South Star Launches Graphite Production at Santa Cruz Project in Brazil

South Star, a prominent Canadian battery-metals company, has officially commenced graphite production at its Santa Cruz project, located in Bahia, Brazil. The company has successfully produced its first metric tonne of graphite concentrate. This marks a major milestone in its strategy to supply critical materials for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy sectors.

Strategic Expansion to Meet Growing Demand

South Star has set an initial production target of 12,000 metric tons per year (t/yr) for the Santa Cruz project. Recognizing the increasing global demand for high-quality battery-grade graphite, the company plans to significantly expand production. In 2026, phase two will increase capacity to 25,000 t/yr, with an ambitious target of 50,000 t/yr by 2028, marking a substantial boost in graphite production in Brazil. CEO Richard Pearce emphasized that South Star is committed to fulfilling the market’s growing need for reliable, top-grade graphite.

Brazil’s Graphite Reserves and Strategic Advantage

Brazil boasts extensive graphite reserves, estimated at 74 million tons. This positions the country as a dominant player in the global graphite market. South Star’s Santa Cruz project benefits from this resource abundance, strengthening its competitive edge. This extensive reserve makes Brazil a critical hub for graphite production. Meanwhile, the company is also developing a graphite project in Alabama. This aligns with its broader strategy to create a diversified portfolio of assets that serve critical battery-metal markets.

Focus on Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

South Star remains dedicated to sustainability, incorporating environmentally friendly mining practices throughout its operations. By prioritizing efficiency and reducing environmental impact, the company aligns itself with global trends focused on green technologies. As demand for high-quality, responsibly sourced graphite continues to rise, initiatives in Brazil’s graphite production contribute significantly to these efforts. South Star’s commitment to sustainability strengthens its position in the global market.

Positioned for Growth in a Thriving Market

The rapid expansion of the EV industry and increasing battery usage in renewable energy technologies are driving the rising demand for graphite. South Star’s proactive approach to scaling production and tapping into Brazil’s extensive graphite reserves positions the company for continued success in the competitive battery-metals market. With a clear strategy in place, South Star is set to become a key player in the global graphite supply chain, enhancing graphite production in Brazil.