Vale had also purchased access to the project data, but did not submit an offer, sources said.

Brazil is in the midst of overhauling its natural gas sector.

The drumbeat of voices forecasting India could rely more on global markets for iron ore next year is getting louder.

In securities filings, Vale projected costs from halted operations related to its dam that burst to fall from $3-$4 per tonne of iron ore in the third quarter to $2.5-$3.5 per tonne in the fourth quarter.

The miner also said six deactivated high dams still have negative structural stability certificates.

Winning bidders of mines whose leases expire by March 2020 would be able to start operations without delay if the mine has valid environmental and forest approvals.

Authorities suspect the company’s billionaire chief Kostyantin Zhevago has been engaged in money laundering and the embezzling of funds from a bank he formerly owned.