Brazil acts to keep mines open amid coronavirus crisis

The Brazilian government has declared mining operations as "essential" to the country, a measure to keep the mining industry operating amid the coronavirus crisis. 

Activities considered essential by the federal government cannot be stopped even if local governments impose restrictions on business activity and the circulation of people.

The decree signed by mining and energy minister Bento Albuquerque includes a wide range of activities, from mining-related research to the transportation and sale of mining products. 

The government's decision is very important for mining firms as they were worried that workers and supplies would not be able to reach mining sites. 

So far most mines in Brazil are operating as normal, but some local governments are imposing restrictions on the circulation of people and vehicles to contain the spread of coronavirus.