Vale’s nickel production reached 177,200 tons in 2025, up by 10.8% from the previous year. This performance surpassed the company’s original guidance of 160,000 to 175,000 tons, representing the highest output since 2022.

A primary driver was the Onça Puma mine in Brazil. Following the activation of a second furnace that reached full capacity in November, the site achieved a record quarterly output of 10,000 tons in the fourth quarter, more than double its production from the same period in 2024. This growth successfully balanced lower yields from Canada's Sudbury and Thompson mines.

For 2026, Vale expects further growth, with nickel production targets set between 175,000 and 200,000 tons.