Sigma Lithium Confirms Operations Unaffected by Preliminary Judicial Ruling

Sigma Lithium confirms its mining and industrial operations remain unaffected by a preliminary judicial ruling issued without due process. The company announced that despite a reported ruling by the courts in Teofilo Otoni, over 300 kilometers away from its Vale do Jequitinhonha operations, its activities continue uninterrupted. The ruling reportedly suspends the company’s environmental licenses and supports 19,000 job positions and 80,000 family members.

Sigma Lithium, the largest producer of industrial-mineral lithium oxide concentrate in the Americas, maintains its focus on advancing its expansion plans. The company is committed to delivering 240,000 tonnes of lithium oxide concentrate within the next 12 months and aims to produce 330,000 tonnes in the fiscal year 27. These targets are based on a recent agreement with the Minas Gerais State Authorities, known as the TAC Agreement, which was not cited as being affected by the judicial ruling.

The company argues that the preliminary ruling is inconsistent with Brazil's strong rule of law, emphasizing that due process was not followed. Sigma Lithium has taken appropriate measures during a three-day national holiday and will commence its legal defense once the courts resume regular operations on September 8. The ruling includes the potential for a daily fine, payable only if the final ruling is unfavorable. However, the company notes that this fine would require full due legal process, including rights of appeal in federal courts.

The company's environmental and social sustainability practices have been recognized internationally. Since 2012, Sigma Lithium has operated in Vale do Jequitinhonha, maintaining a 14-year track record of regulatory compliance and respectful engagement with local communities. The company has implemented several eco-friendly practices, including 100% dry stacking of tailings, zero use of toxic chemicals, and 100% reuse of water. The Cleantech Industrial Plant also operates on 100% renewable electricity.

Sigma Lithium's success in Vale do Jequitinhonha has contributed significantly to Brazil's position as a key player in the global lithium supply chain. The company is currently the fifth largest industrial-mineral complex for lithium oxide concentrate in the world and is expanding its capacity to meet growing global demand for lithium-based batteries.