Vale Boosts Nickel Output with Second Onça Puma Furnace as Global Production Grows 6.1%
VALE•Vale’s Onça Puma mine commissioned a second furnace in 2025, boosting capacity and improving operating efficiency to support Brazil’s nickel output. Global nickel production grew 6.1% last year driven by Indonesia’s expansion, with gains in Brazil and Canada partly offset by declines in Australia and the Philippines.
1. Onça Puma Mine Expansion
In 2025, Vale’s Onça Puma mine brought a second furnace online, raising processing capacity and reducing unit costs through improved throughput and operational efficiency.
2. Global Nickel Production Trends
Worldwide nickel output increased by 6.1% in 2025 led by Indonesia’s ramp-up at major operations such as Weda Bay, Pomalaa and Gag Island, while Canada’s Voisey’s Bay mine also contributed to growth and Australia and the Philippines experienced significant declines.
3. Implications for Vale
The capacity boost at Onça Puma strengthens Brazil’s contribution to global nickel supply, positioning Vale to capture a larger revenue share as competition intensifies in a higher-supply market.
4. Market Outlook
Nickel production is forecast to rise another 9.4% in 2026, driven again by Indonesia, challenging Vale to leverage its recent operational gains and refine pricing strategies amid expanding global inventories.
