#Brazil #Vale Base Metals #Nickel Production #Pará #Onça Puma

Vale Base Metals Commences Operation of Furnace 2 in Onça Puma

On October 1, 2025, Vale Base Metals (VBM) proudly announced the operational start of its second nickel processing furnace, aptly named Furnace 2, at the Onça Puma mining complex located in southeastern Pará, Brazil. This key development marks a significant increase in VBM's production capabilities, elevating its potential for long-term growth and profitability.

The introduction of Furnace 2 not only enhances the facility’s operational capacity by adding an impressive 15 kilotonnes of nickel production, but it also positions Onça Puma as Brazil's largest ferronickel operation. With this expansion, the nominal production capacity rises to a remarkable 40 ktpa.

The project has been executed within the planned timelines and astonishingly under budget by nearly 13%. It's noteworthy that throughout the three years of development, there have been no work-related accidents. In the words of VBM’s CEO, Shaun Usmar, "This investment and the success of Furnace 2 represent our commitment to both Pará and Brazil while ensuring our world-class operations remain competitive globally."

VBM expressed heartfelt gratitude to Kilma Cunha and the Onça Puma team, acknowledging their dedication and excellence throughout the project. The positive impacts extend beyond production; during the construction phase, Furnace 2 has generated approximately 2,500 jobs. Furthermore, with over 1,800 employees — comprised of both permanent staff and contractors — the Onça Puma mining complex stands as a vital source of employment and income, significantly contributing to the socio-economic development of the Pará region.

As VBM continues to pave the way toward achieving its ambitious target of producing between 160-175 kilotonnes of nickel by 2025, the initiation of Furnace 2 is set to play a pivotal role in the company's broader strategy. The company has also projected a potential production of between 210 and 250 kilotonnes by 2030, aided by the ramping up of underground mining operations in Voisey's Bay, Canada.

About Onça Puma

In operation since 2011, Onça Puma has established Brazil as a strategic exporter of nickel to the stainless steel industry. The facility is dedicated to supporting the socio-economic development of the communities where it operates through local employment, tax contributions, direct investments, and local purchasing initiatives.

About Vale Base Metals

Vale Base Metals is recognized as one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality nickel, in addition to being a key player in the copper and cobalt markets with a commitment to responsible sourcing. The company is home-based in London, UK, with a global operational center in Toronto, Canada, and has footprint operations in Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario, Manitoba, Indonesia, Brazil, and Japan. Vale Base Metals is majority-owned by Vale S.A. (90%) and is also partially owned by Manara Minerals Investment Company (10%).