Rio de Janeiro, July 23 (Xinhua) — By Lin Chunyin: On the evening of local time July 22, Brazil-based mining giant Vale released its Q2 2025 production and sales report, indicating stable performance across all business segments.
Vale’s Q2 2025 production and sales highlights. Screenshot from the report.
The report noted that in iron ore operations, incremental production from new assets and improving operational reliability will support the smoother execution of the 2025 production plan. For nickel and copper operations, sustained operational enhancements drove Q2 production to its highest levels since 2021 and 2019, respectively, further solidifying growth momentum. In June, the Bacaba project achieved a key milestone by securing preliminary licensing.
In Q2 2025, total iron ore production reached 83.6 million metric tons (Mt), up 3 Mt (4%) year-on-year, driven by strong performance at the Brucutu operation following the trial run of its fourth processing line and a new Q2 production record at the S11D mine. Pellet production totaled 7.9 Mt, down 1 Mt (12%) year-on-year, aligning with the revised 2025 production guidance. Iron ore sales totaled 77.3 Mt, down 2.4 Mt (3%) year-on-year, reflecting the company’s product mix optimization strategy prioritizing medium-grade products.
Copper production in Q2 2025 totaled 92,600 tons, up 14,000 tons (18%) year-on-year, benefiting from higher ore grades at Sossego, Salobo reaching full capacity, and the gradual ramp-up of the Voisey’s Bay Mine Expansion (VBME). This marked the highest Q2 output since 2019, continuing a three-year growth trend.
Nickel production in Q2 2025 totaled 40,300 tons, up 12,400 tons (44%) year-on-year, supported by stronger asset performance in Canada and Onça Puma, reduced planned maintenance, and further contributions from VBME’s ramp-up. The Long Harbour refinery achieved a record quarterly output of 11,000 tons. Overall, nickel production reached its highest Q2 level since 2021. (End)
