Trump sees Brazil as opportunity to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals, researcher says – Valor International
U.S. President Donald Trump’s interest in Brazil is tied to the need to reduce dependence on China for critical minerals, according to Heather Conley, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.
“Every time China wants to do something against us, it touches critical minerals. So, globally, we need to seize opportunities. The Chinese don’t want us to diversify our supply—they will keep pressing that button. We are talking about a sector in which Brazil can stand out,” said Conley, who is taking part in the Summit Valor Brazil-USA 2026 on Wednesday (13).
“It is a challenge and an opportunity. We need to take advantage of it because there isn’t much time to develop this diversification and overcome this challenge. China will work to prevent that from happening.”
Conley also said Trump’s interest in the Americas as a whole represents a significant shift in diplomatic doctrine. “But it is full attention, which, on the other hand, brings a much more interventionist approach,” she said, citing not only the approach toward Venezuela and Cuba but also toward Canada and Greenland.
In this context, the researcher questions how long Brazil’s policy of not fully aligning with either the U.S. or China will continue, while reaping the benefits of this independent role. At the same time, she also notes that diversifying partners has become the dominant strategy among economies. Even those that are more closely aligned, such as Canada, are seeking this rebalancing, she says.
This article was translated from Valor Econômico using an artificial intelligence tool under the supervision of the Valor International editorial team to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to our editorial standards. Read our Editorial Principles.
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