enhance exploration productivity across international boundaries.

In addition to the copper focus, VBM's operations in Sudbury, Canada, have similarly seen increases in nickel resources, reinforcing the company’s broader strategy to maintain and enhance its dual metals profile.

Commitment to Growth and Sustainability

Vale Base Metals remains committed to its exploration and sustainable mining practices, supporting longer lifespans for its mining operations. As the company continues to assess its resources and reserves, it aims to integrate more environmentally responsible practices in its operations, thereby reinforcing its position in the global mining sector.

The latest exploration reports from VBM exemplify its proactive stance in expanding mineral resources while preparing for future mining ventures. With the planned strategic drilling and assessment initiatives set to be implemented in 2026 and beyond, VBM looks poised for impressive growth and expansion.

Conclusion

With a significant increase in reserves and a clear roadmap for exploration, Vale Base Metals is in a strong position to capitalize on new opportunities in the mining sector, enhancing its offerings in copper, nickel, and other critical metals while adhering to safety and sustainability standards. The coming years promise to be transformative for VBM as it drives towards meeting its ambitious growth targets.