Brazil Potash Subsidiary Potássio do Brasil, Signs Preliminary Agreement with Mura Indigenous People for Autazes Potash Project

Rhea-AI Summary

Brazil Potash (NYSE-American: GRO) announced the signing of a Preliminary Cooperation Agreement with the Mura Indigenous Council (CIM) of Autazes for its Autazes Potash Project. The agreement, signed through subsidiary Potássio do Brasil, follows the project's approval by Mura Indigenous Communities in September 2023.

The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration that includes implementing the 'Plano Bem Viver Mura' sustainable development program, investing in social and cultural development initiatives for indigenous villages, and committing to socioeconomic and environmental programs aligned with current licensing requirements.

The agreement was developed according to Mura People's requirements and follows extensive community engagement led by CIM, the official representative body of the Mura People of Autazes.

Positive

• Secured indigenous community approval and cooperation for the Autazes Potash Project
• Established formal framework for project development with key stakeholders

Negative

• None.

Insights

Mining Industry Analyst

The preliminary agreement with the Mura Indigenous People represents a critical de-risking milestone for Brazil Potash's Autazes Project. Indigenous community relations are often a major stumbling block for mining projects in Brazil, with several high-profile projects historically derailed by community opposition. The formalization of this framework, following the September 2023 approval, significantly reduces execution risk and strengthens the project's social license to operate.

The strategic importance of this development extends beyond community relations. Brazil currently imports approximately 98% of its potash needs, making domestic production a national priority. The Autazes project, once operational, could potentially supply up to 20% of Brazil's annual potash demand, representing a significant shift in the country's fertilizer supply chain dynamics.

The incorporation of the "Plano Bem Viver Mura" development program demonstrates a sophisticated approach to community engagement, moving beyond simple compensation to establish a sustainable partnership model. This approach typically results in more stable long-term operations and reduced operational disruption risks.

ESG Investment Specialist

This agreement exemplifies evolving best practices in Indigenous engagement within the natural resources sector. The structured approach, including both social investment and cultural preservation components, aligns with enhanced ESG expectations from institutional investors. The formal partnership framework provides measurable KPIs for social impact assessment, a important element for ESG-focused investors.

The timing is particularly relevant as global investors increasingly scrutinize companies' Indigenous relations practices. Recent regulatory changes in major markets have heightened reporting requirements around Indigenous engagement, making formalized agreements like this increasingly valuable from a compliance and risk management perspective.

While financial details aren't disclosed, similar agreements in the sector typically involve substantial long-term commitments. The structured nature of this agreement, including specific development programs and environmental considerations, suggests a comprehensive approach that could serve as a model for future projects in the region.

• Agreement Formalizes Implementation of "Plano Bem Viver Mura" Development Program Following September 2023 Project Approval by the Mura Indigenous Communities
• Establishes Preliminary Social and Economic Framework for a Partnership with Indigenous Communities

MANAUS, Brazil, Jan. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brazil Potash Corp. (“Brazil Potash” or the “Company”) (NYSE-American: GRO), a company developing and constructing the largest potash fertilizer project in Brazil, today announced the signing of a Preliminary Cooperation Agreement with the Mura Indigenous Council (CIM) of Autazes, marking a significant milestone in the development of the Company's Autazes Potash Project (the "Project").

The Agreement, signed by the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary Potássio do Brasil Ltda., establishes a preliminary framework for collaboration between the Project and the Mura Indigenous communities. Key elements include:

• Implementation of the "Plano Bem Viver Mura" - a sustainable development program
• Investment in social and cultural development initiatives for indigenous villages represented by CIM
• Commitment to socioeconomic and environmental programs aligned with current environmental licensing and legal requirements
  

"This Agreement formalizes our commitment to promoting sustainable development in partnership with the Mura people," said Adriano Espeschit, President of Potássio do Brasil. "Following their strong support of the Project in September 2023, we are pleased to formalize an initial framework that will create lasting positive impact for indigenous communities while advancing Brazil's domestic potash production capabilities.”

The Agreement was developed in accordance with the Mura People's requirements and follows extensive community engagement led by CIM, the officially recognized representative body of the Mura People of Autazes.

About Brazil Potash

Brazil Potash (NYSE-American: GRO) (www.brazilpotash.com) is developing Brazil’s largest potash project that will supply sustainable fertilizers to one of the world’s largest agricultural exporters. Brazil is critical for global food security as the country has amongst the highest amounts of fresh water, arable land, and an ideal climate for year-round crop growth but is vulnerable as it imports over 95% of its potash fertilizer despite having what is anticipated to be one of the world’s largest undeveloped potash basins in its own backyard. The potash produced will be transported primarily using low-cost river barges on an inland river system in partnership with Amaggi (www.amaggi.com.br), one of the largest farmers and logistical operators of agricultural products in Brazil. With initial planned annual potash production of 2.4 million tons per year, Brazil Potash will supply approximately 17% of the growing potash demand in Brazil with future plans to double output. 100% of Brazil Potash’s production will be sold domestically to reduce Brazil’s reliance on potash imports while concurrently mitigating approximately 1.4 million tons per year of GHG emissions.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements, which are statements that are not historical facts. Words such as “expects”, “anticipates” and “intends” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements, including statements relating to the the signing of a Preliminary Cooperation Agreement with the Mura Indigenous Council (CIM) of Autazes, are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s registration statement on Form F-1, as amended, for the IPO filed with the SEC and the supplemented PREP prospectus filed in each of the provinces and territories of Canada, other than Québec. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. The Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based, unless required by law.

Contact:

Brazil Potash Investor Relations
info@brazilpotash.com

FAQ

What is the significance of Brazil Potash's (GRO) agreement with Mura Indigenous Council?

The agreement establishes a preliminary framework for collaboration on the Autazes Potash Project, including sustainable development programs and social initiatives, following the project's approval by Mura Indigenous Communities in September 2023.

What are the key components of Brazil Potash's (GRO) agreement with the Mura people?

The agreement includes implementing the 'Plano Bem Viver Mura' sustainable development program, investment in social and cultural development initiatives, and commitment to socioeconomic and environmental programs.

When did the Mura Indigenous Communities approve Brazil Potash's (GRO) Autazes Project?

The Mura Indigenous Communities approved the Autazes Potash Project in September 2023, prior to the signing of this Preliminary Cooperation Agreement.

How will Brazil Potash (GRO) support indigenous communities through this agreement?

Brazil Potash will support indigenous communities through the 'Plano Bem Viver Mura' development program, social and cultural development initiatives, and various socioeconomic and environmental programs aligned with licensing requirements.