Vale is the world’s biggest producer of iron ore and pellets. Our largest operation is located in Carajás, Brazil, one of the richest iron ore provinces in the world, with the highest levels of iron content yet found: 67% on average.
The superior quality of our ore is one of our main competitive advantages. Vale’s leadership in this market is also the result of investment in technology, research and efficient logistics infrastructure integrating mines, railroads and ports.
Sales of iron ore and pellets – small lumps of iron particles – account for more than half of the company’s revenue. Our main customers are steelmakers in Asia, especially China, which on average consume over half of our output.
Iron ore
Iron ore is a mixture of two minerals that are widespread in nature – hematite and quartz – together forming a kind of rock called itabirite. After it has been removed from the ground and processed, iron ore is sold to steel companies, which combine it with other substances to make steel.
Iron and steel are used in countless objects present in our everyday lives, from screws, metal sheets and wires to large buildings, cars and domestic appliances.