Brazil Potash has announced the formation of an advisory board to support the advancement of its Autazes potash project towards construction. The board will be chaired by Mayo Schmidt and includes Kátia Abreu, Luis Adams, Helio Diniz, Maria Claudia Guimaraes, Cidinho Santos, and William Steers. These individuals bring a wealth of experience in various sectors, particularly in Brazil’s agricultural, legal, financial, and mining industries.

Brazil Potash’s Executive Chairman Stan Bharti commented “Brazil Potash has assembled a very impressive advisory board with extensive depth of networks in the fertilizer sector, Brazil’s government and the investment community that will contribute meaningfully to transitioning our construction ready Autazes Project into the next major potash producer.  Each advisory board member is a skilled leader with a strong network that will provide good advice and insights to our international board of directors with majority having on-the-ground presence in the heartland of Brazil’s farming community, Mato Grosso.”

Mayo Schmidt, the advisory board chair, has an extensive background in leading major companies. He previously served as Chairman and CEO of Nutrien, the world’s largest potash producer, where he managed global acquisitions and initial public offerings. Schmidt also held top positions at Viterra and Hydro One and has a history of working with major agricultural companies like General Mills and ConAgra.

Kátia Abreu, a former Brazilian Minister of Agriculture and Senator, brings significant political and agricultural expertise. Abreu has served as head of Brazil’s National Agriculture and Livestock Confederation, representing over a million producers. She was also a vice-presidential candidate in Brazil’s 2018 elections.

Luis Adams, a former Attorney General of Brazil, offers legal expertise. Adams is currently a partner at Tauil Chequer Advogados, associated with Mayer Brown in São Paulo. His tenure as Attorney General under Presidents Lula and Dilma saw him lead major judiciary cases and environmental agreements.

Helio Diniz, one of Brazil Potash’s founders, has over 40 years of experience in mining. He played a crucial role in the development of Brazil’s Sao Bento gold mine and the discovery of the Araguaia Nickel Deposit. Diniz also has experience with Xstrata and Forbes & Manhattan Inc., founding several companies, including Aguia Metais, Belo Sun Mining, and Irati Petroleo e Energia.

Maria Claudia Guimaraes brings financial market experience, having held senior positions at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, ING Bank, and ABN AMRO. She has served as an independent director for companies like Petrobras and currently runs Baobá Investimentos, a strategic financial advisory firm.

Cidinho Santos, a former Senator for Mato Grosso, focuses on agriculture. He co-owns Unibras Industria e Comercio de Biodiesel Ltda. and Uniao Avicola Agroindustrial Ltda., which are involved in biodiesel production and poultry processing.

William Steers has over three decades of experience in capital markets and project development in Brazil. He has worked with Docas Investimentos S.A. and served as an independent director for Petro Rio S.A., Brazil’s largest private oil and gas company.

Brazil Potash’s domestic production is expected to significantly impact global food security. Brazil, a leading exporter of agricultural goods, currently imports over 95% of its potash needs despite having one of the largest potash basins in its backyard. The company aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by cutting maritime transportation and producing potash locally.

Brazil Potash’s project is nearing construction readiness, with a completed feasibility study, EISA, and most necessary permits obtained. The company expects to deliver potash at competitive costs, contributing to Brazil’s agricultural sector and reducing environmental impact.

The above references an opinion and is for information purposes only. It is not intended to be investment advice. Seek a licensed professional for investment advice. The author is not an insider or shareholder of any of the companies mentioned above.