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Exploring METS diversification opportunities at Exposibram 2026

Austrade and Austmine supported Australian METS exporters at one of Latin America’s largest mining events.

The packed exhibition floor at Exposibram 2026 was the perfect place for Australian mining equipment, technology and services (METS) companies to deepen relationships, explore new opportunities and showcase Australian innovation at one of Latin America’s premier mining events.

Austmine, in collaboration with Austrade, led a delegation of 12 Australian METS companies to Brazil from 24–28 August. The visit and Team Australia’s expanded presence at Exposibram was supported by the Accessing New Markets Initiative. Austmine is a member of the Trade Diversification Network working with Austrade to support exporters to diversify to new markets.

‘The mission has positioned Australian METS companies to pursue new opportunities in one of the world’s most important mining markets,’ says Gabrielle Hall, Austrade Senior Trade Commissioner. ‘This further strengthens Australia’s reputation as a trusted partner in mining innovation and operational excellence.’

The Brazilian opportunity is relationship-driven 

The Australia Lounge served as a focal point throughout the exhibition, creating a welcoming space where Australian exporters could showcase their technologies, capabilities and expertise while hearing directly from mining firms about the challenges they navigate every day.

Business conversations flowed from exhibition halls to networking events, reflecting a market where trust, personal connections and long-term partnerships are at the centre of commercial success.

One of the highlights was the Australia Night Reception, hosted by H.E. Sophie Davies, Australia’s Ambassador to Brazil. More than 200 guests from industry, government and international business attended the reception.

In addition to attending Exposibram, delegates met with representatives from BHP, Vale, Samarco, AngloGold Ashanti and Cedro Mineração and visited Vale’s iron ore Vargem Grande Complex. Austmine’s Meet the Miners™ sessions connected participants with procurement and operational leaders from Anglo American, Ero Copper and Lundin Mining.  

Australian exporters showcased their METS and spoke with potential customers at the Australia Lounge.

The time to engage is now

Brazil is entering a significant mining investment cycle, with almost US$77 billion in investment projected between 2026 and 2030.

The mission provided a closer look at how Brazil’s mining sector is changing. While iron ore remains a major part of the industry, Brazil is increasingly diversifying into base and precious metals, as well as developing its critical minerals sector. Brazil’s METS sector has evolved alongside this, with local companies offering increasingly sophisticated technologies and solutions.

For Australian METS companies, this changing landscape is opening up opportunities across technology and equipment, including automation and AI for remote operations, predictive maintenance and autonomous systems. There is also a strong focus on sustainability, with opportunities in areas such as mine electrification, renewable energy integration, tailings monitoring and water management. 

Find out why METS trade diversification matters and where to start in this thought leadership article featuring Austmine’s Director for International Business, Dr Robert Trzebski.

Australia’s expertise can help build future skills

Brazilian mining companies are increasingly looking to build the skills and capability needed to boost productivity. This demand presents a significant opportunity for Australian education organisations to partner with Brazilian mining firms and education institutions.

‘Our conversations with Brazilian universities and training partners opened opportunities to explore how Australian education and research expertise could support the sector’s workforce needs in both Brazil and Australia,’ says Stephanie Oliveira, Senior Business Development Manager, Austrade. 

‘These conversations centred around safety and sustainability. Our work across sectors is complementary and there’s room for growth for transnational education in this area.’

Learn more about exporting METS to Latin America.

Government partnerships support market diversification

The Accessing New Markets Initiative (ANMI) highlights the practical role government can play in helping Australian mining firms expand and diversify their exports in Latin America. 

Through ANMI, Austrade worked alongside Austmine to support Australian businesses participating in Exposibram, helping them make valuable connections and identify new commercial opportunities.

By facilitating introductions to key customers, industry leaders and decision-makers, and creating opportunities for Australian companies to showcase their capabilities, ANMI is helping businesses build relationships that can lead to export growth and long-term success.


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