Samarco reports 18% increase in production in the first quarter

Supported by strong safety performance, production consolidates a new level and reinforces operational stability.

Samarco released its first quarter 2026 (1Q26) results this Friday (May 8th) in a live broadcast with investors. From January to March, the company produced 3.8 million tons of iron ore pellets and fines, an 18% increase compared to the same period in 2025, confirming the consolidation of a new structural level of production, in line with its operational recovery plan.

Sales totaled 3.2 million tons, a 12% increase compared to the first quarter of last year, supported by resilient demand and aligned with production growth. Compared to the previous quarter, the performance reflects a healthy normalization of the pace of shipments, following significant anticipations at the end of 2025. The average realized price of pellets was USD 130.3 per ton, a 2% increase compared to Q4 2025, indicating an improvement in price dynamics, albeit still pressured in the year-on-year comparison.

According to Samarco's CEO, Rodrigo Vilela, the results reinforce the resilience and consistency of the company's operational recovery. “The first quarter results show the consolidation of a new production level, with greater stability and predictability. We continue to move forward with discipline and confidence in executing our strategy, strengthening operational efficiency and our ability to serve the market”.

The Chief Financial Officer, Strategy and Supply Chain Director, Gustavo Selayzim, highlights the quality of the period's performance. “In a challenging global environment, we had a consistent quarter, with significant growth compared to the previous year and a healthy normalization after an exceptionally strong fourth quarter. The sequential evolution of prices, even with high short-term volatility, reinforces the balance between production, sales, and commercial conditions”.

Our performance this quarter reinforces Samarco's operational robustness, which continues to operate at approximately 60% of its installed production capacity, with greater predictability and stability. By 2025, the company had already achieved consistent results, producing 15.1 million tons and selling 15.9 million tons, in addition to net revenue of USD 1.9 billion and adjusted EBITDA of USD 1.1 billion, demonstrating the continued progress of its recovery.

Full compliance with dam safety requirements was maintained throughout the period, including adherence to the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management.

Samarco prioritizes compliance with the New Rio Doce Agreement and a gradual, safe, and sustainable resumption of operations. To reach 100% of its total production capacity, the company plans investments of BRL 13.8 billion in what is called Phase 3, which includes the reactivation of assets in the Germano Complex (MG) and in Ubu (ES). The expectation is to reach 100% of installed production capacity starting in 2028. This process is based on safe tailings disposal solutions, without the use of dams, reinforcing the company's commitment to sustainable and innovative practices.