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Vale
Annual Report 2017

VALE · NYSE Basic Materials
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FY2017 Annual Report · Vale
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As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 13, 2018

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 20-F

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended: December 31, 2017
Commission file number: 001-15030

VALE S.A.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Federative Republic of Brazil
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

Luciano Siani Pires, Chief Financial Officer
phone: +55 21 3485 5000
Praia de Botafogo 186 – offices 701 – 1901 – Botafogo
22250-145 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
(Address of principal executive offices)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class

Name of Each Exchange on
Which Registered

Common shares of Vale, no par value per share
American Depositary Shares (evidenced by American Depositary Receipts), each representing

New York Stock Exchange*
New York Stock Exchange

one common share of Vale

4.625% Guaranteed Notes due 2020, issued by Vale Overseas
5.875% Guaranteed Notes due 2021, issued by Vale Overseas
4.375% Guaranteed Notes due 2022, issued by Vale Overseas
6.250% Guaranteed Notes due 2026, issued by Vale Overseas
8.250% Guaranteed Notes due 2034, issued by Vale Overseas
6.875% Guaranteed Notes due 2036, issued by Vale Overseas
6.875% Guaranteed Notes due 2039, issued by Vale Overseas
5.625% Notes due 2042, issued by Vale S.A.

New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange

*

Shares  are  not  listed  for  trading,  but  only  in  connection  with  the  registration  of  American  Depositary  Shares  pursuant  to  the
requirements of the New York Stock Exchange.

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None
The number of outstanding shares of each class of stock of Vale as of December 31, 2017 was:
5,197,432,081 common shares, no par value per share
12 golden shares, no par value per share

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes (cid:1) No (cid:1)

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to
Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes (cid:1) No (cid:1)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports)
and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes (cid:1) No (cid:1)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive
Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding
12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes (cid:1) No (cid:1)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition
of ‘‘accelerated filer’’ and ‘‘large accelerated filer’’ in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Accelerated filer (cid:1)
Large accelerated filer (cid:1)
If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the
registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards
provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. (cid:1)
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP (cid:127)

International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (cid:1)

Non-accelerated filer (cid:1)

Emerging growth company (cid:1)

Other (cid:127)

If ‘‘Other’’ has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant
has elected to follow.

Item 17 (cid:1) Item 18 (cid:1)

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange
Act).

Yes (cid:1) No (cid:1)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Form 20-F cross-reference guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii

Management’s report on internal control

over financial reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .178
Corporate governance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179
Code of ethics and conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .183
Principal accountant fees and services . . . . . . . . . . . . .184
Information filed with securities regulators . . . . . . .185
Exhibits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187
Signatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .192

Overview

I.
Business overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Selected financial data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Forward-looking statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Risk factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Information on the company

II.
Lines of business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Ferrous minerals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
1.
Base metals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
2.
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
3.
Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
4.
5. Other investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Regulatory matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

III. Operating and financial review and

prospects

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Results of operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Liquidity and capital resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
Contractual obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
Off-balance sheet arrangements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
Critical accounting policies and estimates . . . . . . . . .112
Risk management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116

Share ownership and trading

IV.
Major shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
Related party transactions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .122
Distributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124
Trading markets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126
Share price history . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127
Depositary shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .128
Purchases of equity securities by the issuer

and affiliated purchasers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130

V. Management and employees
Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131
Management compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144
Employees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147

VI. Additional information
Legal proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149
Memorandum and articles of association . . . . . . . . . .159
Shareholder debentures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166
Exchange controls and other limitations

affecting security holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167
Taxation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .169
Evaluation of disclosure controls and

procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177

i

FORM 20-F CROSS-REFERENCE GUIDE

Item

Form 20-F caption

Location in this report

Page

Identity of directors, senior management

and advisers

Not applicable

Offer statistics and expected timetable

Not applicable

1

2

3

4

4A

5

Selected financial data
Not applicable

Not applicable
Risk factors

Key information
3A Selected financial data
3B Capitalization and indebtedness
3C Reasons for the offer and use of

proceeds
3D Risk factors

Information on the Company
4A History and development of the

company

4B Business overview

4C Organizational structure
4D Property, plant and equipment

Unresolved staff comments

None

Operating and financial review and

prospects

5A Operating results
5B Liquidity and capital resources
5C Research and development, patents and

licenses, etc.
5D Trend information
5E Off-balance sheet arrangements

Business overview, Capital expenditures
Business overview, Lines of business,

Reserves, Regulatory matters

Exhibit 8
Lines of business, Capital expenditures,

Regulatory matters

1, 76

1, 30, 67, 77
–

30, 76, 77

5F Tabular disclosure of contractual

obligations
5G Safe harbor

6

Directors, senior management and

employees

6A Directors and senior management
6B Compensation
6C Board practices
6D Employees
6E Share ownership

7

8

9

Major shareholders and related party

transactions

7A Major shareholders
7B Related party transactions
7C Interests of experts and counsel

Financial information
8A Consolidated statements and other

financial information

8B Significant changes

The offer and listing
9A Offer and listing details
9B Plan of distribution
9C Markets
9D Selling shareholders
9E Dilution
9F Expenses of the issue

Results of operations
Liquidity and capital resources

Capital expenditures
Results of operations
Off-balance sheet arrangements
Critical accounting policies and estimates

Contractual obligations
Forward-looking statements

Management
Management compensation
Management—Board of directors
Employees
Major shareholders,

Employees—Performance-based
compensation

Major shareholders
Related party transactions
Not applicable

Financial statements
Distributions
Legal proceedings
Not applicable

Share price history
Not applicable
Trading markets
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable

ii

–

–

12
–

–
15

–

90
106

76
90
111
112

110
14

–
131
144
145
147

118, 148

118
122
–

F-1
124
149
–

127
–
126
–
–
–

Form 20-F cross-reference guide

Item

10

Form 20-F caption

Additional information
10A Share capital

10B Memorandum and articles of

association

10C Material contracts

10D Exchange controls

10E Taxation
10F Dividends and paying agents
10G Statement by experts
10H Documents on display

10I Subsidiary information

Location in this report

Memorandum and articles

of association—Common shares and
golden shares

Memorandum and articles of association
Lines of business, Results of operations,

Related party transactions

Exchange controls and other limitations

affecting security holders

Taxation
Not applicable
Reserves
Information filed with securities

regulators
Not applicable

11

12

13

14

15

16A

16B

16C

16D

Quantitative and qualitative disclosures

about market risk

Risk management

Description of securities other than equity

securities

12A Debt securities
12B Warrants and rights
12C Other securities
12D American Depositary Shares

Defaults, dividend arrearages and

delinquencies

Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Depositary shares

Not applicable

Material modifications to the rights of

security holders and use of proceeds

Not applicable

Controls and procedures

Evaluation of disclosure controls and

procedures

Management’s report on internal control

over financial reporting

Audit Committee financial expert

Management—Fiscal Council

Code of ethics

Code of ethics and conduct

Principal accountant fees and services

Principal accountant fees and services

Exemptions from the listing standards for

audit committees

Management—Fiscal Council; Corporate

Page

159

159

30, 90, 122

167
169
–
67

185
–

116

–
–
–
128

–

–

177

178

140

183

184

governance

140, 179

16E

Purchase of equity securities by the issuer

and affiliated purchasers

Purchases of equity securities by the issuer

and affiliated purchasers

16F

Change in registrant’s certifying

accountant

Corporate governance

Mine safety disclosure

Financial statements

Financial statements

Exhibits

16G

16H

17

18

19

Not applicable

Corporate governance

Not applicable

Not applicable

Financial statements

Exhibits

130

–

179

–

–

F-1

186

iii

I. OVERVIEW

Vale S.A. is a stock corporation, or sociedade por a¸c ˜oes, that was organized on January 11, 1943 under the
laws of the Federative Republic of Brazil for an unlimited period of time. Its head office is located at Praia
de Botafogo 186 – offices 701-1901 – Botafogo, 22250-145 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil, and its telephone
number is 55-21-3485-5000.

In this report, references to ‘‘Vale’’ are to Vale S.A. References to ‘‘we,’’ ‘‘us’’ or the ‘‘Company’’ are to Vale
and, except where the context otherwise requires, its consolidated subsidiaries. References to our ‘‘ADSs’’
or ‘‘American Depositary Shares’’ are to our common American Depositary Shares (our ‘‘common ADSs’’),
each  of  which  represents  one  common  share  of  Vale.  American  Depositary  Shares  are  represented  by
American Depositary Receipts (‘‘ADRs’’) issued by the depositary.

Unless otherwise specified, we use metric units.

References  to  ‘‘real,’’  ‘‘reais’’  or  ‘‘R$’’  are  to  the  official  currency  of  Brazil,  the  real  (singular)  or  reais
(plural). References to ‘‘U.S. dollars’’ or ‘‘US$’’ are to United States dollars. References to ‘‘e’’ are to Euros.

BUSINESS OVERVIEW

SUMMARY

We are one of the largest metals and mining companies in the world, based on market capitalization. We
are the world’s largest producer of iron ore and iron ore pellets and the world’s largest producer of nickel.
We  also  produce  manganese  ore,  ferroalloys,  metallurgical  and  thermal  coal,  copper,  platinum  group
metals (PGMs), gold, silver and cobalt. We are presently engaged in greenfield mineral exploration in six
countries. We operate large logistics systems in Brazil and other regions of the world, including railroads,
maritime terminals and ports, which are integrated with our mining operations. In addition, we have a
distribution center to support the delivery of iron ore worldwide. Directly and through affiliates and joint
ventures, we also have investments in energy and steel businesses.

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12APR201813380467

Business Overview

The following table presents the breakdown of total net operating revenues attributable to each of our
lines of business with continuing operations.

2015

2016

2017

(US$ million)

(% of total)

(US$ million)

(% of total)

(US$ million)

(% of total)

Year ended December 31,

12,330
3,600
162

470

16,562

526

4,693
1,470

6,163

133

52.7%
15.4
0.7

2.0

70.8

2.3

20.1
6.3

26.4

0.5

15,784
3,827
302

438

20,351

839

4,472
1,667

6,139

159

57.4%
13.9
1.1

1.6

74.0

3.1

16.3
6.0

22.3

0.6

18,524
5,653
469

483

25,129

1,567

4,667
2,204

6,871

400

54.5%
16.7
1.4

1.4

74.0

4.6

13.7
6.5

20.2

1.2

Ferrous minerals:

Iron ore
Pellets
Ferroalloys and manganese
Other ferrous products and
services

Subtotal

Coal
Base metals:

Nickel and other products(1)
Copper(2)

Subtotal

Other(3)

Total net operating revenues

from continuing operations

23,384

100.0%

27,488

100.0%

33,967

100.0%

Includes nickel coproducts (copper) and byproducts (precious metals, cobalt and others).

(1)
(2) Does not include copper produced in our nickel operations.
(3)

Includes energy.

Ferrous minerals:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Iron  ore  and  iron  ore  pellets. We  operate  four  systems  in  Brazil  for  producing  and
distributing  iron  ore,  which  we  refer  to  as  the  Northern,  Southeastern,  Southern  and
Midwestern  Systems.  The  Northern  and  the  Southeastern  Systems  are  fully  integrated,
consisting of mines, railroads, maritime terminals and a port. The Southern System consists of
three mining complexes and two maritime terminals. We also have iron ore pellet operations
in  several  locations,  some  of  which  are  conducted  through  joint  ventures.  We  currently
operate nine pellet plants in Brazil and two in Oman. We also have a 50% stake in Samarco
and 25% stakes in two pellet companies in China.

Ferroalloys  and  manganese. We  conduct  our  manganese  mining  operations  through
Vale S.A. and subsidiaries in Brazil, and we produce several types of manganese ferroalloys
through a wholly owned subsidiary in Brazil.

Base metals:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Nickel. Our principal nickel mines and processing operations are conducted by our wholly
owned  subsidiary  Vale  Canada  Limited  (‘‘Vale  Canada’’),  which  has  operations  in  Canada,
Indonesia and New Caledonia. We also have nickel operations in On¸ca Puma, in the Brazilian
state of Par ´a. We also own and operate, or have interests in, nickel refining facilities in the
United Kingdom, Japan, China, South Korea and Taiwan.

In Brazil, we produce copper concentrates at Sossego and Salobo, in Caraj ´as, in the
Copper.
Brazilian  state  of  Par ´a.  In  Canada,  we  produce  copper  concentrates,  copper  matte  and

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12APR201813380467

Business Overview

copper cathodes in conjunction with our nickel mining operations at Sudbury and Voisey’s
Bay.

(cid:127)

Cobalt, PGMs and other precious metals. We produce cobalt as a byproduct of our nickel
mining and processing operations in Canada and refine it at our Port Colborne facilities, in
the Province of Ontario, Canada. We began producing refined cobalt in our Long Harbour
facilities in Newfoundland and Labrador in 2017. We also produce cobalt as a byproduct of
our  nickel  operations  in  New  Caledonia.  We  produce  PGMs  as  byproducts  of  our  nickel
mining  and  processing  operations  in  Canada.  The  PGMs  are  concentrated  at  our  Port
Colborne  facilities.  We  produce  gold  and  silver  as  byproducts  of  our  nickel  mining  and
processing operations in Canada, and gold as a byproduct of our copper mining at Sossego
and Salobo in Brazil.

Coal:

(cid:127) We conduct our coal operations primarily in Mozambique, through Vale Mo¸cambique S.A.
(‘‘Vale  Mo¸cambique’’),  where  we  are  ramping  up  our  metallurgical  and  thermal  coal
operations. We also have a minority interest in a Chinese coal producer.

Logistics infrastructure:

(cid:127) We are a leading operator of logistics services in Brazil and other regions of the world, with
railroads,  maritime  terminals,  distribution  centers  and  ports.  Two  of  our  four  iron  ore
systems include an integrated railroad network linked to port and terminal facilities. We also
have an interest in MRS Log´ıstica S.A. (‘‘MRS’’), which transports our iron ore products from
the Southern System mines to our maritime terminals, and VLI S.A. (‘‘VLI’’), which provides
integrated  logistics  solutions  to  general  cargo  through  railroads,  inland  and  maritime
terminals  in  Brazil.  We  are  ramping  up  the  logistics  infrastructure  to  support  our  coal
operations  in  Southeastern  Africa.  We  own  and  charter  dry  bulk  vessels  to  transport  the
products that we sell on a cost and freight (‘‘CFR’’) basis to customers.

BUSINESS STRATEGY

Our  mission  is  to  transform  natural  resources  into  prosperity  and  sustainable  development.  With  this
purpose, we are committed to:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Sustainability;

Improving our margins in the iron ore business;

Preserving optionality in our nickel business and increasing production of our copper assets;

Leveraging our mine and logistics in the coal business;

Decreasing our net debt level to US$10 billion; and

Enhancing corporate governance.

Below are the highlights of our major business strategies.

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Business Overview

Commitment to sustainability

We are committed to becoming a sustainability benchmark through a comprehensive approach based on
systematic planning and execution, prioritizing risk and impact management (seeking to achieve zero
harm to our employees and surrounding communities) and establishing a positive social, economic and
environmental  legacy  in  the  places  where  we  operate.  Below  is  a  list  of  measures  illustrating  our
commitment to sustainability:

(cid:127)

Since  2013,  environmental  and  social  actions  are  directly  incorporated  into  our  strategic
planning. In 2017, we joined the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), the
most  important  association  in  the  mining  industry,  reaffirming  our  commitment  to
sustainable development. Also in 2017, we joined the Task Force on Climate-related Financial
Disclosures  (TCFD).  The  purpose  of  the  TCFD  is  to  create  a  set  of  recommendations  to
improve the quality of voluntary disclosure of climate-related information.

(cid:127) We are committed to reducing water use in our activities by investing in technologies and
initiatives to control total water withdrawal, especially by promoting water reuse. In 2017,
we  withdrew  a  total  of  276.3  billion  liters  of  water,  and  used  179.5  billion  liters  in  our
operations (including discontinued operations), with the balance being allocated to third
parties. From the total volume of water used in 2017, 83% or 148.9 billion liters was reused.

(cid:127) We are committed to improving the health and safety of our workers. Our total recordable
injury frequency performance in 2017 was 2.0 per million hours worked, slightly higher than
the  frequency  of  1.89  per  million  hours  worked  recorded  in  the  previous  year,  although
demonstrating a 24% improvement over the last five years.

(cid:127) We follow standards for social action in accordance with international guidelines, including
principles  on  business  and  human  rights,  which  are  based  on  the  Guiding  Principles  on
Business and Human Rights of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

(cid:127)

In  July  2016,  we,  together  with  Samarco  and  BHPB,  established  the  Funda¸c ˜ao  Renova  to
develop and implement remediation and compensation programs over many years, in order
to support the recovery of the areas and communities affected by the failure of Samarco’s
dam.

Improving our margins in the iron ore business

We are committed to improving our margins in the iron ore business by achieving better price realization,
based  on  adjustments  to  our  product  portfolio  according  to  market  demand  and  supply  chain
optimization.  We  are  focusing  our  product  line  to  capture  industry  trends,  improving  quality  and
productivity, controlling costs, strengthening our logistics infrastructure of railroads, ports, shipping and
distribution  centers,  and  strengthening  relationships  with  customers.  Our  diversified  portfolio  of
high-quality  products,  strong  technical  marketing  strategy,  efficient  logistics  and  long-standing
relationships with major customers will help us achieve this goal.

In September 2017, Vale inaugurated the global Integrated Operations Center (IOC) at the Aguas Claras
mine. The IOC brings together various functions in the iron ore supply chain to support improvements in
the planning processes from mine to port, including optimization of ship distribution and response to
client demands. These improvements to our operations and sales planning are expected to lead to better
sales price realization and product quality management.

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Business Overview

We will continue to promote the Brazilian blend fines (BRBF), a product standard with silica (SiO2) content
limited  to  5%,  offering  strong  performance  in  any  kind  of  sintering  operation.  We  produce  BRBF  by
blending fines from Caraj ´as, which contain a higher concentration of iron and a lower concentration of
silica  in  the  ore,  with  fines  from  the  Southern  and  Southeastern  Systems,  which  contain  a  lower
concentration of iron in the ore. It is blended and sold in our Teluk Rubiah Maritime Terminal in Malaysia
and in twelve distribution centers in China. This process reduces the time needed to reach Asian markets
and increases our distribution capillarity by allowing the use of smaller vessels. The blending strategy also
permits the use of iron ore with lower concentration, particularly from the Southern System, allowing
more  efficient  mining  plans  and  increasing  the  use  of  dry  processing  methods,  which  in  turn  reduce
capital expenditures, extend the life of our mines and reduce the use of water in our operations.

Preserving optionality in our nickel business and increasing production of our copper
assets

Our strategy for our nickel business is to preserve optionality. We are the world’s largest nickel producer,
with  large-scale,  long-life  and  low-cost  operations,  a  substantial  resource  base  and  diversified  mining
operations that produce nickel from nickel sulfide and laterite sources using advanced technology. We are
transitioning to a smaller footprint in our nickel business by calibrating investments and production to
reflect current market conditions, such as the reduction of production volume at Voisey’s Bay while a mine
expansion  project  is  being  reassessed.  In  the  long  term,  the  battery  segment  shows  important  upside
potential as electric vehicle production continues to attract significant investments, which could positively
affect nickel price and our nickel premiums. We continue to optimize our operations and to review our
asset utilization, aiming to increase productivity and improve returns.

A key aspect of our strategy for our copper assets in the Caraj ´as region is to improve efficiency and asset
utilization  while  we  evaluate  opportunities  to  extend  our  operations  at  Sossego  and  expand  Salobo.
These copper mines benefit from our infrastructure facilities serving the Northern System. The gold we
produce at Sossego and Salobo increases the total aggregated value of those operations.

Leveraging our mine and logistics in the coal business

We  have  been  increasing  our  coal  production,  mainly  through  the  ramp-up  of  a  new  coal  handling
processing plant (CHPP) in the Moatize operations and the ramp-up of the Nacala Logistics Corridor (NLC)
in  Mozambique  and  Malawi,  where  we  have  entered  into  a  strategic  partnership  with  Mitsui.  As  we
complete  the  ramp-up  of  our  new  CHPP  in  Moatize  and  the  NLC,  we  expect  our  costs  to  diminish,
enhancing the competitiveness of our coal operations.

Reducing net debt

Our goal is to reduce indebtedness to US$10 billion by the end of 2018, taking advantage of our cash flow
generation.  This  level  of  net  debt  will  enable  us  to  withstand  cycles  in  the  mining  business  while
maintaining a solid balance sheet and an investment-grade credit rating.

Enhancing corporate governance

Following  the  conversion  of  our  class  A  preferred  shares  into  common  shares,  in  December  2017,  we
completed our listing on the Novo Mercado segment of the B3 exchange (formerly BM&FBovespa), the
special listing segment of B3 for companies committed to the highest standards of corporate governance.
Also in 2017, our shareholders elected two independent board members to the Board of Directors. We are
committed to continuing to improve our corporate governance.

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REORGANIZATION OF OUR SHAREHOLDING STRUCTURE AND LISTING ON NOVO MERCADO

In  2017,  we  successfully  completed  a  series  of  measures  to  simplify  our  shareholding  structure  and
enhance our corporate governance. Below is a summary of these measures:

Business Overview

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

In August 2017, we concluded a voluntary conversion of our class A preferred shares into
common shares and the exchange of preferred American Depositary Shares into common
American  Depositary  Shares.  A  total  of  84.4%  of  the  total  outstanding  class  A  preferred
shares (including class A preferred shares underlying preferred American Depositary Shares)
were  converted  into  common  shares  (including  common  shares  underlying  common
American Depositary Shares).

In August 2017, we concluded the merger of our former controlling shareholder Valepar S.A.
(‘‘Valepar’’) into Vale, and the former shareholders of Valepar became direct shareholders of
Vale.

In August 2017, shareholders’ amendments to our bylaws became effective to provide for:
(i)  at  least  20%  of  our  board  of  directors  to  be  composed  of  independent  directors;
(ii)  mandatory  tender  offer  to  all  shareholders  in  case  of  sale  of  control,  (iii)  mandatory
tender offer in case any shareholder or group of shareholders acquires common shares in an
amount equal to or greater than 25% of our total common shares; (iv) any disputes between
us and our shareholders to be resolved by arbitration before the B3 arbitration chamber.

In  October  2017,  our  shareholders  approved  the  mandatory  conversion  of  the  remaining
class A preferred shares into common shares, which was successfully completed in November
2017. Following the completion of the mandatory conversion, we no longer have class A
preferred shares, and our capital stock is composed of common shares and the 12 golden
shares owned by the Brazilian government.

(cid:127) On December 22, 2017, we completed our listing on the Novo Mercado segment of the B3
exchange  (formerly  BM&FBovespa),  the  special  listing  segment  of  B3  for  companies
committed to the highest standards of corporate governance.

In  August  2017,  upon  conclusion  of  the  merger  of  Valepar  into  Vale,  certain  former  shareholders  of
Valepar entered into a Shareholders’ Agreement pursuant to which they undertake, among other things,
to vote jointly on certain key matters. This Shareholders’ Agreement is expected to expire in November
2020. See Share ownership and trading—Major shareholders.

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN OUR BUSINESS

We  summarize  below  major  events  related  to  our  divestitures,  acquisitions  and  other  significant
developments in our business since the beginning of 2017.

Dispositions and asset sales

We are always seeking to optimize the structure of our portfolio of businesses in order to achieve the
most  efficient  allocation  of  capital.  We  summarize  below  our  most  significant  dispositions  since  the
beginning of 2017.

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Business Overview

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Sale of Fertilizer Business—In January 2018, we completed the sale to The Mosaic Company
(‘‘Mosaic’’) of a substantial part of our fertilizer business, which includes (i) our phosphate
assets in Brazil; (ii) our stake in the joint venture that operates the phosphate rock mine in
Bay ´ovar, Peru; (iii) our potash assets located in Brazil; and (iv) our potash project based in
Canada 
in  cash
(Kronau).  The  contractual  consideration  was  US$1.150  billion 
(US$1.080 billion  following  customary  working  capital  adjustments),  and  approximately
34.2 million shares of Mosaic’s common stock, which corresponds to approximately 8.9% (on
a post-issuance basis) of Mosaic’s outstanding common stock. Subject to limited exceptions,
the Mosaic shares to be issued to us cannot be transferred for two years following closing.
We have the right to appoint two members of Mosaic’s board of directors, one of whom
must be independent, for so long as we hold at least 90% of the Mosaic shares received at
closing, or one member of Mosaic’s board for so long as we hold at least 50% of the Mosaic
shares received at closing. We appointed Mr. Luciano Siani to Mosaic’s board of directors,
and will appoint another director at Mosaic’s next annual shareholders’ meeting.

Sale  of  Cubat ˜ao  assets—On  November  17,  2017,  we  entered  into  a  share  purchase
agreement with Yara International ASA to sell our wholly owned subsidiary, Vale Cubat ˜ao
Fertilizantes Ltda., which owns and operates the nitrogen and phosphate assets located in
Cubat ˜ao, Brazil. The purchase price is US$255 million to be paid in cash upon the closing of
the transaction, which is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2018. Consummation of
the transaction is subject to the satisfaction of various conditions precedent, including the
approval of the Brazilian antitrust authority (CADE).

Sale of very large ore carriers—In August 2017 and in December 2017, we sold a total of four
very  large  ore  carriers  of  400,000  deadweight  tons  (‘‘DWT’’)  for  an  aggregate  amount  of
US$356 million to Bank of Communications Finance Leasing Co., Ltd. (Bocomm). With the
completion of these sales, we no longer own any very large ore carriers of 400,000 DWT in
our fleet. In addition, we also sold two floating transfer stations for an aggregate amount of
US$35 million.

Sale of Lubambe.—In December 2017, we sold our 50% interest in the joint venture that
owned 80% of Lubambe copper mine, in Zambia, to EMR Capital Bidco (No.2C) Limited for
US$42 million.

Partnership in coal assets in Mozambique

We have a partnership with Mitsui in coal assets in Mozambique. In March 2017, we completed the equity
transaction with Mitsui, which consisted of: (i) the sale of 15% of our 95% stake in the Moatize coal mine,
(ii) the sale of 50% of Vale’s stake in the NLC and (iii) a long-term facility by Mitsui to NLC. We received
US$690 million upon completion of the equity transaction in March 2017, and US$87 million in the first
quarter of 2018 upon closing of the project financing described below.

In November 2017, the NLC entities entered into agreements for a project financing in the total amount
of US$2.730 billion, as follows:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

US$1.030 billion provided by Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC);

US$1.000 billion loan insured by Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEXI), provided
by Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation; The Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd; Mizuho
Bank  Limited;  Sumitomo  Mitsui  Trust  Bank  Limited;  Nippon  Life  Insurance  Company  and
Standard Chartered Bank;

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Business Overview

(cid:127)

US$400  million  loan  insured  by  Export  Credit  Insurance  of  South  Africa  Limited  (ECIC),
provided  by  ABSA  Bank  Limited;  Investec  Bank  Limited;  Rand  Merchant  Bank  and  The
Standard Bank of South Africa Limited;

(cid:127)

US$300 million provided by the African Development Bank (AfDB).

The transaction closed in February 2018 and we received the proceeds of the project financing in March
2018. Vale received US$2.6 billion in proceeds, in repayment of certain shareholders loans provided for
construction  of  NLC,  net  of  certain  commissions  paid  by  NLC.  The  project  financing  will  be  repaid  in
14 years with the proceeds obtained from the tariff charged by NLC in connection with its provision of
coal transportation services and general cargo services.

Optimizing our base metals operations in Canada

We are optimizing our nickel operations across Canada, as part of an overall strategy to prioritize value
over volume, reduce our atmospheric emissions and comply with local regulations. In 2018, we will phase
out  our  smelting  and  refining  activities  in  Thompson,  where  we  will  focus  on  nickel  concentrate
production. As a result, we will concentrate more of our refining and smelting activities in Sudbury, where
we will focus on the production of copper concentrate, copper matte and refined nickel. In Long Harbour,
we produce nickel rounds, copper cathode and cobalt rounds.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Sudbury, Ontario—In the second half of 2017, we converted our two-furnace operation in
Sudbury into a single furnace operation. As a result of this change, we expect to increase the
proportion of production of copper concentrate to total copper production from the current
rate of 66% in 2017 to close to 73% in 2018, maximizing the smelter capacity for nickel. In
addition, we ceased production of copper anode and increased production of copper matte.
By the end of 2018, we expect that about 15% of our copper production will be sold in the
form of copper matte. We rebuilt one of the operational furnaces from March 2017 to June
2017, followed by the permanent shutdown of the other furnace. The rebuilt furnace had its
capacity increased, but due to the single furnace operation, overall smelter production in the
long term will decrease by approximately 30%.

Thompson, Manitoba—We intend to change our operations in Thompson, Manitoba, from
an integrated operation to a mine-mill operation. We permanently shut down one of the
two smelter furnaces at the site in 2017, and we expect to decommission the other furnace in
2018, therefore closing the remaining smelting and refining activities to focus the operation
solely  on  nickel  concentrate  production.  We  plan  to  send  the  majority  of  the  feed  from
Thompson to be refined in Sudbury and Long Harbour.

Voisey’s Bay and Long Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador—In 2017, we shipped a greater
proportion  of  Voisey’s  Bay  nickel  concentrate  to  our  Long  Harbour  processing  facility,
reducing concentrate shipments to our Sudbury and Thompson operations. Starting in 2018,
all Voisey’s Bay nickel concentrate is being shipped to our Long Harbour refinery. Our Long
Harbour processing facilities produce nickel rounds, copper cathode and cobalt rounds from
the Voisey’s Bay concentrate.

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Business Overview

Resumption of operations of S˜ao Luis and Tubar˜ao I and II pellet plants

In  January  2018,  we  resumed  the  operations  of  our  Tubar ˜ao  II  pellet  plant.  We  expect  to  resume
operations  at  the  Tubar ˜ao  I  and  S ˜ao  Luis  pellet  plants  in  the  second  and  third  quarters  of  2018.  The
operations of these plants had been suspended since 2012 due to market conditions.

FAILURE OF SAMARCO’S TAILINGS DAM IN MINAS GERAIS

Samarco’s dam failure

In  November  2015,  the  Fund ˜ao  tailings  dams  owned  by  Samarco  S.A.  failed,  releasing  tailings
downstream, flooding certain communities and causing impacts on communities and the environment
along the Doce river. The failure resulted in 19 fatalities and caused property and environmental damage
to the affected areas. Samarco is a joint venture equally owned by Vale S.A. and BHP Billiton Brasil Ltda.
(‘‘BHPB’’), a Brazilian subsidiary of BHP Billiton plc.

Emergency actions

Immediately after the dam failure, Samarco, together with the public authorities, provided first aid, food,
water, housing, social assistance and financial aid to the affected families and individuals. As Samarco’s
shareholders, we were actively involved in supporting Samarco during this period. In addition to these
emergency  actions,  Samarco  has  been  monitoring  the  affected  area,  performing  emergency  work  to
contain any movement of tailings, reinforcing the structures of its dams and dikes to ensure the safety of
the region and mitigating the environmental and social impacts of the event.

Funda¸c˜ao Renova and the remediation process

In August 2016, Samarco and its shareholders (Vale and BHPB) created the Funda¸c ˜ao Renova, a not-for-
profit  private  foundation,  to  develop  and  implement  (i)  social  and  economic  remediation  and
compensation programs and (ii) environmental remediation and compensation programs in the region
affected by the dam collapse.

The  social  and  economic  remediation  and  compensation  programs  conducted  by  Funda¸c ˜ao  Renova
include, among others:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Registration of the impacted parties and assessment of the impact;

Compensation and indemnification of the impacted parties;

Resettlement of the communities of Bento Rodrigues, Paracatu de Baixo and Gesteira;

Protection and recovery of life quality of impacted indigenous communities;

Implementation of social and cultural activities and psychosocial support to people affected;

Creation of permanent channels of communication and interaction with society;

Recovery and reconstruction of houses, bridges and other damaged infrastructure;

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Business Overview

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Recovery of schools and reintegration of school communities;

Recovery  of  cultural  property,  leisure  and  sport  areas  and  preservation  of  historical  and
cultural heritage;

Development  and  implementation  of  programs  to  support  agricultural  and  livestock
farming, aquaculture, fishing, and other economic activities of the affected regions;

Implementation of specific a program for the recovery of micro and small businesses;

Development of emergency a financial aid program to the affected population.

The environmental remediation and compensation programs conducted by Funda¸c ˜ao Renova include,
among others:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Implementation of tailings retention and treatment systems in impacted rivers;

Recovery  of  vegetation,  regularization  of  gutters  and  margins  of  impacted  rivers  and
measures to control erosion;

Recovery of permanent preservation areas and springs in the Doce River basin;

Assessment  of  impacts  on  water  quality  and  aquatic  biodiversity,  followed  by  actions  for
recovery and conservation of aquatic fauna;

Construction  and  provision  of  resources  for  operational  maintenance  of  wild  animals
screening and rehabilitation centers in Minas Gerais and Esp´ırito Santo;

Collection and sewage treatment;

Improvement of water supply systems;

Implementation of plans for emergency alert and support;

Development of a permanent water and sediments monitoring program in the Doce River
basin and in the sea area near the river’s mouth.

The creation of Funda¸c ˜ao Renova was provided for under the Agreement of Transaction and Conduct
Adjustment (TTAC or Framework Agreement) signed in March 2016 by Vale, BHPB, Samarco, the Brazilian
federal government, the two Brazilian states affected by the failure (Esp´ırito Santo and Minas Gerais) and
other governmental authorities. The Framework Agreement has a 15-year term, renewable for successive
one-year periods until all the obligations under the Framework Agreement have been performed. The
Framework Agreement does not provide for admission of civil, criminal or administrative liability for the
Fund ˜ao dam failure. In January 2017, Samarco, Vale and BHPB entered into two preliminary agreements
with the federal prosecution office (the ‘‘MPF’’) providing for, among other things, the appointment of
experts  selected  by  the  MPF  to  review  and  monitor  the  remediation  programs  provided  under  the
Framework Agreement. The preliminary agreements contemplate a potential revision in the remediation
programs provided under the Framework Agreement, based on the findings of the experts selected by
the MPF.

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Under the Framework Agreement, Funda¸c ˜ao Renova must be funded by Samarco. As Samarco is currently
unable to resume its activities, we and BHPB have been funding the foundation and also providing funds
directly to Samarco, to preserve its operations and to support Samarco’s funding obligations. Samarco’s
funding  obligations  to  Funda¸c ˜ao  Renova,  pursuant  to  the  Framework  Agreement,  are  summarized
below:

Business Overview

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

R$2.0 billion in 2016;

R$1.2 billion in 2017;

R$1.2 billion in 2018;

From  2019  to  2021,  Samarco  will  provide  funding  based  on  the  amounts  needed  to
implement  the  projects  approved  for  each  year,  subject  to  an  annual  minimum  of
R$800 million and an annual maximum of R$1.6 billion; and

Starting in 2022, Samarco will provide the necessary funding in order to complete remaining
programs approved for each year.

Funda¸c ˜ao  Renova  must  allocate  a  minimum  annual  amount  of  R$240  million  over  15  years  to  the
implementation  of  compensation  programs;  these  annual  amounts  are  included  in  the  annual
contributions described above for the first six years.

Under the terms of the Framework Agreement, Funda¸c ˜ao Renova must spend R$500 million on sewage
collection and treatment and solid waste disposal through the end of 2018.

Funda¸c ˜ao  Renova  and  Samarco  allocated  R$1.7 billion  to  remediation  and  compensation  programs
in 2017, and have allocated R$3.2 billion to these programs since their creation.

Impact of dam failure on Samarco’s operations

Following the dam failure, governmental authorities ordered the suspension of Samarco’s operations.
Samarco’s management is working on a plan that would permit it to obtain the necessary licenses and
approvals  to  resume  operations  and  provide  a  long-term  solution  for  the  disposal  of  tailings.  The
feasibility,  timing  and  scope  of  measures  necessary  to  resume  Samarco’s  operations  remain  uncertain.
With the exception of the Fund ˜ao tailings dam and the Santar ´em water dam, which was impacted by the
overflow  of  tailings  from  the  Fund ˜ao  dam,  all  other  production  assets  owned  by  Samarco  were
undamaged.

Impact of the failure of Samarco’s tailings dam in our financial statements

For a discussion of the impact of the failure of Samarco’s tailings dam in our financial statements, see
Operating and financial review and prospects—Failure of Samarco’s tailing dams.

Legal proceedings

For  a  discussion  of  the  legal  proceedings  resulting  from  the  failure  of  Samarco’s  tailings  dam,  see
Additional information—Legal proceedings.

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SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The tables below present selected consolidated financial information as of and for the periods indicated.
You  should  read  this  information  together  with  our  consolidated  financial  statements  in  this  annual
report.

Consolidated statement of income data

Net operating revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of goods sold and services rendered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general, administrative and other operating expenses,
net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and evaluation expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pre-operating and operational stoppage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment and other results on non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-operating income (expenses):
Financial income (expenses), net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment and other results in associates and joint ventures . . .

Net income (loss) before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests. . . . . . .

Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to
Vale’s stockholders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to
Vale’s stockholders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to Vale’s stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests. . . . . . .

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For the year ended December 31,

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

43,953
(21,668)

35,124
(22,790)

(US$ million)
23,384
(18,751)

27,488
(17,650)

33,967
(21,039)

(1,101)
(748)
(2,375)
(397)

17,664

(8,314)
469
14

9,833
(6,889)

2,944
(191)

(2,059)
(662)
(975)
(266)

8,372

(6,018)
501
(61)

2,794
(1,603)

1,191
(308)

(819)
(395)
(942)
(8,708)

(6,231)

(10,654)
(445)
(349)

(17,679)
5,249

(12,430)
(501)

(774)
(319)
(453)
(1,240)

7,052

1,843
309
(1,220)

7,984
(2,781)

5,203
(8)

(951)
(340)
(413)
(294)

10,930

(3,019)
98
180

7,829
(1,495)

6,334
21

3,135

1,499

(11,929)

5,211

6,313

(2,551)
584

(178)

406

(842)
657

(304)

353

(200)
(12,129)

(491)

(12,620)

1,500

(1,229)
3,982

(6)

3,976

250

(806)
5,507

14

5,521

1,456

Total cash paid to stockholders(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,500

4,200

(1)

Consists of total cash paid to stockholders during the period, whether classified as dividends or interest on stockholders’ equity.

Earnings (loss) per share

The table below shows our earnings (loss) per share. The earnings (loss) per share for 2013 to 2016 have
been  retrospectively  adjusted  to  reflect  the  conversion  of  our  Class  A  preferred  shares  into  common
shares, which was concluded in November 2017, as if the conversion had occurred at the beginning of the
earliest year presented.

For the year ended December 31,

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

(US$, except as noted)

Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations . .
Earnings (loss) per common share from discontinued operations

Earnings (loss) per common share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.60
(0.49)

0.11

0.29
(0.16)

0.13

(2.30)
(0.03)

(2.33)

1.00
(0.23)

0.77

1.21
(0.16)

1.05

Weighted average number of shares outstanding (in
thousands)(1)(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,197,432

5,197,432

5,197,432

5,197,432

5,197,432

Distributions to stockholders per share(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expressed in US$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expressed in R$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.87
1.81

0.81
1.89

0.29
0.98

0.05
0.17

0.28
0.90

Each common ADS represents one common share.
Restated as if the conversion had occurred at the beginning of the earliest year presented.

(1)
(2)
(3) Our distributions to shareholders may be classified as either dividends or interest on shareholders’ equity. In many years, part of
each distribution has been classified as interest on shareholders’ equity and part has been classified as dividends. For information
about distributions paid to shareholders, see Share ownership and trading—Distributions.

12
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Selected Financial Data

Balance sheet data

As of December 31,

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

Current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property, plant and equipment, net and intangible assets . . . . . . .
Investments in associated companies and joint ventures . . . . . . . . .
Non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20,611
3,766
88,536
3,584
8,100

16,594
3,640
84,942
4,133
7,180

(US$ million)
11,429
4,044
59,426
2,940
10,653

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

124,597

116,489

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Liabilities associated with non-current assets held for sale . . . . . . .
Long-term liabilities(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term debt(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9,164
448
22,379
27,670

Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

59,661

Stockholders’ equity:

Capital stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additional paid-in capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Retained earnings and revenue reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

60,578
(552)
3,299

Total Vale shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

63,325

Non-controlling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,611

Total stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

64,936

10,626
111
22,043
27,388

60,168

61,614
(601)
(5,891)

55,122

1,199

56,321

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

124,597

116,489

88,492

10,438
107
15,896
26,347

52,788

61,614
(854)
(27,171)

33,589

2,115

35,704

88,492

13,978
8,589
62,290
3,696
10,461

99,014

10,142
1,090
19,096
27,662

57,990

61,614
(851)
(21,721)

39,042

1,982

41,024

99,014

15,367
3,587
63,371
3,568
13,291

99,184

11,935
1,179
20,512
20,786

54,412

61,614
(1,106)
(17,050)

43,458

1,314

44,772

99,184

(1)
(2)

Excludes long-term debt.
Excludes current portion of long-term debt.

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12APR201813380467

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This  annual  report  contains  statements  that  may  constitute  forward-looking  statements  within  the
meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Many of
those  forward-looking  statements  can  be  identified  by  the  use  of  forward-looking  words  such  as
‘‘anticipate,’’ ‘‘believe,’’ ‘‘could,’’ ‘‘expect,’’ ‘‘should,’’ ‘‘plan,’’ ‘‘intend,’’ ‘‘estimate’’ and ‘‘potential,’’ among
others.  Those  statements  appear  in  a  number  of  places  and  include  statements  regarding  our  intent,
belief or current expectations with respect to:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

our direction and future operation;

the  implementation  of  our  principal  operating  strategies,  including  our  potential
participation  in  acquisition,  divestiture  or  joint  venture  transactions  or  other  investment
opportunities;

the implementation of our financing strategy and capital expenditure plans;

the exploration of mineral reserves and development of mining facilities;

the depletion and exhaustion of mines and mineral reserves;

trends in commodity prices, supply and demand for commodities;

the future impact of competition and regulation;

the payment of dividends or interest on shareholders’ equity;

compliance with financial covenants;

industry trends, including the direction of prices and expected levels of supply and demand;

the outcome of the various regulatory, governmental and legal proceedings in which we are
involved;

other factors or trends affecting our financial condition or results of operations; and

the factors discussed under Risk factors.

We caution you that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve
risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a
result of various factors. These risks and uncertainties include factors relating to (a) economic, political
and  social  issues  in  the  countries  in  which  we  operate,  (b)  the  global  economy,  (c)  commodity  prices,
(d) financial and capital markets, (e) the mining and metals businesses, which are cyclical in nature, and
their dependence upon global industrial production, which is also cyclical, (f) regulation and taxation,
(g) operational incidents or accidents, and (h) the high degree of global competition in the markets in
which we operate. For additional information on factors that could cause our actual results to differ from
expectations reflected in forward-looking statements, see Risk factors. Forward-looking statements speak
only as of the date they are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update them in light of new
information or future developments. All forward-looking statements attributed to us or a person acting
on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, and you should not
place undue reliance on any forward-looking statement.

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RISK FACTORS

EXTERNAL RISKS

Our business is exposed to the cyclicality of global economic activity and requires significant
investments of capital.

As a mining company, we are a supplier of industrial raw materials. Industrial production tends to be the
most cyclical and volatile component of global economic activity, which affects demand for minerals and
metals.  At  the  same  time,  investment  in  mining  requires  a  substantial  amount  of  funds  in  order  to
replenish  reserves,  expand  and  maintain  production  capacity,  build  infrastructure,  preserve  the
environment and minimize social impacts. Sensitivity to industrial production, together with the need for
significant long-term capital investments, are important sources of risk for our financial performance and
growth prospects.

Also, we may not be able to adjust production volume in a timely or cost-efficient manner in response to
changes  in  demand.  Lower  utilization  of  capacity  during  periods  of  weak  demand  may  expose  us  to
higher unit production costs since a significant portion of our cost structure is fixed in the short-term due
to the capital intensity of mining operations. In addition, efforts to reduce costs during periods of weak
demand could be limited by labor regulations or previous labor or government agreements. Conversely,
during periods of high demand, our ability to rapidly increase production capacity is limited, which could
prevent us from meeting demand for our products. Moreover, we may be unable to complete expansions
and greenfield projects in time to take advantage of rising demand for iron ore, nickel or other products.
When demand exceeds our production capacity, we may meet excess customer demand by purchasing
iron ore, iron ore pellets or nickel from joint ventures or unrelated parties and reselling it, which would
increase our costs and narrow our operating margins. If we are unable to satisfy excess customer demand
in this way, we may lose customers. In addition, operating close to full capacity may expose us to higher
costs, including demurrage fees due to capacity restraints in our logistics systems.

The prices for our products are subject to volatility, which may adversely affect our business.

Global prices for metals are subject to significant fluctuations and are affected by many factors, including
actual and expected global macroeconomic and political conditions, regional and sectorial factors, levels
of  supply  and  demand,  the  availability  and  cost  of  substitutes,  inventory  levels,  technological
developments, regulatory and international trade matters, investments by commodity funds and others
and actions of participants in the commodity markets. Sustained low market prices for the products we
sell  may  result  in  the  suspension  of  certain  of  our  projects  and  operations,  decrease  in  our  mineral
reserves, impairment of assets, and may adversely affect our cash flows, financial position and results of
operations.

Demand for our iron ore, coal and nickel products depends on global demand for steel. Iron ore and iron
ore pellets, which together accounted for 71.2% of our 2017 net operating revenues, are used to produce
carbon steel. Nickel, which accounted for 13.7% of our 2017 net operating revenues, is used mainly to
produce stainless and alloy steels. The prices of different steels and the performance of the global steel
industry are highly cyclical and volatile, and these business cycles in the steel industry affect demand and
prices for our products. In addition, vertical backward integration of the steel and stainless steel industries
and the use of scrap could reduce the global seaborne trade of iron ore and primary nickel. The demand
for copper is affected by the demand for copper wire, and a sustained decline in the construction industry
could have a negative impact on our copper business.

We are mostly affected by movements in iron ore prices. For example, a price reduction of US$1 per dry
metric ton unit (‘‘dmt’’) in the average iron ore price would have reduced our operating income for the
year ended December 31, 2017 by approximately US$300 million. Average iron ore prices significantly

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Risk Factors

changed in the last five years, from US$135 per dmt in 2013 to US$97 per dmt in 2014, US$55.5 per dmt in
2015, US$58.5 per dmt in 2016 and US$71.3 per dmt in 2017, according to the average Platts IODEX (62%
Fe CFR China). On February 28, 2018, the year to date average Platts IODEX iron ore price was US$76.60
per dmt. See Operating and financial review and prospects—Overview—Major factors affecting prices.

Adverse economic developments in China could have a negative impact on our revenues, cash
flow and profitability.

China has been the main driver of global demand for minerals and metals over the last few years. In 2017,
Chinese demand represented 74% of global demand for seaborne iron ore, 55% of global demand for
nickel and 48% of global demand for copper. The percentage of our net operating revenues attributable
to sales to customers in China was 41.3% in 2017. Therefore, any contraction of China’s economic growth
could result in lower demand for our products, leading to lower revenues, cash flow and profitability.
Poor performance in the Chinese real estate sector, the largest consumer of carbon steel in China, would
also negatively impact our results.

Changes in exchange rates for the currencies in which we conduct operations could adversely
affect our financial condition and results of operations.

A substantial portion of our revenues, trade receivables and our debt is denominated in U.S. dollars, and
given that our functional currency is the Brazilian real, changes in exchange rates may result in (i) losses or
gains on our net U.S. dollar-denominated indebtedness and accounts receivable and (ii) fair value losses or
gains on currency derivatives we use to stabilize our cash flow in U.S. dollars. In 2017, we had net foreign
exchange losses of US$463 million, while we had net foreign exchange gains of US$3.252 billion in 2016
and net foreign exchange losses of US$7.044 billion in 2015. In addition, changing values of the Brazilian
real,  the  Canadian  dollar,  the  Australian  dollar,  the  Euro,  the  Indonesian  rupiah  and  other  currencies
against the U.S. dollar affects our results since most of our costs of goods sold is denominated in currencies
other than the U.S. dollar, principally the real (52% in 2017) and the Canadian dollar (12% in 2017), while
our revenues are mostly U.S. dollar-denominated. We expect currency fluctuations to continue to affect
our financial income, expense and cash flow generation.

Significant volatility in currency prices may also result in disruption of foreign exchange markets, which
could limit our ability to transfer or to convert certain currencies into U.S. dollars and other currencies for
the purpose of making timely payments of interest and principal on our indebtedness. The central banks
and governments of the countries in which we operate may institute restrictive exchange rate policies in
the future and impose taxes on foreign exchange transactions.

FINANCIAL RISKS

Lower cash flows, resulting from decreased prices of our products, may adversely affect our
credit ratings and the cost and availability of financing.

Lower prices of our products may adversely affect our future cash flows, credit ratings and our ability to
secure  financing  at  attractive  rates.  It  may  also  negatively  affect  our  ability  to  fund  our  capital
investments,  provide  the  financial  assurances  required  to  obtain  licenses  in  certain  jurisdictions,  pay
dividends  and  comply  with  the  financial  covenants  in  some  of  our  long-term  debt  instruments.  See
Operating and financial review and prospects—Liquidity and capital resources.

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Risk Factors

We  may  not  be  able  to  implement  our  strategy  with  respect  to  divestments  and  strategic
partnerships.

In  the  past  few  years,  we  have  entered  into  agreements  to  dispose  of  assets  and  to  make  strategic
partnerships,  in  order  to  optimize  our  business  portfolio  and  implement  our  financing  strategy  and
capital  expenditure  plans.  We  may  continue  to  seek  opportunities  for  divestments  and  strategic
partnerships in the future. We are exposed to a number of risks in connection with these transactions,
including imposition of regulatory conditions, inability to satisfy conditions for completion or for receipt
of additional payments, and negative market reactions. If we are unable to complete our dispositions or
strategic partnerships, we may have to revise our business and financing strategy and incur additional
costs, which could in turn adversely affect our results of operations, financial conditions or reputation.

RISKS RELATING TO LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

We are involved in legal proceedings that could have a material adverse effect on our business
in the event of unfavorable outcomes.

We are involved in legal proceedings in which adverse parties have sought injunctions to suspend certain
of our operations or claimed substantial amounts, including several legal proceedings and investigations
relating to the failure of Samarco’s Fund ˜ao tailings dam. Although we are vigorously contesting them, the
outcomes of these proceedings are uncertain and may materially and adversely affect our business, our
liquidity and the value of the securities issued by us or our subsidiaries. See Additional information—Legal
proceedings.

Our obligations and potential liabilities arising from the failure of a tailings dam owned by
Samarco Minera¸c˜ao S.A. (‘‘Samarco’’) in Minas Gerais could negatively impact our business,
our financial conditions and our reputation.

In November 2015, the Fund ˜ao tailings dam owned by Samarco failed, causing environmental damage in
the surrounding area. The failure of Samarco’s tailings dam has adversely affected and will continue to
affect our business, and the full impact is still uncertain and cannot be estimated. Below is a discussion of
the main effects of the dam failure on our business.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Legal  proceedings. We  are  involved  in  multiple  legal  proceedings  and  investigations
relating to the failure of the Fund ˜ao tailings dam, and other proceedings and investigations
may arise in the future. These proceedings include securities class actions in the United States
against  us  and  some  of  our  officers,  a  criminal  proceeding  in  Brazil,  public  civil  actions
brought by Brazilian authorities and multiple proceedings involving claims for significant
amounts of damages and remediation measures. Adverse results in these proceedings may
adversely  impact  our  liquidity  and  our  financial  condition.  See  Additional  information—
Legal proceedings.

Reparation  obligations  and  other  undertakings. In  March  2016,  Samarco  and 
its
shareholders  (Vale  and  BHPB)  entered  into  the  Framework  Agreement  with  certain
governmental authorities, pursuant to which Samarco, Vale and BHPB agreed to create a
foundation  (Funda¸c ˜ao  Renova)  to  develop  and  implement  long-term  remediation  and
compensation  programs.  In  January  2017,  Samarco,  Vale  and  BHPB  entered  into  two
preliminary agreements with the MPF providing for, among other things, the appointment
of experts selected by the MPF to review and monitor the remediation programs provided
under the Framework Agreement, the provision of collateral to secure certain remediation
obligations,  and  a  timetable  for  negotiation  of  a  final  agreement.  The  preliminary

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12APR201813380467

Risk Factors

agreements contemplate a potential revision in the remediation programs provided under
the Framework Agreement, based on the findings of the experts selected by the MPF. As
Samarco  is  currently  unable  to  resume  its  activities,  we  and  BHPB  have  been  funding
Funda¸c ˜ao Renova and also providing funds directly to Samarco, to preserve its operations
and to support certain remediation measures undertaken by Samarco. If Samarco is unable
to resume operations or to generate sufficient cash flows to fund the remediation measures
required  under  these  agreements,  we  will  be  required  to  continue  funding  these
remediation  measures,  which  in  turn  may  adversely  affect  our  financial  conditions  and
results  of  operations.  See  Business  overview—Failure  of  Samarco’s  tailings  dam  in  Minas
Gerais.

(cid:127)

Risk  of  additional  environmental  damages. Failure  to  contain  the  remaining  tailings  in
Samarco’s dams could cause additional environmental damages, additional impacts on our
operations, and additional claims, fines and proceedings against Samarco and against us.
Failure to contain the remaining tailings could also impact the feasibility and timing for the
restart of Samarco’s operations.

(cid:127) Other impacts. We may encounter delays in the receipt of environmental and other licenses
for  our  tailings  dams  and  other  facilities,  and  Brazilian  authorities  may  impose  more
stringent conditions in connection with the licensing process of our projects and operations.
Also, as one of Samarco’s shareholders, our reputation has been adversely affected by the
failure of Samarco’s tailings dam.

POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND REGULATORY RISKS

Political,  economic  and  social  conditions  in  the  countries  in  which  we  have  operations  or
projects could adversely impact our business.

Our  financial  performance  may  be  negatively  affected  by  regulatory,  political,  economic  and  social
conditions in countries in which we have significant operations or projects. In many of these jurisdictions,
we  are  exposed  to  various  risks  such  as  political  instability,  bribery,  extortion,  corruption,  robbery,
sabotage, kidnapping, civil strife, acts of war, guerilla activities, piracy in international shipping routes
and  terrorism.  These  issues  may  adversely  affect  the  economic  and  other  conditions  under  which  we
operate in ways that could have a materially negative effect on our business.

Political and economic instability in Brazil could adversely impact our business and the market
price of our securities.

The Brazilian federal government’s economic policies may have important effects on Brazilian companies,
including  us,  and  on  market  conditions  and  prices  of  securities  of  Brazilian  companies.  Our  financial
condition and results of operations may be adversely affected by the following factors and the Brazilian
federal government’s response to these factors:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

exchange rate movements and volatility;

inflation and high interest rates;

financing of the current account deficit;

liquidity of domestic capital and lending markets;

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12APR201813380467

Risk Factors

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

tax policy;

political  instability  resulting  from  allegations  of  corruption  involving  political  parties,
elected officials or other public officials; and

other political, diplomatic, social and economic developments in or affecting Brazil.

Historically, the country’s political situation has influenced the performance of the Brazilian economy, and
political  crises  have  affected  the  confidence  of  investors  and  the  general  public,  which  resulted  in
economic deceleration, downgrading of credit ratings of the Brazilian government and Brazilian issuers,
and  heightened  volatility  in  the  securities  issued  abroad  by  Brazilian  companies.  In  August  2016,  the
Brazilian  Congress  approved  the  impeachment  of  the  Brazilian  president.  Also,  ongoing  corruption
investigations have led to charges against former and current public officials, members of several major
political  parties  and  directors  and  officers  of  many  Brazilian  companies.  In  addition,  Brazil’s  next
presidential and federal legislative election will be in October 2018. We cannot predict the outcome of
these elections or whether the elections will result in changes in Brazilian governmental and economic
policies or in the Brazilian mining industry. Political instability and the upcoming elections may aggravate
economic uncertainties in Brazil and increase volatility of securities of Brazilian issuers.

In the last years, Brazil faced an economic recession, adverse fiscal developments and political instability.
Brazilian GDP grew by 1.0% in 2017, but declined by 3.6% in 2016 and by 3.85% in 2015. Unemployment
rate was 12.7% in 2017, 11.5% in 2016 and 6.9% in 2015. Inflation, as reported by the consumer price
index (IPCA), was 2.95% in 2017, 6.29% in 2016 and 10.67% in 2015. The Brazilian Central Bank’s base
interest rate (SELIC) was 7.00% on December 31, 2017, 13.75% on December 31, 2016 and 14.25% on
December 31, 2015. Future economic, social and political developments in Brazil may impair our business,
financial condition or results of operations, or cause the market value of our securities to decline.

Disagreements  with  local  communities  in  which  we  operate  could  adversely  impact  our
business and reputation.

Disputes  with  communities  where  we  operate  may  arise  from  time  to  time.  In  some  instances,  our
operations and mineral reserves are located on or near lands owned or used by indigenous people or
other groups of stakeholders. Some of our mining and other operations are located in territories where
title  may  be  subject  to  disputes  or  uncertainties,  or  in  areas  claimed  for  agriculture  or  land  reform
purposes,  which  may  lead  to  disagreements  with  landowners,  organized  social  movements,  local
communities and the government. In some jurisdictions, we may be required to consult and negotiate
with these groups as part of the process to obtain licenses required to operate, to mitigate impact on our
operations or to obtain access to their lands.

Disagreements or disputes with local groups, including indigenous groups, organized social movements
and local communities, could cause delays in obtaining licenses, increases in planned budget, delays or
interruptions to our operations. These issues may adversely affect our reputation or otherwise hamper
our ability to develop our reserves and conduct our operations. Protesters have taken actions to disrupt
our  operations  and  projects,  and  they  may  continue  to  do  so  in  the  future,  which  may  harm  our
operations  and  could  adversely  affect  our  business.  See  Information  on  the  Company—Regulatory
matters and Additional information—Legal proceedings.

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Risk Factors

We  could  be  adversely  affected  by  changes  in  government  policies  or  by  trends  such  as
resource nationalism, including the imposition of new taxes or royalties on mining activities.

Mining is subject to government regulation, including taxes and royalties, which can have a significant
financial impact on our operations. In the countries where we are present, we are subject to potential
renegotiation,  nullification  or  forced  modification  of  existing  contracts  and  licenses,  expropriation  or
nationalization of property, foreign exchange controls, changes in local laws, regulations and policies and
audits and reassessments. We are also subject to new taxes or raising of existing taxes and royalty rates,
reduction of tax exemptions and benefits, renegotiation of tax stabilization agreements or changes on
the basis on which taxes are calculated in a manner that is unfavorable to us. Governments that have
committed  to  provide  a  stable  taxation  or  regulatory  environment  may  alter  those  commitments  or
shorten their duration. We also face the risk of having to submit to the jurisdiction of a foreign court or
arbitration panel or having to enforce a judgment against a sovereign nation within its own territory. See
Information  on  the  Company—Regulatory  matters  and  Additional  information—Royalties  and  other
taxes on mining activities.

We  are  also  required  to  meet  domestic  beneficiation  requirements  in  certain  countries,  such  as  local
processing rules, export taxes or restrictions or charges on unprocessed ores. The imposition of or increase
in such requirements, taxes or charges can significantly increase the risk profile and costs of operations in
those jurisdictions. We and the mining industry are subject to rising trends of resource nationalism in
certain countries in which we operate that can result in constraints on our operations, increased taxation
or even expropriations and nationalizations.

As a supplier of iron ore, nickel and other raw materials to the global integrated steel industry, we are
subject to additional risk from the imposition of duties, tariffs, import and export controls and other trade
barriers  impacting  our  products  and  the  products  our  customers  produce.  Global  trade  is  subject  to  a
growing trend of increased trade barriers, which could exacerbate commodities’ price volatility and in
turn result in instability in the prices of our products.

Concessions,  authorizations,  licenses  and  permits  are  subject  to  expiration,  limitation  on
renewal and various other risks and uncertainties.

Our operations depend on authorizations and concessions from governmental regulatory agencies in the
countries  in  which  we  operate.  We  are  subject  to  laws  and  regulations  in  many  jurisdictions  that  can
change at any time, and changes in laws and regulations may require modifications to our technologies
and operations and result in unanticipated capital expenditures.

Some of our mining concessions are subject to fixed expiration dates and might only be renewed a limited
number of times for a limited period of time. Apart from mining concessions, we may need to obtain
various authorizations, licenses and permits from governmental or other regulatory bodies in connection
with the planning, maintenance, operation and closure of our mines and related logistics infrastructure,
which may be subject to fixed expiration dates or periodic review or renewal. There is no assurance that
renewals will be granted as and when sought, and there is no assurance that new conditions will not be
imposed in connection with renewal. Fees for mining concessions might increase substantially due to the
passage of time from the original issuance of each individual exploration license. If so, the costs of holding
or renewing our mining concessions may render our business objectives not viable. Accordingly, we need
to continually assess the mineral potential of each mining concession, particularly at the time of renewal,
to determine if the costs of maintaining the concession are justified by the results of operations to date,
and we might elect to let some of our concessions lapse. There can be no assurance that concessions will
be obtained on terms favorable to us, or at all, for our future intended mining or exploration targets.

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In a number of jurisdictions where we have exploration projects, we may be required to retrocede to the
state  a  certain  portion  of  the  area  covered  by  the  exploration  license  as  a  condition  to  renewing  the
license or obtaining a mining concession. This requirement can lead to a substantial loss of part of the
mineral deposit originally identified in our feasibility studies. For more information on mining concessions
and other similar rights, see Information on the Company—Regulatory matters.

OPERATIONAL RISKS

Our  projects  are  subject  to  risks  that  may  result  in  increased  costs  or  delay  in  their
implementation.

We are investing to maintain and further increase our production capacity and logistics capabilities. We
regularly  review  the  economic  viability  of  our  projects.  As  a  result  of  this  review,  we  may  decide  to
postpone, suspend or interrupt the implementation of certain projects. Our projects are also subject to a
number of risks that may adversely affect our growth prospects and profitability, including the following:

(cid:127) We may not be able to obtain financing at attractive rates.

(cid:127) We  may  encounter  delays  or  higher  than  expected  costs  in  obtaining  the  necessary
equipment or services and in implementing new technologies to build and operate a project.

(cid:127) Our efforts to develop projects on schedule may be hampered by a lack of infrastructure,

including reliable telecommunications services and power supply.

(cid:127)

Suppliers and contractors may fail to meet their contractual obligations to us.

(cid:127) We may face unexpected weather conditions or other force majeure events.

(cid:127) We may fail to obtain or renew the required permits and licenses to build a project, or we
may experience delays or higher than expected costs in obtaining or renewing them.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Changes  in  market  conditions  or  regulations  may  make  a  project  less  profitable  than
expected at the time we initiated work on it.

There may be accidents or incidents during project implementation.

(cid:127) We may face shortages of skilled personnel.

Operational  problems  could  materially  and  adversely  affect  our  business  and  financial
performance.

Ineffective  project  management  and  operational  breakdowns  might  require  us  to  suspend  or  curtail
operations, which could generally reduce our productivity. Operational breakdowns could entail failure
of critical plant and machinery. There can be no assurance that ineffective project management or other
operational problems will not occur. Any damages to our projects or delays in our operations caused by
ineffective  project  management  or  operational  breakdowns  could  materially  and  adversely  affect  our
business  and  results  of  operations.  Our  business  is  subject  to  a  number  of  operational  risks  that  may
adversely affect our results of operations, such as:

(cid:127)

Unexpected weather conditions or other force majeure events.

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Risk Factors

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Adverse  mining  conditions  delaying  or  hampering  our  ability  to  produce  the  expected
quantity of minerals and to meet specifications required by customers, which can trigger
price adjustments.

Accidents  or  incidents  involving  our  mines,  industrial  facilities  and  related  infrastructure,
such as dams, plants, railway and railway bridges, ports and ships.

Delays or interruptions in the transportation of our products, including with railroads, ports
and ships.

Tropical  diseases,  HIV/AIDS  and  other  contagious  diseases  in  regions  where  some  of  our
operations or projects are located, which pose health and safety risks to our employees.

Labor disputes that may disrupt our operations from time to time.

Changes  in  market  conditions  or  regulations  may  affect  the  economic  prospects  of  an
operation and make it inconsistent with our business strategy.

Failure  to  obtain  the  renewal  of  required  permits  and  licenses,  or  delays  or  higher  than
expected costs in obtaining them.

Disruptions  to  or  unavailability  of  critical  information  technology  systems  or  services
resulting from accidents or malicious acts.

Our business could be adversely affected by the failure of our counterparties, joint venture
partners or joint ventures we do not control to perform their obligations.

Customers, suppliers, contractors, financial institutions, joint venture partners and other counterparties
may fail to perform existing contracts and obligations, which may unfavorably impact our operations and
financial results. The ability of suppliers and customers to perform their obligations may be adversely
affected in times of financial stress and economic downturn.

Important parts of our iron ore, pelletizing, nickel, coal, copper, energy and other businesses are held
through  joint  ventures.  This  may  reduce  our  degree  of  control,  as  well  as  our  ability  to  identify  and
manage risks. Our forecasts and plans for these joint ventures and consortia assume that our partners will
observe their obligations to make capital contributions, purchase products and, in some cases, provide
skilled and competent managerial personnel. If any of our partners fails to observe its commitments, the
affected joint venture or consortium may not be able to operate in accordance with its business plans, or
we may have to increase the level of our investment to implement these plans.

Some  of  our  investments  are  controlled  by  partners  or  have  separate  and  independent  management.
These  investments  may  not  fully  comply  with  our  standards,  controls  and  procedures,  including  our
health, safety, environment and community standards. Failure by any of our partners or joint ventures to
adopt adequate standards, controls and procedures could lead to higher costs, reduced production or
environmental,  health  and  safety  incidents  or  accidents,  which  could  adversely  affect  our  results  and
reputation.

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Risk Factors

We may not have adequate insurance coverage for some business risks.

Our businesses are generally subject to a number of risks and hazards, which could result in damage to, or
destruction  of,  properties,  facilities  and  equipment.  The  insurance  we  maintain  against  risks  that  are
typical  in  our  business  may  not  provide  adequate  coverage.  Insurance  against  some  risks  (including
liabilities for environmental pollution or certain hazards or interruption of certain business activities) may
not be available at a reasonable cost, or at all. Even when it is available, we may self-insure where we
determine  that  is  more  cost-effective  to  do  so.  As  a  result,  accidents  or  other  negative  developments
involving our mining, production or transportation facilities could have a material adverse effect on our
operations.

Labor disputes may disrupt our operations from time to time.

A  substantial  number  of  our  employees,  and  some  of  the  employees  of  our  subcontractors,  are
represented by labor unions and are covered by collective bargaining or other labor agreements, which
are subject to periodic negotiation. Strikes and other labor disruptions at any of our operations could
adversely affect the operation of facilities and the timing of completion and cost of our capital projects.
For more information about labor relations, see Management and employees—Employees. Moreover, we
could be adversely affected by labor disruptions involving unrelated parties that may provide us with
goods or services.

Higher energy costs or energy shortages would adversely affect our business.

Costs of fuel oil, gas and electricity are a significant component of our cost of production, representing
10.8% of our total cost of goods sold in 2017. To fulfill our energy needs, we depend on the following
sources:  oil  byproducts,  which  represented  32.0%  of  total  energy  needs  in  2017,  electricity  (31.6%),
natural gas (16.7%), coal (15.0%) and other energy sources (4.7%).

Electricity  costs  represented  4.6%  of  our  total  cost  of  goods  sold  in  2017.  If  we  are  unable  to  secure
reliable  access  to  electricity  at  acceptable  prices,  we  may  be  forced  to  curtail  production  or  may
experience higher production costs, either of which would adversely affect our results of operations. We
face the risk of energy shortages in the countries where we have operations and projects, especially Brazil,
due to lack of infrastructure or weather conditions, such as floods or droughts. Future shortages, and
government  efforts  to  respond  to  or  prevent  shortages,  may  adversely  impact  the  cost  or  supply  of
electricity for our operations.

Failures 
telecommunications systems may adversely affect our business and reputation.

information  technology,  operational  technology,  cybersecurity  and

in  our 

We rely heavily on information technology, operational technology and telecommunications systems for
the  operation  of  many  of  our  business  processes.  Failures  in  those  systems,  whether  caused  by
obsolescence,  technical  failures,  negligence,  accident  or  malicious  acts,  may  result  in  the  disclosure  or
theft  of  sensitive  information,  misappropriation  of  funds  and  disruptions  to  or  interruption  in  our
business  operations.  We  may  be  the  target  of  attempts  to  gain  unauthorized  access  to  information
technology  and  operational  technology  systems  through  the  internet,  including  sophisticated  and
coordinated attempts often referred to as advanced persistent threats. Disruption of critical information
technology,  operational  technology,  cybersecurity  or  telecommunications  systems,  or  breaches  of
information security, may harm our reputation and have a material adverse effect on our operational
performance, earnings and financial condition.

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HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS

Our business is subject to environmental, health and safety incidents.

Our operations involve the use, handling, storage, discharge and disposal of hazardous substances into
the  environment  and  the  use  of  natural  resources,  and  the  mining  industry  is  generally  subject  to
significant risks and hazards, including fire, explosion, toxic gas leaks, spilling of polluting substances or
other hazardous materials, rockfalls, incidents involving dams, failure of other operational structures and
incidents involving mobile equipment, vehicles or machinery. This could occur by accident or by breach of
operating and maintenance standards, and could result in a significant environmental and social impacts,
damage to or destruction of mineral properties or production facilities, personal injury, illness or death of
employees,  contractors  or  community  members  close  to  operations,  environmental  damage,  delays  in
production, monetary losses and possible legal liability. Additionally, in remote localities, our employees
may  be  exposed  to  tropical  and  contagious  diseases  that  may  affect  their  health  and  safety.
Notwithstanding  our  standards,  policies  and  controls,  our  operations  remain  subject  to  incidents  or
accidents that could adversely affect our business, stakeholders or reputation.

Our  business  may  be  adversely  affected  by  social,  environmental  and  health  and  safety
regulation, including regulations pertaining to climate change.

Nearly all aspects of our activities, products, services and projects around the world are subject to social,
environmental and health and safety regulations, which may expose us to increased liability or increased
costs. These regulations require us to have environmental licenses, permits and authorizations for our
operations  and  projects,  and  to  conduct  environmental  and  social  impact  assessments  in  order  to  get
approval  for  our  projects  and  permission  for  initiating  construction.  Significant  changes  to  existing
operations are also subject to these requirements. Difficulties in obtaining or renewing permits may lead
to  construction  delays,  cost  increases,  and  may  adversely  impact  our  production  volumes.  Social,
environmental and health and safety regulations also impose standards and controls on activities relating
to mineral research, mining, pelletizing activities, railway and marine services, ports, decommissioning,
refining, distribution and marketing of our products. Such regulation may give rise to significant costs and
liabilities. Litigation relating to these or other related matters may adversely affect our financial condition
or cause harm to our reputation.

Social,  environmental  and  health  and  safety  regulations  in  many  countries  in  which  we  operate  has
become stricter in recent years, and it is possible that more regulation or more aggressive enforcement of
existing  regulations  will  adversely  affect  us  by  imposing  restrictions  on  our  activities  and  products,
creating new requirements for the issuance or renewal of environmental licenses, resulting in operation
delays, raising our costs or requiring us to engage in expensive reclamation efforts.

It is possible that in certain of our iron ore mining operations or projects, we may be required to limit or
modify our mining plans or to incur additional costs to preserve caves or to compensate for the impact on
them, with potential consequences for production volumes, costs or reserves in our iron ore business. For
more information about Brazilian environmental regulations related to caves, see Information on the
Company—Regulatory matters—Environmental regulations.

In response to the failure of Samarco’s tailings dam in Minas Gerais, additional environmental and health
and safety laws and regulations may be forthcoming in Brazil and authorities may impose more stringent
conditions  in  connection  with  the  licensing  process  of  our  projects  and  operations.  Also,  we  may
encounter more stringent requirements for and delays in the receipt of environmental operating license
for other tailings dams.

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National  policies  and  international  regulations  regarding  climate  change  may  affect  a  number  of  our
businesses in various countries. The ratification of the Paris Agreement in 2016 increased international
pressure  for  the  establishment  of  a  global  carbon  price,  and  on  companies  to  adopt  carbon  pricing
strategies. The pricing of greenhouse gas emissions may impact our operational costs, mainly through
higher price for fossil fuels as mining is an energy intensive industry, and our cost of international freight.
Consumption  of  coal,  one  of  the  products  we  sell,  in  particular,  is  facing  pressure  from  international
institutions due to its carbon intensity.

Regulatory  initiatives  at  the  national  and  international  levels  that  affect  our  shipping  practices  could
increase our costs or require us to make new capital expenditures.

Natural disasters may cause severe damage to our operations and projects in the countries
where we operate and may have a negative impact on our sales to countries affected by such
disasters.

Natural disasters, such as wind storms, droughts, floods, earthquakes and tsunamis may adversely affect
our operations and projects in the countries where we operate, and may cause a contraction in sales to
countries adversely affected due to, among other factors, power outages and the destruction of industrial
facilities and infrastructure. The physical impact of climate change on our business remains uncertain, but
we are likely to experience changes in rainfall patterns, increased temperatures, water shortages, rising
sea levels, increased storm frequency and intensity as a result of climate change, which may adversely
affect our operations. On some occasions in recent years, we have determined that force majeure events
have occurred due to effect of severe weather on our mining and logistics activities.

RISKS RELATING TO OUR MINING RESERVES

Our reserve estimates may materially differ from mineral quantities that we are actually able
to recover; our estimates of mine life may prove inaccurate; and market price fluctuations and
changes in operating and capital costs may render certain ore reserves uneconomical to mine.

Our  reported  reserves  are  estimated  quantities  of  ore  and  minerals  that  we  have  determined  can  be
economically mined and processed under present and assumed future conditions. There are numerous
uncertainties  inherent  in  estimating  quantities  of  reserves  and  in  projecting  potential  future  rates  of
mineral production, including factors beyond our control. Reserve reporting involves estimating deposits
of minerals that cannot be measured in an exact manner, and the accuracy of any reserve estimate is a
function of the quality of available data, engineering and geological interpretation and judgment. As a
result, no assurance can be given that the indicated amount of ore will be recovered or that it will be
recovered at the rates we anticipate. Reserve estimates and estimates of mine life may require revisions
based  on  actual  production  experience,  projects,  updated  exploration  drilling  data  and  other  factors.
Lower market prices of minerals and metals, reduced recovery rates or increased operating and capital
costs due to inflation, exchange rates, changes in regulatory requirements or other factors may render
proven and probable reserves uneconomic to exploit and may ultimately result in a reduction of reserves.
Such  a  reduction  could  affect  depreciation  and  amortization  rates  and  have  an  adverse  effect  on  our
financial performance.

We  may  not  be  able  to  replenish  our  reserves,  which  could  adversely  affect  our  mining
prospects.

We engage in mineral exploration, which is highly uncertain in nature, involves many risks and frequently
is non-productive. Our exploration programs, which involve significant expenditures, may fail to result in

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the  expansion  or  replacement  of  reserves  depleted  by  current  production.  If  we  do  not  develop  new
reserves, we will not be able to sustain our current level of production beyond the remaining lives of our
existing mines.

The feasibility of new mineral projects may change over time.

Once mineral deposits are discovered, it can take a number of years from the initial phases of drilling until
production is possible, during which the economic feasibility of production may change. Substantial time
and expenditures are required to:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

establish mineral reserves through drilling;

determine appropriate mining and metallurgical processes for optimizing the recovery of
metal contained in ore;

obtain environmental and other licenses;

construct mining, processing facilities and infrastructure required for greenfield properties;
and

obtain the ore or extract the minerals from the ore.

If a project proves not to be economically feasible by the time we are able to exploit it, we may incur
substantial losses and be obliged to take write-downs. In addition, potential changes or complications
involving metallurgical and other technological processes arising during the life of a project may result in
delays and cost overruns that may render the project not economically feasible.

We face rising extraction costs and investment requirements over time as reserves deplete.

Reserves  are  gradually  depleted  in  the  ordinary  course  of  a  given  open  pit  or  underground  mining
operation. As mining progresses, distances to the primary crusher and to waste deposits become longer,
pits become steeper, mines may move from being open pit to underground, and underground operations
become  deeper.  In  addition,  for  some  types  of  reserves,  mineralization  grade  decreases  and  hardness
increases at greater depths. As a result, over time, we usually experience rising unit extraction costs with
respect  to  each  mine,  or  we  may  need  to  make  additional  investments,  including  adaptation  or
construction of processing plants and expansion or construction of tailings dams. Several of our mines
have been operating for long periods, and we will likely experience rising extraction costs per unit in the
future at these operations in particular.

RISKS RELATING TO OUR CORPORATE STRUCTURE

The shareholders that are party to our shareholders’ agreement have significant power over
Vale.

On  August  14,  2017,  Litel  Participa¸c ˜oes  S.A.  (‘‘Litel’’),  Bradespar  S.A.  (‘‘Bradespar’’),  Mitsui  &  Co.,  Ltd.
(‘‘Mitsui’’) and BNDES Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. (‘‘BNDESPAR’’) entered into a shareholders’ agreement pursuant
to  which  they  undertake  to  vote  jointly  on  certain  key  matters  (the  ‘‘Shareholders’  Agreement’’).  The
Shareholders’ Agreement is expected to expire on November 9, 2020. See Share ownership and trading—
Major shareholders. On December 31, 2017, Litel, Bradespar, Mitsui and BNDESPAR together held 40.29%
of our total capital stock. As long as no other shareholder or group of shareholders owns more shares than

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the  parties  to  the  Shareholders’  Agreement,  these  major  shareholders  may  elect  a  majority  of  the
members  of  the  board  of  directors  and  control  the  outcome  of  certain  actions  requiring  shareholder
approval.

The Brazilian Government has certain veto rights.

The Brazilian government owns 12 golden shares of Vale, granting it limited veto power over certain
company  actions,  such  as  changes  to  our  name,  the  location  of  our  headquarters  and  our  corporate
purpose as it relates to mining activities. For a detailed description of the Brazilian government’s veto
powers,  see  Additional  information—Memorandum  and  articles  of  association—Common  shares  and
golden shares.

Our  governance  and  compliance  processes  may  fail  to  prevent  regulatory  penalties  and
reputational harm.

We operate in a global environment, and our activities extend over multiple jurisdictions and complex
regulatory  frameworks,  with  increasing  enforcement  activities  worldwide.  Our  governance  and
compliance  processes,  which  include  the  review  of  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  may  not
timely  identify  or  prevent  future  breaches  of  legal,  accounting  or  governance  standards.  We  may  be
subject  to  breaches  of  our  code  of  ethics  and  conduct,  anti-corruption  policies  and  business  conduct
protocols and to instances of fraudulent behavior, corrupt practices and dishonesty by our employees,
contractors or other agents. Our failure to comply with applicable laws and other standards could subject
us to investigations by authorities, litigation, fines, loss of operating licenses, disgorgement of profits,
involuntary dissolution and reputational harm.

It could be difficult for investors to enforce any judgment obtained outside Brazil against us or
any of our associates.

Our investors may be located in jurisdictions outside Brazil and could seek to bring actions against us or
our directors or officers in the courts of their home jurisdictions. We are a Brazilian company, and the
majority of our officers and directors are residents of Brazil. The vast majority of our assets and the assets
of our officers and directors are likely to be located in jurisdictions other than the home jurisdictions of
our  foreign  investors.  It  might  not  be  possible  for  investors  outside  Brazil  to  effect  service  of  process
within  their  home  jurisdictions  on  us  or  on  our  officers  or  directors  who  reside  outside  their  home
jurisdictions. In addition, a final conclusive foreign judgment will be enforceable in the courts of Brazil
without a re-examination of the merits only if previously confirmed by the Brazilian Superior Court of
Justice (STJ—Superior Tribunal de Justi¸ca), and confirmation will only be granted if the foreign judgment:
(a) fulfills all formalities required for its enforceability under the laws of the country where it was issued;
(b) was issued by a competent court after due service of process on the defendant, as required under
applicable law; (c) is not subject to appeal; (d) does not conflict with a final and unappealable decision
issued by a Brazilian court; (e) was authenticated by a Brazilian consulate in the country in which it was
issued  or  is  duly  apostilled  in  accordance  with  the  Convention  for  Abolishing  the  Requirement  of
Legalization for Foreign Public Documents and is accompanied by a sworn translation into Portuguese,
unless this procedure was exempted by an international treaty entered into by Brazil; (f) it does not cover
matters subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Brazilian courts; and (g) is not contrary to Brazilian
national  sovereignty,  public  policy  or  good  morals.  Therefore,  investors  might  not  be  able  to  recover
against us or our directors and officers on judgments of the courts of their home jurisdictions predicated
upon the laws of such jurisdictions.

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RISKS RELATING TO OUR DEPOSITARY SHARES

If ADR holders exchange ADSs for the underlying shares, they risk losing the ability to remit
foreign currency abroad.

The custodian for the shares underlying our ADSs maintains a registration with the Central Bank of Brazil
permitting qualifying institutional foreign investors to buy and sell securities on the B3 and entitling the
custodian to remit U.S. dollars outside Brazil for payments of dividends and other distributions relating to
the  shares  underlying  our  ADSs  or  upon  the  disposition  of  the  underlying  shares.  If  an  ADR  holder
exchanges its ADSs for the underlying shares, it will be entitled to rely on the custodian’s registration for
only five business days from the date of exchange. Thereafter, an ADR holder may not be able to obtain
and remit foreign currency abroad upon the disposition of, or distributions relating to, the underlying
shares unless it obtains its own registration under applicable regulation. See Additional information—
Exchange controls and other limitations affecting security holders. If an ADR holder attempts to obtain its
own registration, it may incur expenses or suffer delays in the application process, which could delay the
receipt of dividends or other distributions relating to the underlying shares or the return of capital in a
timely manner.

The custodian’s registration or any registration obtained could be affected by future legislative changes,
and  additional  restrictions  applicable  to  ADR  holders,  the  disposition  of  the  underlying  shares  or  the
repatriation of the proceeds from disposition could be imposed in the future.

ADR holders may not have all the rights of our shareholders, and may be unable to exercise
preemptive rights relating to the shares underlying their ADSs.

ADR holders may not have the same rights that are attributed to our shareholders by Brazilian law or our
bylaws,  and  the  rights  of  ADR  holders  may  be  subject  to  certain  limitations  provided  in  the  deposit
agreement or by the securities intermediaries through which ADR holders hold their securities. Also, the
ability of ADR holders to exercise preemptive rights is not assured, particularly if the applicable law in the
holder’s  jurisdiction  (for  example,  the  Securities  Act  in  the  United  States)  requires  that  either  a
registration statement be effective or an exemption from registration be available with respect to those
rights, as is in the case in the United States. We are not obligated to extend the offer of preemptive rights
to holders of ADRs, to file a registration statement in the United States, or to make any other similar filing
in any other jurisdiction, relating to preemptive rights or to undertake steps that may be needed to make
exemptions from registration available, and we cannot assure holders that we will file any registration
statement or take such steps.

ADR holders may encounter difficulties in the exercise of voting rights.

ADR holders do not have the rights of shareholders. They have only the contractual rights set forth for
their  benefit  under  the  deposit  agreements.  ADR  holders  are  not  permitted  to  attend  shareholders’
meetings, and they may only vote by providing instructions to the depositary. In practice, the ability of a
holder  of  ADRs  to  instruct  the  depositary  as  to  voting  will  depend  on  the  timing  and  procedures  for
providing instructions to the depositary either directly or through the holder’s custodian and clearing
system.  With  respect  to  ADSs  for  which  instructions  are  not  received,  the  depositary  may,  subject  to
certain limitations, grant a proxy to a person designated by us.

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The legal protections for holders of our securities differ from one jurisdiction to another and
may be inconsistent, unfamiliar or less effective than investors anticipate.

We are a global company with securities traded in several different markets and investors located in many
different countries. The legal regime for the protection of investors varies around the world, sometimes in
important  ways,  and  investors  in  our  securities  should  recognize  that  the  protections  and  remedies
available to them may be different from those to which they are accustomed in their home markets. We
are  subject  to  securities  legislation  in  several  countries,  which  have  different  rules,  supervision  and
enforcement practices. The only corporate law applicable to our parent company is the law of Brazil, with
its  specific  substantive  rules  and  judicial  procedures.  We  are  subject  to  corporate  governance  rules  in
several jurisdictions where our securities are listed, but as a foreign private issuer, we are not required to
follow many of the corporate governance rules that apply to U.S. domestic issuers with securities listed on
the New York Stock Exchange, and we are not subject to the U.S. proxy rules.

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II.

INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

LINES OF BUSINESS

Our principal lines of business consist of mining and related logistics. This section presents information
about operations, production, sales and competition and is organized as follows.

1. Ferrous minerals

3. Coal

3.1 Operations
3.2 Production
3.3 Customers and sales
3.4 Competition

4.

Infrastructure

4.1 Logistics

4.1.1 Railroads
4.1.2 Ports and maritime
terminals
4.1.3 Shipping

4.2 Energy

5. Other investments

1.1 Iron ore and iron ore pellets
1.1.1 Iron ore operations
1.1.2 Iron ore production
1.1.3 Iron ore pellets operations
1.1.4 Iron ore pellets production
1.1.5 Customers, sales and marketing
1.1.6 Competition

1.2 Manganese ore and ferroalloys

1.2.1 Manganese ore operations and production
1.2.2 Ferroalloys operations and production
1.2.3 Manganese ore and ferroalloys: sales and
competition

2. Base metals

2.1 Nickel

2.1.1 Operations
2.1.2 Production
2.1.3 Customers and sales
2.1.4 Competition

2.2 Copper

2.2.1 Operations
2.2.2 Production
2.2.3 Customers and sales
2.2.4 Competition

2.3 PGMs and other precious metals
2.4 Cobalt

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1.

Ferrous minerals

Our ferrous minerals business includes iron ore mining, iron ore pellet production, manganese ore mining and ferroalloy production. Each of these
activities is described below.

Lines of Business

1.1

Iron ore and iron ore pellets

1.1.1

Iron ore operations

We  conduct  our  iron  ore  business  in  Brazil  primarily  at  the  parent-company  level,  and  through  our  subsidiaries  Minera¸c ˜ao  Corumbaense
Reunida S.A. (‘‘MCR’’) and Minera¸c ˜oes Brasileiras Reunidas S.A.—MBR (‘‘MBR’’). Our mines, all of which are open pit, and their related operations
are mainly concentrated in three systems: the Southeastern, Southern and Northern Systems, each with its own transportation capabilities. We
also conduct mining operations in the Midwestern System and we have a 50% stake in Samarco. Samarco’s operations have been suspended
following the failure of one of its tailings dams located in Minas Gerais in November 2015 (see Business overview—Failure of Samarco’s tailings
dam  in  Minas  Gerais).  We  conduct  each  of  our  iron  ore  operations  in  Brazil  under  concessions  from  the  federal  government  granted  for  an
indefinite period, subject to the life of the mines.

Company/
Mining System

Location

Description/History

Mineralization

Operations

Power source

Access/Transportation

Vale
Northern System . . . . . . . Caraj ´as,
state of
Par ´a

3
2
3
2

Southeastern System . .

Iron
Quadrangle,
state of
Minas
Gerais

average).

Open-pit mining operations. In
Serra Norte, one of the major

Divided into Serra Norte, Serra Sul
High-grade hematite
and Serra Leste (Northern, Southern ore type (iron grade
and Eastern ranges). Since 1984, we of more than 65% on plants applies the natural moisture
beneficiation process, consisting of
have been conducting mining
crushing and screening, and the
activities in the northern range,
other applies both the natural
which is divided into three main
moisture and the wet beneficiation purchase
mining areas (N4W, N4E and N5)
process in distinct lines. The wet
and two major beneficiation plants.
beneficiation process consists simply
In 2014, we started a new mine and
of sizing operations, including
beneficiation plant in Serra Leste.
screening, hydrocycloning, crushing
Our operations in Serra Sul, where
and filtration. Output from this site
our S11D project is located, started
consists of sinter feed, pellet feed
in 2016.
and lump ore. Serra Leste and Serra
Sul natural moisture beneficiation
process consists of crushing and
screening. Serra Sul produces only
sinter feed and Serra Leste
produces lump and sinter feed.

agreements.

Supplied through
the national
electricity grid.
Produced directly Madeira maritime
by Vale or acquired terminal in the
through power

Caraj ´as railroad (EFC)
transports the iron
ore to the Ponta da

Brazilian state of
Maranh ˜ao. Serra Leste
iron ore is transported
by trucks from the
mine site to EFC
railroad. The Serra Sul
ore is shipped via the
new 101-kilometers
long railroad branch.

Three mining complexes: Itabira
(two mines, with three major
beneficiation plants), Minas Centrais ore relative to
(two mines, with two major
beneficiation plants and one
secondary plant) and Mariana
(three mines, with two major
beneficiation plants).

Ore reserves with
high ratios of itabirite generally process the run-of-mine

Open-pit mining operations. We

by means of standard crushing,
classification and concentration
steps, producing sinter feed, lump

hematite ore type.
Itabirite ore type has
iron grade of 35-60%. ore and pellet feed in the
Part of the ore is
concentrated to
achieve shipping
grade and part is
shipped and blended
in Asia with the
high-grade ore from
our Northern System.

beneficiation plants located at the
mining complexes.

EFVM railroad
connects these mines
to the Tubar ˜ao port.

Supplied through
the national
electricity grid.
Produced directly
by Vale or acquired
through power
purchase
agreements.

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Company/
Mining System

Southern System . . . . . . .

Location

Description/History

Mineralization

Operations

Power source

Access/Transportation

Lines of Business

Iron
Three major mining complexes:
Quadrangle, Minas Itabirito (four mines and
state of
Minas
Gerais

Open-pit mining operations. We

Ore reserves with
high ratios of itabirite generally process the run-of-mine
ore type relative to
hematite ore type.
Itabirite ore has iron

by means of standard crushing,
classification and concentration
steps, producing sinter feed, lump

three major beneficiation plants);
Vargem Grande (three mines and
two major beneficiation plants);
and Paraopeba (five mines and two grade of 35-60%. Part ore and pellet feed in the
of the ore is
major beneficiation plants).
concentrated to
achieve shipping
grade and part is
shipped and blended
in Asia with the
high-grade ore from
our Northern System.
Hematite ore type,
which generates lump beneficiation process for the
ore predominantly.
run-of-mine consists of standard
Iron grade of 62% on crushing and classification steps,
average.

Two mines and two plants located
in the city of Corumb ´a.

beneficiation plants located at the
mining complexes.

Open-pit mining operations. The

producing lump ore and sinter
feed.

iron ore products
from the mines to our
Gua´ıba Island and

Supplied through MRS transports our
the national
electricity grid.
Produced directly
by Vale or acquired Itagua´ı maritime
terminals in the
through power
Brazilian state of Rio
purchase
de Janeiro. EFVM
agreements.
railroad connects
certain mines to the
Tubar ˜ao port.

Midwestern System . . . . State of

Mato
Grosso do
Sul

3
3
3
3

Samarco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Integrated system comprised of two Itabirite ore type.

Iron
Quadrangle, mines, three beneficiation plants,
three pipelines, four pellet plants
state of
and a port. The mines and the
Minas
beneficiation plants are located in
Gerais
the state of Minas Gerais and the
pellet plants and port are located in
the state of Esp´ırito Santo. From
Minas Gerais to Esp´ırito Santo state
production flows through the three
pipelines which extend for
approximately 400 Km.

Open-pit mining operations. The
three beneficiation plants, located
at the site, process the run-of-mine
by means of standard crushing,
milling and concentration steps,
producing pellet feed and sinter
feed. Samarco’s mining operations
have been suspended following the by Samarco.
failure of one of its tailings dams
located in Minas Gerais in
November 2015 (see Business
overview—Failure of Samarco’s
tailings dam in Minas Gerais).

Supplied through
the national
electricity grid.
Acquired from
regional utility
companies or
acquired through
power purchase
agreements.
Supplied through
the national
electricity grid.
Acquired from
regional utility
companies or
produced directly

Transported through
barges traveling along
the Paraguay river to
ports in Argentina,
and on to European
and Asian markets
from there, or
delivered to customers
at Corumb ´a.
Samarco’s mines
supply Samarco’s
pellet plants using
three pipelines
extending
approximately 400
kilometers. These
pipelines transport
the iron ore from the
beneficiation plants to
the pelletizing plants.
From the pelletizing
plants to the Ubu
port in the Brazilian
state of Esp´ırito
Santo, pellets are
transported by
conveyor belts of
approximately one
kilometer.

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1.1.2

Iron ore production

The following table sets forth information about our iron ore production.

Mine/Plant

Type

2015

2016

2017

(million metric tons)

Production for the year ended
December 31(2),

2017 process
recovery(3)

(%)

Southeastern System

Itabira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minas Centrais(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mariana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Open pit
Open pit

Total Southeastern System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Southern System

Minas Itabirito . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vargem Grande . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Paraopeba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Open pit
Open pit

Total Southern System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Northern System

Serra Norte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Serra Leste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Serra Sul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Open pit
Open pit

Total Northern System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Midwestern System

Corumb ´a. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Urucum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Open pit

Total Midwestern System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total Vale Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Samarco(2)(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

35.6
41.3
36.1

113.0

41.4
29.3
28.1

98.8

127.6
2.0
–

129.6

2.8
1.7

4.5

345.9

12.7

358.6

33.4
40.9
28.4

102.7

40.1
29.2
26.4

95.7

143.6
4.2
0.4

148.1

1.9
0.4

2.3

348.8

0.0

348.8

37.8
37.6
33.1

108.6

36.8
23.3
26.3

86.4

142.7
4.3
22.2

169.2

2.4
0.0

2.4

366.5

0.0

366.5

50.9
67.6
85.4

82.1
63.2
92.9

96.1
99.2
100.0

67.9
0.0

(1)
(2)

(3)

Production figures include third-party ore purchases.
For financial reporting purposes, Samarco is accounted for under the equity method. We have included production numbers from
Samarco,  adjusted  to  reflect  our  50%  equity  interest,  as  the  level  of  production  and  operating  performance  from  entities
accounted for under the equity method impacts our Adjusted EBITDA. Our use of Adjusted EBITDA is explained in—Results of
operations—Results  of  operations  by  segment—Adjusted  EBITDA  by  segment.  Samarco  operations  are  currently  suspended
following the Samarco dam failure as explained in—Business overview—Failure of Samarco’s tailings dam in Minas Gerais.
Process recovery figures do not include third-party ore purchases.

1.1.3

Iron ore pellet operations

We produce iron ore pellets in Brazil and Oman, directly and through joint ventures, as set forth in the
table below. We also have a 25% interest in two iron ore pelletizing plants in China, Zhuhai Yueyufeng
Iron and Steel Co., Ltd (‘‘Zhuhai YPM’’) and Anyang Iron & Steel Co., Ltd (‘‘Anyang’’). Our total estimated
nominal  capacity  is  64.7  Mtpy,  including  the  full  capacity  of  our  pelletizing  plants  in  Oman,  but  not
including  our  joint  ventures  Samarco,  Zhuhai  YPM  and  Anyang.  We  supply  all  of  the  iron  ore
requirements of our wholly owned pellet plants and part of the iron ore requirements for Samarco and
Zhuhai YPM. In 2017, we sold 0.5 million metric tons of pellet feed to Zhuhai YPM. We suspended our sales
of run-of-mine to Samarco following the failure of Samarco’s tailings dam in November 2015.

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Company/Plant

Description/History

Nominal capacity
(Mtpy)

Power source

Other information

Lines of Business

Vale’s equity
interest (%)

Partners

Brazil:

Vale
Tubar ˜ao (state of
Esp´ırito Santo) . . . . . . . . I, II and VIII) and five leased plants

Three wholly owned pellet plants (Tubar ˜ao

36.7 (1)

(Itabrasco, Hispanobras, Kobrasco and two
Nibrasco plants). These plants receive iron
ore primarily from our Southeastern System
mines and use our logistics infrastructure for
distribution.

plant started up in January 2018,

Supplied through the Operations at the Tubar ˜ao II pellet
national electricity
grid. Produced directly Tubar ˜ao I pellet plant is expected to
restart operations in the first half of
by Vale or acquired
2018 in response to market
through power
conditions. Operations at these
purchase agreements.
plants have been suspended since
2012.

100.0

–

3
3
5
5

F ´abrica (state of
Minas Gerais) . . . . . . . . . ore from the Minas Itabirito mining

Part of the Southern System. Receives iron

complex, more specifically from Jo ˜ao Pereira
and Segredo mines. Production is mostly
transported by MRS and EFVM.

Vargem Grande
(state of Minas
Gerais) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grande mining complexes, more specifically

Part of the Southern System. Receives iron
ore from the Minas Itabirito and Vargem

from Sapecado, Galinheiro, Capit ˜ao do
Mato and Tamandu ´a mines. Production is
mostly transported by MRS.

4.5

7.0

–

–

Supplied through the
national electricity
grid. Produced directly
by Vale or acquired
through power
purchase agreements.

Supplied through the
national electricity
grid. Produced directly
by Vale or acquired
through power
purchase agreements.

S ˜ao Lu´ıs (state of
Part of the Northern System. Receives iron
Maranh ˜ao) . . . . . . . . . . . . ore from the Caraj ´as mines. Production is

7.5

–

shipped to customers through our Ponta da
Madeira maritime terminal.

Operation at the S ˜ao Lu´ıs plant are
expected to restart operations in the
second half of 2018 in response to
market conditions. Operations at this
plant have been suspended since
2012.

100.0

100.0

100.0

–

–

–

Samarco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Four pellet plants, with aggregate nominal
capacity of 30.5 Mtpy, located in the Ponta
Ubu unit, in Anchieta, state of Esp´ırito
Santo.

30.5 (2)

Supplied through the
national electricity
grid. Acquired from
regional utility
companies or
produced directly by
Samarco.

In January 2016, Samarco suspended 50.0
its pelletizing operations as
pelletizing feed became unavailable
as a result of the suspension of its
mining operations in November
2015.

BHP Billiton
Brasil Ltda.

12APR201813380467

Company/Plant

Description/History

Nominal capacity
(Mtpy)

Power source

Other information

Vale’s equity
interest (%)

Partners

Oman:

3
3
6
6

Vale’s industrial complex. Two pellet plants
Vale Oman
Pelletizing
with a total nominal capacity of 9.0 Mtpy.
Company LLC . . . . . . . . . The pelletizing plants are integrated with
our distribution center that has a nominal
capacity of 40.0 Mtpy.

9.0

Supplied through the Oman plants are supplied by iron ore 70.0
national electricity
grid.

from the Iron Quadrangle state of
Minas Gerais through the Tubar ˜ao
Port (80%) and by iron ore from
Caraj ´as through the Ponta de
Madeira maritime terminal (20%).

Oman Oil
Company S.A.O.C.

(1) Our environmental operating licenses for the Tubar ˜ao pellet plants provide for a capacity of 36.2 Mtpy.
(2)

The actual capacity will be revised based on the conditions under which Samarco resumes operations.

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1.1.4

Iron ore pellets production

The following table sets forth information about our main iron ore pellet production.

Company

Production for the year ended December 31,

2015

2016

2017

(million metric tons)

Vale(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Samarco(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

46.2
12.3

58.5

46.2
0.0

46.2

50.3
0.0

50.3

(1)

(2)

Figure indicates actual production, including full production from our pellet plants in Oman and the five pellet plants we lease in
Brazil. The operating leases for the Itabrasco, Kobrasco and Hispanobras pellet plants expire in 2018, and the operating leases for
the two Nibrasco pellet plants expire in 2019.
For financial reporting purposes, Samarco is accounted for under the equity method. We have included production numbers from
Samarco,  adjusted  to  reflect  our  50%  equity  interest,  as  the  level  of  production  and  operating  performance  from  entities
accounted for under the equity method impacts our Adjusted EBITDA. Our use of Adjusted EBITDA is explained in—Results of
operations—Results  of  operations  by  segment—Adjusted  EBITDA  by  segment.  Samarco  operations  are  currently  suspended
following the Samarco dam failure as explained in—Business overview—Failure of Samarco’s tailings dam in Minas Gerais.

1.1.5

Customers, sales and marketing

We supply all of our iron ore and iron ore pellets to the steel industry. Prevailing and expected levels of
demand for steel products affect demand for our iron ore and iron ore pellets. Demand for steel products
is  influenced  by  many  factors,  such  as  global  manufacturing  production,  civil  construction  and
infrastructure spending. For further information about demand and prices, see Operating and financial
review and prospects—Major factors affecting prices.

In 2017, China accounted for 57% of our iron ore and iron ore pellet shipments, and Asia as a whole
accounted for 71%. Europe accounted for 13%, followed by Brazil with 9%. Our ten largest customers
collectively purchased 134 million metric tons of iron ore and iron ore pellets from us, representing 39%
of our 2017 iron ore and iron ore pellet sales volumes and 39% of our total iron ore and iron ore pellet
revenues. In 2017, no individual customer accounted for more than 7% of our iron ore and iron ore pellet
shipments.

Of our total 2017 pellet production, 59% was blast furnace pellets and 41% was direct reduction pellets.
Blast furnace and direct reduction are different technologies employed by steel mills to produce steels,
each using different types of pellets. In 2017, the Asian market (mainly Japan), the European market and
the Brazilian market were the primary markets for our blast furnace pellets, while the Middle East and
North America were the primary markets for our direct reduction pellets.

We invest in customer service in order to improve our competitiveness. We work with our customers to
understand their objectives and to provide them with iron ore solutions to meet specific customer needs.
Using  our  expertise  in  mining,  agglomeration  and  iron-making  processes,  we  search  for  technical
solutions  that  will  balance  the  best  use  of  our  world-class  mining  assets  and  the  satisfaction  of  our
customers. We believe that our ability to provide customers with a total iron ore solution and the quality
of our products are both very important advantages helping us improve our competitiveness in relation to
competitors  that  may  be  more  conveniently  located  geographically.  In  addition  to  offering  technical
assistance to our customers, we have sales offices in St. Prex (Switzerland), Tokyo (Japan), Seoul (South
Korea), Singapore, Dubai (UAE) and Shanghai (China), which support global sales by Vale International,
and an office in Brazil, which supports sales to South America. These offices also allow us to stay in close

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contact with our customers, monitor their requirements and our contract performance, and ensure that
our customers receive timely deliveries.

We sell iron ore and iron ore pellets under different arrangements, including long-term contracts with
customers and on a spot basis through tenders and trading platforms. Our pricing is generally linked to
market price indexes and uses a variety of mechanisms, including current spot prices and average prices
over specified periods. In cases where the products are priced before the final price is determinable at
delivery, we recognize the sale based on a provisional price with a subsequent adjustment reflecting the
final price.

In  2017,  we  hedged  part  of  our  total  exposure  to  bunker  oil  prices  relating  to  our  owned  fleet  and
long-term contracts of affreightment connected to our FOB and CFR international and domestic sales. The
2017 hedge program was settled in 2017.

1.1.6

Competition

The  global  iron  ore  and  iron  ore  pellet  markets  are  highly  competitive.  The  main  factors  affecting
competition  are  price,  quality  and  range  of  products  offered,  reliability,  operating  costs  and  shipping
costs.

(cid:127)

Asia  -  Our  main  competitors  in  the  Asian  market  are  located  in  Australia  and  include
subsidiaries and affiliates of BHP, Rio Tinto Ltd (‘‘Rio Tinto’’) and Fortescue Metals Group Ltd.
We  are  competitive  in  the  Asian  market  for  two  main  reasons.  First,  steel  companies
generally  seek  to  obtain  the  types  (or  blends)  of  iron  ore  and  iron  ore  pellets  that  can
produce the intended final product in the most economic and efficient manner. Our iron ore
has low impurity levels and other properties that generally lead to lower processing costs.
For example, in addition to its high-grade, the alumina content of our iron ore is very low
compared to Australian ores, reducing consumption of coke and increasing productivity in
blast furnaces, which is particularly important during periods of high demand. When market
demand is strong, our quality differential generally becomes more valuable to customers.
Second, steel companies often develop sales relationships based on a reliable supply of a
specific  mix  of  iron  ore  and  iron  ore  pellets.  Our  ownership  and  operation  of  logistics
facilities  in  the  Northern  and  Southeastern  Systems  help  us  ensure  that  our  products  are
delivered  on  time  and  at  a  relatively  low  cost.  We  rely  on  long-term  contracts  of
affreightment  to  enhance  our  ability  to  offer  our  products  in  the  Asian  market  at
competitive  prices  on  a  CFR  basis,  despite  higher  transportation  costs  compared  to
Australian  producers.  To  support  our  commercial  strategy  for  our  iron  ore  business,  we
operate two distribution centers, one in Malaysia and one in Oman and we have long-term
agreements with twelve ports in China, which also serve as distribution centers. In 2015, we
launched  the  Brazilian  blend  fines  (BRBF),  a  product  resulting  from  blending  fines  from
Caraj ´as, which contain a higher concentration of iron and a lower concentration of silica in
the  ore,  with  fines  from  the  Southern  and  Southeastern  Systems,  which  contain  a  lower
concentration of iron in the ore. The resulting blend offers strong performance in any kind
of  sintering  operation.  It  is  blended  and  sold  in  our  Teluk  Rubiah  Maritime  Terminal  in
Malaysia and in twelve distribution centers in China, which reduces the time to reach Asian
markets and increases our distribution capillarity by using smaller vessels.

(cid:127)

Europe - Our main competitors in the European market are Luossavaara Kiirunavaara AB
(‘‘LKAB’’), ArcelorMittal Mines Canada Inc., Iron Ore Company of Canada, a subsidiary of Rio
Tinto.,  Kumba  Iron  Ore  Limited  and  Soci ´et ´e  Nationale  Industrielle  et  Mini ´ere.  We  are

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competitive in the European market for the same reasons as in Asia, but also due to the
proximity of our port facilities to European customers.

(cid:127)

Brazil - The Brazilian iron ore market is also competitive, and includes several small iron ore
producers. Some steel companies, including Gerdau S.A. (‘‘Gerdau’’), Companhia Sider ´urgica
Nacional (‘‘CSN’’), Vallourec Tubos do Brasil S.A., Usiminas and Arcelor Mittal, also have iron
ore  mining  operations.  Although  pricing  is  relevant,  quality  and  reliability  are  important
competitive  factors  as  well.  We  believe  that  our  integrated  transportation  systems,
high-quality ore and technical services make us a strong competitor in the Brazilian market.

With  respect  to  pellets,  our  major  competitors  are  LKAB,  Iron  Ore  Company  of  Canada,  Ferrexpo  Plc,
Arcelor Mittal Mines Canada (former Quebec Cartier Mining Co.) and Bahrain Steel (former Gulf Industrial
Investment Co.).

1.2

Manganese ore and ferroalloys

1.2.1 Manganese ore operations and production

We  conduct  our  manganese  mining  operations  in  Brazil  through  Vale  S.A.  and  our  wholly  owned
subsidiaries  Vale  Mangan ˆes  S.A.  (‘‘Vale  Mangan ˆes’’)  and  MCR.  Our  mining  operations  are  carried  out
under  concessions  from  the  federal  government  granted  for  an  indefinite  period.  Our  mines  produce
metallurgical ore, used primarily for the production of manganese ferroalloys, a raw material used to
produce carbon and stainless steel.

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12APR201813380467

Lines of Business

Mining
complex

Company

Location

Description/History Mineralization

Operations

Power source

Azul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vale S.A.

State of Par ´a Open-pit mining

operations and
on-site
beneficiation
plant.

High- and
medium-grade
oxide-ores
(24-46%
manganese
grade).

Crushing,
scrubbing
and
classification
steps,
producing
lumps and
fines.

Supplied
through the
national
electricity
grid.
Produced
directly by
Vale or
acquired
through
power
purchase
agreements.

Morro da Mina . . . Vale

Mangan ˆes

State of
Minas Gerais

Open-pit mining
operations and
concentration
plant.

Crushing,
screening and through the
dense-heavy

Supplied

Medium- and
low-grade
silicocarbonate
ores (an average medium
content of 30%
manganese
grade).

national
electricity
grid.
Acquired
from regional
utility
companies.

separation
DMS / HMS
process
producing
lumps to the
Barbacena
and Ouro
Preto
ferroalloy
plants.

Access/
Transportation

Manganese ore is
transported by
truck and EFC
railroad to the
Ponta da Madeira
maritime terminal.

Manganese ore is
transported by
truck to the
Barbacena and
Ouro Preto
ferroalloy plants.

Urucum . . . . . . . . . . . MCR

High-and

State of Mato Underground
Grosso do Sul mining operations medium-grade
oxide ores (an
average content
of 46%
manganese
grade).

and on-site
beneficiation
plant.

Crushing,
scrubbing
and
classification
steps,
producing
lumps and
fines.

Manganese ore is
transported by
barge traveling
along the
Paraguay and
Paran ´a rivers to
transhippers at
the Nueva Palmira

Supplied
through the
national
electricity
grid.
Acquired
from regional
utility
companies or port in Uruguay.
acquired
through
power
purchase
agreements.

The  following  table  sets  forth  information  about  our  manganese  ore  production,  obtained  after
beneficiation process, and mass recovery.

Mine

Type

2015

2016

2017

Production for the year ended December 31,

Azul. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Morro da Mina(1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Urucum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Open pit
Underground

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(million metric tons)

1.7
–
0.7

2.4

1.7
0.0
0.7

2.4

1.4
0.1
0.7

2.2

2017
process
recovery

(%)
41.5
60.0
82.7

(1) We suspended operations at Morro da Mina in 2015 due to market conditions. We resumed operations in October 2016 to provide

manganese ore to the Barbacena ferroalloy plant.

1.2.2 Manganese ferroalloys operations and production

We conduct our manganese ferroalloys business through our wholly owned subsidiary Vale Mangan ˆes.
The production of manganese ferroalloys consumes significant amounts of electricity, which is provided
through power purchase agreements.

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We  produce  several  types  of  manganese  ferroalloys,  such  as  high  carbon  and  medium  carbon  ferro-
manganese and ferro-silicon manganese.

Plant

Location

Description/History

Nominal capacity

Power source

Lines of Business

Minas Gerais Plants . . . .

Cities of Barbacena
and Ouro Preto

Bahia Plant . . . . . . . . . . . . .

City of Sim ˜oes Filho

Barbacena has six
furnaces, two of which
are refining furnaces
and a briquetting plant.
Ouro Preto has three
furnaces, two of which
are currently not
operating due to market
conditions.

Four furnaces, two
converters and a
sintering plant.

Supplied through the
national electricity
grid. Acquired from
Furnas—Centrais
El ´etricas S.A. through
power purchase
agreements.

Supplied through the
national electricity
grid. Acquired from
Companhia
Hidrel ´etrica do S ˜ao
Francisco (CHESF) or
through power
purchase agreements.

Barbacena: 66,000
tons per year (54,000
tons per year of ferro-
silicon manganese and
12,000 tons per year
of ferro-manganese
medium carbon). Ouro
Preto: 64,000 tons per
year of ferro-silicon
manganese.

135,000 tons per year
(42,000 tons per year
of ferro-silicon
manganese and 93,000
tons per year of high
carbon ferro-
manganese). The plant
has a capacity to
refine until 40,000
tons per year of ferro-
manganese high
carbon to produce
ferro-manganese
medium carbon alloy,
according to market
demand.

The following table sets forth information about our manganese ferroalloys production.

Plant

Barbacena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ouro Preto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sim ˜oes Filho . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Production for the year ended December 31(1),

2015

2016

2017

(thousand metric tons)

6
1
92

99

48
–
77

124

58
–
88

146

(1)

Production figures reflect hot metal, which is further processed by a crushing and screening facility. Average mass recovery in this
process is 85%.

1.2.3 Manganese ore and ferroalloys: sales and competition

The markets for manganese ore and ferroalloys are highly competitive. Competition in the manganese
ore market takes place in two segments. High- and medium-grade manganese ore competes on a global
seaborne  basis,  while  low-grade  ore  competes  on  a  regional  basis.  For  some  manganese  ferroalloys,
especially  ferromanganese,  higher-grade  manganese  ores  are  required  to  achieve  competitive  quality
and  cost,  while  medium-  to  lower-grade  ores  may  be  used  in  silicomanganese  production.  The  main
suppliers of high-grade ores are located in South Africa, Gabon, Australia and Brazil. The main producers
of low-grade ores are located in the Ukraine, China, South Africa, Ghana, Kazakhstan, India and Mexico.

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Lines of Business

We compete in the seaborne market with both high- and medium-grade ores from the Azul and Urucum
mines, where we benefit from extensive synergies with our iron ore operations, from mine to rail to port
to vessel operations. Our main competitors in this segment are South32 (Australia and South Africa) and
Eramet (Gabon). Our lower-grade ores, especially those from Morro da Mina, are consumed internally in
our ferroalloy smelters.

The  manganese  ferroalloy  market  is  characterized  by  a  large  number  of  participants  who  compete
primarily  on  the  basis  of  price.  Our  competitors  are  located  principally  in  countries  that  produce
manganese  ore  or  carbon  steel.  Potential  entrants  and  substitutes  come  from  silicon  or  chrome
ferroalloys,  which  can  occasionally  shift  their  furnaces  to  manganese  alloys,  and  from  electrolytic
manganese producers. Competitors may be either integrated smelters like us, who feed manganese ore
from their own mines, or non-integrated smelters. The principal competitive factors in this market are the
costs of manganese ore, electricity, logistics and reductants such as coke, coal and charcoal. We compete
with both stand-alone and integrated producers.

Focusing  mainly  in  the  Brazilian,  South  and  North  American  steelmaking  customers,  our  ferroalloys
operations  also  benefit  from  synergies  with  our  iron  ore  sales,  marketing,  procurement  and  logistics
activities. We buy our energy and coke supplies at reasonable market prices both though medium- and
long-term contracts. Competitors in the Brazilian market are about a dozen smelters with capacities from
five to 90 thousand tons per year, most of which are not integrated and some of which are customers of
our manganese ores. We have a distinctive advantage in comparison to them in producing ferroalloys
with higher manganese content.

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2.

2.1

BASE METALS

Nickel

2.1.1 Operations

We conduct our nickel operations primarily through our wholly owned subsidiary Vale Canada, which operates two nickel production systems, one
in the North Atlantic region and the other in the Asia Pacific region. We also produce copper as a coproduct in our nickel operations in Canada and,
through Vale S.A., operate a third nickel production system, On¸ca Puma, in the South Atlantic region. Our nickel operations are set forth in the
following table.

Company/Mining System Location

Description/History

Operations

Mining title

Power source

Access/
Transportation

Lines of Business

North Atlantic:

Vale Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada —

Sudbury,
Ontario

4
4
3
3

Integrated mining, milling, smelting
and refining operations to process ore
into finished nickel with a nominal
capacity of 66,000 metric tons of
refined nickel per year and additional
nickel oxide feed for the refinery in
Wales and our nickel plants in Asia.
Mining operations in Sudbury began
in 1885. We acquired the Sudbury
operations in 2006.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

and mining
licenses of
occupation with
indefinite
expiration date(1).

Patented mineral
rights with no
expiration date;
mineral leases
expiring between

Nickel. Primarily underground
mining operations with nickel
sulfide ore bodies, which also
contain some copper, cobalt,
PGMs, gold and silver. We also
process external feeds from third 2018 and 2037;
parties and from our Voisey’s
Bay operation. By the end of
2017, we ceased receiving
Voisey’s Bay feed in Sudbury. In
addition to producing finished
nickel in Sudbury, we ship a
nickel oxide intermediate
product to our nickel refinery in
Wales for processing to final
products. In September 2017, as
part of our efforts to reduce
sulfur dioxide and other air
emissions to meet regulatory
changes in Ontario and
Manitoba, and to rationalize our
smelting and refining assets
across Canada, we modified our
processes including switching to
a single flash furnace in
Sudbury.
Copper. We produce two
intermediate copper products,
copper concentrate and copper
anode, and we also produce a
finished electrowon copper
cathode product. In September
2017, we switched to a single
flash furnace in Sudbury, and as
a result, we ceased copper
anode production resulting in
increased production of copper
concentrate and copper matte.

Supplied by Ontario’s Located by the Trans-
Canada highway and
provincial electricity
the two major railways
grid and produced
that pass through the
directly by Vale via
Sudbury area. Finished
hydro generation.
products are delivered
to the North American
market by truck. For
overseas customers,
the products are
loaded into containers
and travel intermodally
(truck/rail/
containership) through
both east and west
coast Canadian ports.

12APR201813380467

Company/Mining System Location

Description/History

Operations

Mining title

Power source

Lines of Business

Access/
Transportation

Order in Council
leases expiring
between 2020 and utility company.

Supplied by
Manitoba’s provincial delivered to market by

Finished products are

Vale Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada —
Thompson,
Manitoba

(cid:127)

Integrated mining, milling, smelting
and refining operations to process ore
into finished nickel. We intend to
phase out smelting and refining
activities in Thompson during 2018.
Thompson mineralization was
discovered in 1956, and Thompson
operations were acquired by us in
2006.

4
4
4
4

leases expiring in
2034.

Nickel. Primarily underground
mining operations with nickel
sulfide ore bodies, which also
contain some copper and cobalt. 2025; mineral
In 2017, we permanently shut
down one of the two furnaces
in Thompson and the other will
be shut down in 2018. By the
end of 2017, we had ceased
processing Voisey’s Bay feed in
Thompson. Starting in the
second half of 2018, we plan to
send the majority of the nickel
concentrate from Thompson to
be refined in Sudbury and Long
Harbour. Smelting and refining
activities in Thompson are being
phased out in 2018, primarily
due to the capital costs
associated with the federal
sulfur dioxide emission limits
defined under the pollution
prevention plan under the
Canadian Environmental
Protection Act (CEPA), as well as
to declining feed availability. We
have secured an extension for
implementation of our current
sulfur dioxide emission reduction
plan, which permits smelting
and refining through 2018,
subject to negotiated emission
limits.

truck in North
America. For overseas
customers, the
products are loaded
into containers and
travel intermodally
(truck/rail/
containership) to final
destination through
both west coast and
east coast Canadian
ports.

12APR201813380467

Company/Mining System Location

Description/History

Operations

Mining title

Power source

Lines of Business

Access/
Transportation

Vale Newfoundland &
Labrador Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada —

Integrated open-pit mining and
milling operation at Voisey’s Bay
producing nickel and copper
concentrates with refining of nickel

Voisey’s Bay
and Long
Harbour,
Newfoundland concentrate at Long Harbour into
and Labrador

finished metal products with an
expected nominal capacity of
approximately 50,000 metric tons of
refined nickel per year upon ramp-up.
Voisey’s Bay’s operations started in
2005 and was purchased by us in
2006.

4
4
5
5

Vale Europe Limited . . . . . . . . . U.K.—

 Clydach,
Wales

Stand-alone nickel refinery (producer
of finished nickel), with nominal
capacity of 40,000 metric tons per
year. The Clydach refinery commenced operations to produce finished nickel
operations in 1902 and was acquired
by us in 2006.

in the form of powders and pellets.

The nickel and copper

Power at Voisey’s
Bay is 100% supplied concentrates from
through Vale owned Voisey’s Bay are
diesel generators.
Power at the Long
Harbour refinery is
supplied by the
Newfoundland and
Labrador provincial
utility company.

transported to the
port by haulage trucks
and then shipped by
drybulk vessels to
either overseas
markets or to our Long
Harbour and other
Canadian operations
for further refining.

Mining lease
expiring in 2027,
with a right of
further renewals
for 10-year

Comprised of the Ovoid open pit
mine, and deposits for underground
operations at a later stage. We mine
nickel sulfide ore bodies, which also
contain copper and cobalt. The Long
Harbour facility continued to ramp up periods.
in 2017 while processing feed from
Voisey’s Bay concentrate exclusively. In
2017, as a result of the continuing
ramp-up of the Long Harbour nickel
refinery, copper cathode and cobalt
rounds were produced for the first
time. The portion of mid-grade and
high-grade concentrate not shipped to
Long Harbour in 2017 was shipped to
our Sudbury and Thompson
operations for final processing
(smelting and refining) while copper
concentrate was sold to the market.
Shipments of nickel concentrate to
Sudbury and Thompson ceased at the
end of 2017. We expect the ramp-up
to continue at Long Harbour during
2018.
Processes a nickel intermediate
product, nickel oxide, supplied from
our Sudbury and Matsuzaka

–

Supplied through the Transported to final
customer in the UK
national electricity
and continental
grid.
Europe by truck.
Products for overseas
customers are trucked
to the ports of
Southampton and
Liverpool and shipped
by ocean container.

12APR201813380467

Company/Mining System Location

Description/History

Operations

Mining title

Power source

Lines of Business

Access/
Transportation

Asia/Pacific

PT Vale Indonesia Tbk
(‘‘PTVI’’) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4
4
6
6

Indonesia — Open cast mining area and related
Sorowako,
Sulawesi

processing facility (producer of nickel
matte, an intermediate product) with
a nominal capacity of approximately
80,000 metric tons of nickel in matte
per year. PTVI’s shares are traded on
the Indonesia Stock Exchange. We
indirectly hold 59.27% of PTVI’s share
capital, Sumitomo Metal
Mining Co., Ltd (‘‘Sumitomo’’) holds
20.09%, Sumitomo Corporation holds
0.1% and the public holds 20.49%.
PTVI was established in 1968,
commenced its commercial operations
in 1978 and was acquired by us in
2006.

PTVI mines nickel laterite ore and
produces nickel matte, which is
shipped primarily to our nickel
refinery in Japan. Pursuant to
life-of-mine off-take agreements, PTVI
sells 80% of its production to our
wholly owned subsidiary Vale Canada
and 20% of its production to
Sumitomo.

Contract of work
expiring in 2025,
entitled to two
consecutive
ten-year
extensions, subject
to approval of the
Indonesian
government. See
Regulatory
matters—Mining
rights and
regulation of
mining activities.

Trucked approximately
55 km to the river port
at Malili and then

order to load
break-bulk vessels for
onward shipment.

Produced primarily
by PTVI’s low-cost
hydroelectric power
plants on the Larona loaded onto barges in
River (there are
currently three
facilities). PTVI has
thermal generating
facilities in order to
supplement its
hydroelectric power
supply with a source
of energy that is not
subject to
hydrological factors.

Vale Nouvelle-
Cal ´edonie S.A.S (‘‘VNC’’) . . . . . New

Mining and processing operations

Caledonia — (producer of nickel oxide, nickel
Southern
Province

hydroxide and cobalt carbonate). We
hold 95% of VNC’s shares and the
remaining 5% is held by Soci ´et ´e de
Participation Mini `ere du Sud
Cal ´edonien SAS (‘‘SPMSC’’). SPMSC has
an obligation to increase its stake in
VNC to 10% within two years after
the startup of commercial production.

The ongoing ramp-up of our nickel
operation in New Caledonia is
expected to continue in the coming
years. VNC utilizes a high-pressure acid
leach process to treat limonitic laterite
and saprolitic laterite ores. As part of
the ramp-up, VNC is undertaking a
review of the capacity of different
units of the plant to identify and
eliminate bottlenecks. We expect to
continue to ramp up VNC over the
next five to six years to reach nominal
production capacity of 57,000 metric
tons per year of nickel contained in
nickel oxide, which will be further
processed in our refineries in Asia, and
hydroxide cake form (IPNM), and
4,500 metric tons of cobalt in
carbonate form.

Mining concessions Supplied through the Products are packed
expiring between
2022 and 2051(2).

national electricity
grid and by
independent
producers.

into containers and are
trucked approximately
4 km to Prony port
and shipped by ocean
container.

12APR201813380467

Company/Mining System Location

Description/History

Operations

Mining title

Power source

Lines of Business

Access/
Transportation

Vale Japan Limited . . . . . . . . . . . Japan —

Matsuzaka

4
4
7
7

Vale Taiwan Limited . . . . . . . . . Taiwan —
Kaoshiung

Vale Nickel (Dalian) Co., Ltd . China —

Dalian,
Liaoning

Produces intermediate products for
Stand-alone nickel refinery (producer
further processing in our refineries in
of intermediate and finished nickel),
with a nominal capacity of 60,000
Asia and the UK, and finished nickel
metric tons per year. We own 87.2% products using nickel matte sourced
of the shares, and Sumitomo owns the from PTVI.
remaining shares. The refinery was
built in 1965 and was acquired by us
in 2006.

Stand-alone nickel refinery (producer
of finished nickel), with nominal
capacity of 18,000 metric tons per
year. The refinery commenced
production in 1983 and was acquired
by us in 2006.

Produces finished nickel for the
stainless steel industry, primarily using
intermediate products from our
Matsuzaka and New Caledonian
operations. The plant was put on care
and maintenance during 2017.

Stand-alone nickel refinery (producer
of finished nickel), with nominal
capacity of 32,000 metric tons per
year. We own 98.3% of the equity
interest and Ningbo Sunhu Chemical
Products Co., Ltd. owns the remaining
1.7%. The refinery commenced
production in 2008.

Produces finished nickel for the
stainless steel industry, primarily using
intermediate products from our
Matsuzaka and New Caledonian
operations.

–

–

–

Supplied through the Products trucked over
national electricity
grid. Acquired from customers in Japan.
regional utility
companies.

public roads to

For overseas customers,
the product is loaded
into containers at the
plant and shipped
from the ports of
Yokkaichi and Nagoya.

Supplied through the Trucked over public
national electricity
roads to customers in
grid. Acquired from Taiwan. For overseas
regional utility
companies.

customers, the product
is loaded into
containers at the plant
and shipped from the
port of Kaoshiung.

Supplied through the Product transported
national electricity
over public roads by
grid. Acquired from truck and by railway to
regional utility
companies.

customers in China. It
is also shipped in
ocean containers to
overseas and some
domestic customers.

12APR201813380467

Company/Mining System Location

Description/History

Operations

Mining title

Power source

Lines of Business

Access/
Transportation

South Atlantic
Vale/On¸ca Puma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brazil —

Ouril ˆandia do
Norte, Par ´a

Mining and smelting operation
producing a high-quality ferronickel
for application within the stainless
steel industry.

4
4
8
8

Mining concession
for indefinite
period.

Supplied through the The ferro-nickel is
national electricity
grid. Produced
directly by Vale or
acquired through
power purchase
agreements.

transported by truck to
the Vila do Conde
maritime terminal in
the Brazilian state of
Par ´a, and exported in
ocean containers.

The On¸ca Puma mine is built on
lateritic nickel deposits of saprolitic
laterite ore. The operation produces
ferronickel via the rotary kiln-electric
furnace process. We are currently
operating a single line with one
electric furnace and two lines of
calcine and rotary kilns, with nominal
capacity estimated at 27,000 metric
tons per year. We will evaluate
opportunities to restart the second
line operations in light of market
conditions and the associated business
case.

(1) We submitted applications for renewal of leases in Sudbury in 2016 and 2017 and the approval process is ongoing. All conditions required for the renewal have been fulfilled. This process usually

(2)

takes a number of years, and we can continue to operate while the approval process is ongoing.
VNC has requested the renewal of some concessions that were scheduled to expire before 2018. All conditions required for the renewal have been fulfilled. This process usually takes a number of
years and we can continue to operate while the approval process is ongoing.

12APR201813380467

Lines of Business

2.1.2

Production

The following table sets forth our annual mine production by operating mine (or, on an aggregate basis in
the case of the Sulawesi operating areas operated by PTVI in Indonesia, because it is organized by mining
areas rather than individual mines) and the average percentage grades of nickel and copper. The mine
production at Sulawesi represents the product from PTVI’s screening station delivered to PTVI’s processing
plant  and  does  not  include  nickel  losses  due  to  drying  and  smelting.  For  our  Sudbury,  Thompson  and
Voisey’s  Bay  operations,  the  production  and  average  grades  represent  the  mine  product  delivered  to
those  operations’  respective  processing  plants  and  do  not  include  adjustments  due  to  beneficiation,
smelting or refining. For our On¸ca Puma operation in Brazil and VNC operation in New Caledonia the
production  and  average  grade  represents  in-place  ore  production  and  does  not  include  losses  due  to
processing.

2015(1)

Grade

2016(1)

Grade

2017(1)

Grade

Production

Copper Nickel

Production

Copper Nickel

Production

Copper Nickel

1,138
774
1,471
778
1,309
165
528

1.42
2.00
0.63
1.39
2.95
0.70
1.88

1.38
2.33
0.73
1.94
1.56
0.95
1.62

979
832
1,373
711
1,209
75
671

1.44
2.17
0.57
1.34
3.76
0.42
1.86

1.26
2.76
0.64
1.91
1.47
0.88
1.43

814
595
448
635
1,007
–
710

1.40
2.91
0.53
1.48
3.76
–
1.90

1.30
3.17
0.62
1.93
1.53
–
1.33

Ontario operating mines . . . . . .
Copper Cliff North . . . . . . . .
Creighton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stobie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Garson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coleman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ellen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Totten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total Ontario

operations. . . . . . . . . .

6,164

1.64

1.46

5,850

1.84

1.47

4,210

2.18

1.65

Manitoba operating mines . . .
Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Birchtree. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,163
564

Total Manitoba

operations. . . . . . . . . .

1,727

Voisey’s Bay operating mines

–
–

–

1.82
1.47

1.71

1,140
503

1,643

–
–

–

1.97
1.36

1.78

1,229
329

1,557

–
–

–

1.94
1.30

1.81

Ovoid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,328

1.51

2.57

2,392

1.44

2.62

2,378

1.44

2.56

Sulawesi operating mines

Sorowako . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,694

New Caledonia operating

mines

VNC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,561

Brazil operating mines

On¸ca Puma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,024

–

–

–

1.99

4,708

1.41

2.13

2,919

1,710

–

–

–

1.93

4,569

–

1.89

1.53

2.04

3,030

1.47

964

–

2.05

(1)

Production is stated in thousands of metric tons. Grade is % of copper or nickel, respectively.

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The following table sets forth information about our nickel production, including: nickel refined through
our  facilities  and  intermediates  designated  for  sale.  The  numbers  below  are  reported  on  a  contained
nickel ore-source basis.

Finished production by ore source for the year
ended December 31,

Mine

Type

2015

2016

2017

(thousand metric tons contained nickel)

Sudbury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voisey’s Bay(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sorowako(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On¸ca Puma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Caledonia(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
External(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground
Underground
Open pit
Open cast
Open pit
Open pit
–

54.4
24.8
53.0
79.5
24.4
26.9
26.7

80.4
26.5
49.0
81.1
24.1
34.3
15.6

61.9
23.0
51.8
73.1
24.7
40.3
13.1

Total(5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

290.6

311.0

288.2

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)

Includes finished nickel produced at Long Harbour, Sudbury and Thompson.
These figures have not been adjusted to reflect our ownership. We have a 59.2% interest in PTVI, which owns the Sorowako mines.
These figures have not been adjusted to reflect our ownership. We have a 95.0% interest in VNC.
Finished nickel processed at our facilities using feeds purchased from unrelated parties.
These figures do not include tolling of feeds for unrelated parties.

2.1.3

Customers and sales

Our nickel customers are broadly distributed on a global basis. In 2017, 45% of our refined nickel sales
were delivered to customers in Asia, 24% to Europe, 24% to North America and 7% to other markets. We
have short-term fixed-volume contracts with customers for the majority of our expected annual nickel
sales. These contracts generally provide stable demand for a significant portion of our annual production.

Nickel is an exchange-traded metal, listed on the London Metal Exchange (‘‘LME’’) and Shanghai Futures
Exchange (‘‘SHFE’’), and most nickel products are priced according to a discount or premium to the LME
price,  depending  primarily  on  the  nickel  product’s  physical  and  technical  characteristics.  Our  finished
nickel products represent what is known in the industry as ‘‘primary’’ nickel, meaning nickel produced
principally from nickel ores (as opposed to ‘‘secondary’’ nickel, which is recovered from recycled nickel-
containing  material).  Finished  primary  nickel  products  are  distinguishable  in  terms  of  the  following
characteristics,  which  determine  the  product  price  level  and  the  suitability  for  various  end-use
applications:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

nickel  content  and  purity  level:  (i)  intermediates  have  various  levels  of  nickel  content,
(ii) nickel pig iron has 1.5-15% nickel, (iii) ferro-nickel has 15-40% nickel, (iv) refined nickel
with  less  than  99.8%  nickel,  including  products  such  as  Tonimet(cid:2)  and  Utility(cid:2)  nickel,
(v) standard LME-grade nickel has a minimum of 99.8% nickel, and (vi) high-purity nickel has
a minimum of 99.9% nickel and does not contain specific elemental impurities;

shape (such as discrete or filamentary powders, pellets, discs, squares and strips); and

size (from micron powder particles to large full-sized cathodes)

In 2017, the principal end-use applications for nickel were:

(cid:127)

stainless steel (69% of global nickel consumption);

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non-ferrous alloys, alloy steels and foundry applications (17% of global nickel consumption);

Lines of Business

nickel plating (6% of global nickel consumption);

batteries (3% of global nickel consumption); and

specialty  applications,  such  as  chemicals  and  powder  metallurgy  (5%  of  global  nickel
consumption).

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

In 2017, 63% of our refined nickel sales were made into non-stainless steel applications, compared to the
industry average for primary nickel producers of 31%. This brings more diversification and sales volume
stability to our nickel revenues. As a result of our focus on higher-value segments, our average realized
nickel prices for refined nickel have typically exceeded LME cash nickel prices.

We offer sales and technical support to our customers on a global basis through an established marketing
network  headquartered  at  our  head  office  in  Toronto  (Canada).  We  have  a  well-established  global
marketing network for finished nickel, based at our head office in Toronto (Canada). We also have sales
and technical support distributed around the world with primary back offices in Singapore and Toronto
(Canada) and have sales managers located in St.Prex (Switzerland), Paramus, New Jersey (United States)
and  at  several  sites  throughout  Asia.  For  information  about  demand  and  prices,  see  Operating  and
financial review and prospects—Major factors affecting prices.

2.1.4

Competition

The global nickel market is highly competitive. Our key competitive strengths include our long-life mines,
our  low  cash  costs  of  production  relative  to  other  nickel  producers,  sophisticated  exploration  and
processing  technologies,  and  a  diversified  portfolio  of  products.  Our  global  marketing  reach,  diverse
product  mix,  and  technical  support  direct  our  products  into  applications  and  geographic  regions  that
offer the highest margins for our products.

Our nickel deliveries represented 13% of global consumption for primary nickel in 2017. In addition to us,
the  largest  mine-to-market  integrated  suppliers  in  the  nickel  industry  (each  with  its  own  integrated
facilities, including nickel mining, processing, refining and marketing operations) are Nornickel, Glencore,
Jinchuan Nonferrous Metals Corporation and BHP Billiton. Together with us, these companies accounted
for about 39% of global refined primary nickel production in 2017.

While stainless steel production is a major driver of global nickel demand, stainless steel producers can
obtain nickel with a wide range of nickel content, including secondary nickel (scrap). The choice between
primary and secondary nickel is largely based on their relative prices and availability. See Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects—Major factors affecting prices—Nickel.

Competition  in  the  nickel  market  is  based  primarily  on  quality  and  reliability  of  supply  and  price.  We
believe our operations are competitive in the nickel market because of the high quality of our nickel
products and our relatively low production costs.

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2.2

Copper

2.2.1 Operations

We conduct our copper operations at the parent-company level in Brazil and through our subsidiaries in Canada.

Mining complex/Location

Location

Description/History

Mineralization/
Operations

Mining title

Power source

Access/Transportation

Lines of Business

Brazil:

Vale/Sossego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Caraj ´as, state of

Par ´a.

5
5
2
2

Vale/Salobo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Caraj ´as, state of

Par ´a.

Canada:

Vale Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada —

Sudbury, Ontario

Vale Canada/ Voisey’s

Canada —

Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Voisey’s Bay,

Newfoundland
and Labrador

The copper ore is mined Mining concession
Two main copper ore
using the open-pit
bodies, Sossego and
method, and the
Sequeirinho, and a
run-of-mine is processed
processing facility to
by means of standard
concentrate the ore.
primary crushing and
Sossego was developed
by Vale. Production
conveying, SAG milling (a
started in 2004 and has a semi-autogenous mill that
nominal capacity of
uses a large rotating
approximately 93,000 tpy drum filled with ore,
of copper in concentrates. water and steel grinding

for an indefinite
period.

Supplied through the We truck the concentrate
national electricity
grid. Produced
directly by Vale or
acquired through
power purchase
agreements.

to a storage terminal in
Parauapebas and then
transport it via the EFC
railroad to the Itaqui Port
in S ˜ao Lu´ıs, state of
Maranh ˜ao. We
constructed an
85-kilometer road to link
Sossego to Parauapebas.

balls to transform the ore
into a fine slurry), ball
milling, copper
concentrate flotation,
tailings disposal,
concentrate thickening,
filtration and load out.

for an indefinite

Salobo I processing plant Our Salobo copper mine Mining concession
is mined using the
started production in
open-pit method, and the period.
2012 and has a total
run-of-mine is processed
capacity of 12 Mtpy of
by means of standard
ore processed. The open
primary and secondary
pit mine and mill
crushing, conveying, roller
concluded their ramp up
in the fourth quarter of
press grinding, ball
2016 to a capacity of 24 milling, copper
Mtpy of ore processed
with the full
implementation of Salobo concentrate thickening,
II expansion. Salobo I and filtration and load out.
II have a total capacity of
approximately 197,000
tpy of copper in
concentrates.

concentrate flotation,
tailings disposal,

Supplied through the We truck the concentrate
national electricity
grid. Acquired
through power
purchase
agreements.

to a storage terminal in
Parauapebas and then
transport it via the EFC
railroad to the Itaqui Port
in S ˜ao Lu´ıs, state of
Maranh ˜ao. We
constructed a
90-kilometer road to link
Salobo to Parauapebas.

See —Base metals—Nickel—Operations

See —Base metals—Nickel—Operations

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2.2.2

Production

The  following  table  sets  forth  our  annual  mine  production  in  our  Salobo  and  Sossego  mines  and  the
average  percentage  grades  of  copper.  The  production  and  average  grade  represents  in-place  ore
production  and  does  not  include  losses  due  to  processing.  For  the  annual  production  of  copper  as  a
coproduct in our nickel operations, see —Base metals—Nickel—Production.

2015(1)

2016(1)

2017(1)

Production

Grade

Production

Grade

Production

Grade

Brazil

Sossego . . . . . . .
Salobo . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . .

12,857
44,296

57,153

0.93
0.62

0.69

12,687
57,279

69,966

0.82
0.62

0.66

12,380
61,573

73,953

0.81
0.63

0.66

(1)

Production is stated in thousands of metric tons. Grade is % of copper.

The following table sets forth information on our copper production.

Mine

Brazil:

Finished production by ore source for the year
ended December 31,

Type

2015

2016

2017

(thousand metric tons)

Salobo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sossego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Open pit

Canada: (as coproduct of nickel operations)

Sudbury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voisey’s Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
External(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground
Open pit
Underground
–

Zambia:

Lubambe(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground

Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

155
104

98
32
1
23

10

424

176
93

122
32
3
21

8

453

193
100

98
34
2
12

7

446

(1) We process copper at our facilities using feed purchased from unrelated parties.
(2)

For financial reporting purposes, Lubambe is accounted for under the equity method. We have included production numbers from
Lubambe,  adjusted  to  reflect  our  40%  equity  interest,  as  the  level  of  production  and  operating  performance  from  entities
accounted for under the equity method impacts our Adjusted EBITDA. Our use of Adjusted EBITDA is explained in —Results of
operations—Results  of  operations  by  segment—Adjusted  EBITDA  by  segment.  Vale  sold  its  stake  in  the  Lubambe  mine  in
December 2017.

2.2.3

Customers and sales

We sell copper concentrates from Sossego and Salobo under medium- and long-term contracts to copper
smelters  in  Europe,  India  and  Asia.  We  have  medium-term  copper  supply  agreements  with  domestic
customer for part of the copper concentrates and copper matte produced in Sudbury, which are also sold
under  long-term  contracts  in  Europe  and  Asia.  We  sell  copper  concentrates  from  Voisey’s  Bay  under
long-term  contracts  to  customers  in  Europe  and  electrowon  copper  cathodes  from  Sudbury  and  Long
Harbour in North America under short-term sales agreements.

2.2.4

Competition

The global refined copper market is highly competitive. Producers are integrated mining companies and
custom smelters, covering all regions of the world, while consumers are principally wire rod and copper-

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alloy producers. Competition occurs mainly on a regional level and is based primarily on production costs,
quality,  reliability  of  supply  and  logistics  costs.  The  world’s  largest  copper  cathode  producers  are
Corporaci ´on  Nacional  del  Cobre  de  Chile  (‘‘Codelco’’),  Aurubis  AG,  Jiangxi  Copper  Corporation  Ltd.,
Glencore  and  Freeport  McMoRan  Copper  &  Gold  Inc.,  each  operating  at  the  parent-company  level  or
through subsidiaries. Our participation in the global refined copper cathodes market is marginal as we
position ourselves more competitively in the copper concentrate market.

Copper concentrate and copper anode are intermediate products in the copper production chain. Both
the concentrate and anode markets are competitive, having numerous producers but fewer participants
and smaller volumes than in the copper cathode market due to the high levels of integration by the major
copper producers.

In the copper concentrate market, mining occurs on a global basis with a predominant share from South
America, while consumers are custom smelters located mainly in Europe and Asia. Competition in the
custom  copper  concentrate  market  occurs  mainly  on  a  global  level  and  is  based  on  production  costs,
quality, logistics costs and reliability of supply. The largest competitors in the copper concentrate market
are  Freeport  McMoRan,  Glencore,  BHP  Billiton,  Codelco,  Anglo  American  and  Antofagasta  plc;  each
operating at the parent-company level or through subsidiaries. Our market share in 2017 was about 3.5%
of the total custom copper concentrate market.

The copper anode/blister market is very limited; generally, anodes are produced to supply each company’s
integrated  refinery.  The  trade  in  anodes/blister  is  limited  to  those  facilities  that  have  more  smelting
capacity than refining capacity or to those situations where logistics cost savings provide an incentive to
source  anodes  from  outside  smelters.  The  largest  competitors  in  the  copper  anode  market  in  2017
included Glencore, First Quantum Minerals Ltd, Codelco, and China Nonferrous Metals, each operating at
the parent-company level or through subsidiaries.

2.3

PGMs and other precious metals

As byproducts of our Sudbury nickel operations in Canada, we recover significant quantities of PGMs, as
well as small quantities of gold and silver. We operate a processing facility in Port Colborne, Ontario,
which produces PGMs, gold and silver intermediate products using feed from our Sudbury operation. We
have  a  refinery  in  Acton,  England,  where  we  process  our  intermediate  products,  as  well  as  feeds
purchased from unrelated parties and toll-refined materials. As part of business optimization, we plan to
close our Acton refinery in 2018. At such time, the PGM concentrates from our Canadian operations will
be sold to third parties. Our base metals marketing department sells our own PGMs and other precious
metals, as well as products from unrelated parties and toll-refined products, on a sales agency basis. Our
copper concentrates from our Salobo and Sossego mines in Caraj ´as, in the Brazilian state of Par ´a, also
contain gold, the value of which we realize in the sale of those products.

In  February  2013,  we  sold  to  Wheaton  Precious  Metals  (formerly  Silver  Wheaton)  25%  of  the  gold
produced as a byproduct at our Salobo copper mine, in Brazil, for the life of that mine, and 70% of the
gold produced as a byproduct at our Sudbury nickel mines, in Canada, for 20 years. In each of March 2015
and  August  2016,  we  sold  to  Wheaton  Precious  Metals  an  additional  25%  of  the  gold  produced  as  a
byproduct at our Salobo copper mine. In consideration for the August 2016 sale, we received an initial
cash payment of US$800 million, an option value of approximately US$23 million from a reduction of the
exercise price of the warrants of Wheaton Precious Metals held by Vale since 2013, and ongoing payments
of the lesser of US$400 per ounce (subject to a 1% annual inflation adjustment starting January 1, 2019)
and the prevailing market price, for each ounce of gold that we deliver under the agreement. We may
receive an additional cash payment if we expand our capacity to process Salobo copper ores to more than
28 Mtpy before 2036. The additional cash payment may range from US$113 million to US$953 million,

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depending on ore grade, timing and size of the expansion. See Business overview—Significant changes in
our business. Pursuant to the gold stream contract, Wheaton Precious Metals received 280,000 oz. of gold
in 2017.

The following table sets forth information on the contained volume of precious metals and platinum
group metals (PGMs) as a byproduct of our production of nickel and copper concentrates.

Mine

Sudbury(1):

Type

2015

2016

2017

(thousand troy ounces of contained metal)

Platinum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Palladium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gold(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground
Underground
Underground

Salobo:

Gold(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit

Sossego:

Gold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit

154
341
89

251

80

166
322
98

317

67

144
214
74

346

65

(1)

(2)

Includes metal produced from unrelated parties feed purchases. Includes production out of Ontario (Canada) and Acton (England)
production. Excludes tolling from unrelated parties.
Figures represent 100% of Salobo and Sudbury contained volume of gold as a byproduct of our production of nickel and copper
concentrates and do not deduct the portion of the gold sold to Wheaton Precious Metals.

2.4

Cobalt

We recover significant quantities of cobalt as a byproduct of our nickel operations. In 2017, we produced
1,675 metric tons of refined cobalt metal at our Port Colborne refinery, 1,231 metric tons of cobalt rounds
at our Long Harbour refinery, 2,780 metric tons of cobalt in a cobalt-based intermediate product in New
Caledonia, and our remaining cobalt production consisted of 125 metric tons of cobalt contained in other
intermediate products (such as nickel concentrates). As a result of the ramp-up of VNC operations in New
Caledonia, our production of cobalt intermediate as a byproduct of our nickel production is increasing.
We sell cobalt on a global basis. Our cobalt metal is electro-refined at our Port Colborne refinery and has
very  high  purity  levels  (99.8%)  meeting  the  LME  contract  specification.  Cobalt  metal  is  used  in  the
production of various alloys, particularly for aerospace applications, as well as the manufacture of cobalt-
based chemicals.

The following table sets forth information on our cobalt production.

Finished production by ore source for the year
ended December 31,

Mine

Type

2015

2016

2017

Sudbury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voisey’s Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Caledonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others(1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground
Underground
Open pit
Open pit
–

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(contained metric tons)

751
365
849
2,391
177

4,533

882
700
887
3,188
143

5,799

840
138
1,829
2,780
224

5,811

(1)

These figures do not include tolling of feeds for unrelated parties. Includes cobalt processed at our facilities using feeds purchased
from unrelated parties and PTVI ore source 24 metric tons in 2016 and 6 metric tons in 2017.

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3.

COAL

3.1

Operations

Lines of Business

We produce metallurgical and thermal coal through our subsidiary Vale Mo¸cambique, which operates the Moatize mine. We also have a minority
interest in a Chinese company, Henan Longyu Energy Resources Co., Ltd. (‘‘Longyu’’).

Company/
Mining complex

Location

Description/History

Mineralization/ Operations

Mining title

Power source

Access/ Transportation

5
5
6
6

Vale Mo¸cambique

Moatize . . . . . . . . . . . . Tete,

Mozambique

expiring in 2032,
renewable
thereafter.

Produces metallurgical and thermal Mining concession
Open-cut mine, which was
coal. Moatize’s main branded
developed directly by Vale.
products are the Chipanga
Operations started in August 2011
premium hard coking coal and
and are expected to reach a
nominal production capacity of 22 Moatize Low Vol Premium hard
Mtpy, considering the Moatize
expansion, comprised of
metallurgical and thermal coal and products. The optimal product
the Nacala Logistics Corridor
ramp-up. Vale has an indirect
80.75% stake, Mitsui has an
indirect 14.25% stake and the
remaining is owned by Empresa
Mo¸cambicana de Explora¸c ˜ao
Mineira, S.A.

portfolio will come as a result of
market trials. Coal from the mines
is currently processed at a CHPP
with a capacity of 4,000 metric
tons per hour. An additional CHPP
began production in August 2016,
which increased feed capacity by
additional 4,000 metric tons per
hour.

coking coal, but there is
operational flexibility for multiple

The coal is transported

Supplied by local
utility company. Back from the mine to the
port at Nacala- `a-Velha
up supply on site.
via the Nacala Logistics
Corridor.

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3.2

Production

The following table sets forth information on our marketable coal production.

Operation

Metallurgical coal:

Mine type

2015

2016

2017

Production for the year ended December 31,

(thousand metric tons)

Moatize(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open-cut

Thermal coal:

Moatize(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open-cut

3,401

1,559

3,480

2,012

6,953

4,307

(1)

These figures correspond to 100% production at Moatize, and are not adjusted to reflect our ownership.

3.3

Customers and sales

Coal  sales  from  our  Moatize  operations,  in  Mozambique,  target  global  steel  and  energy  markets,
including Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. Our Chinese coal joint venture directs its sales into the
Chinese domestic market.

3.4

Competition

The global coal industry comprises markets for black (metallurgical and thermal) and brown (lignite) coal,
and is highly competitive.

The  demand  for  steel,  especially  in  Asia,  underpins  demand  for  metallurgical  coal,  while  demand  for
electricity underpins demand for thermal coal. Lower steel exports from China and better global macro-
economic data have helped steel demand elsewhere to recover, increasing seaborne coal demand and
coking coal prices. High price levels incentivize producers to maximize production, especially in the United
States, Canada and Australia. Weather and infrastructure issues in Australia in 2017 kept seaborne supply
tight, but supply is expected to normalize in 2018 and set to rise year-on-year, increasing completion in
the seaborne market.

Competitiveness in the coal industry is based primarily on the economics of production costs, coal quality,
transportation costs and proximity to the market. Our key competitive strengths are completion of a new
and competitive transportation corridor, proximity to the Atlantic and Indian markets (as compared to our
main competitors) and the size and quality of our reserves.

Major  participants  in  the  seaborne  coal  market  are  subsidiaries,  affiliates  and  joint  ventures  of  BHP
Billiton, Glencore, Anglo American, Rio Tinto, Teck, Peabody, PT Adaro Energy and the Shenhua Group,
among others.

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4.

Infrastructure

4.1

Logistics

We have developed our logistics business based on the transportation needs of our mining operations and
we also provide transportation services for other customers. We conduct our logistics businesses at the
parent-company level and through subsidiaries and joint ventures, as set forth in the table below.

Company

Business

Location

Voting

Total

Partners

Our share of capital

Vale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Railroad (EFVM and EFC),

Brazil

port and maritime terminal
operations

(%)

–

–

–

VLI(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Railroad, port, inland

Brazil

37.6

37.6

terminal and maritime
terminal operations. Holding
of certain general cargo
logistics assets

MRS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Railroad operations

Brazil

46.8

48.2

CPBS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Port and maritime terminal

Brazil

operations

PTVI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Port and maritime terminal

Indonesia

100

operations

Vale Log´ıstica

Argentina(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . Port operations
Vale Log´ıstica Uruguay . . . Port operations
Central East African

Railways (‘‘CEAR’’)(3) . . . Railroad

Corredor de

Desenvolvimento do
Norte (‘‘CDN’’)(3) . . . . . . . Railroad and maritime

terminal operations

Corredor Log´ıstico
Integrado de
Nacala S.A. (‘‘CLN’’)(4) . Railroad and port operations

Vale Logistics Limited

(‘‘VLL’’)(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Railroad operations
Transbarge Navegaci ´on . . Paran ´a and Paraguay

Argentina
Uruguay

Malawi

Mozambique

Malawi
Paraguay

Waterway System (Convoys)
VNC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Port and maritime terminal

New Caledonia

VMM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Port and maritime terminal

Malaysia

operations

Vale Newfoundland &

Labrador Limited . . . . . . . Port operations

operations

Voisey’s Bay and
Long Harbour, in
Newfoundland
and Labrador

FI-FGTS, Mitsui and
Brookfield

CSN, Congonhas Min ´erios,
Usiminas Participa¸c ˜oes e
Log´ısticas, Gerdau, Railvest
Investments and public
investors.
–

100

59.2

100
100

46.2

59.2

Sumitomo, public investors

100
100

46.2

–
–

Mitsui, investors

50.0

50
100

95.0

100

50.0

50
100

95.0

100

100

100

Mitsui

Mitsui
–

SPMSC

–

–

–

Vale Oman Distribution

Center LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Port and maritime terminal

Oman

100

100

operations

(1)

(2)

BNDES holds debentures issued by Vale that are exchangeable into part of Vale’s stake in VLI. Vale’s equity interests in VLI may be
reduced by up to 8% if BNDES exercises its rights under those debentures.
Vale Log´ıstica Argentina is no longer operational.

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46.2

46.2

Mitsui, investors

(3)

(4)

Vale holds its interest in CEAR and CDN through a 50% interest in Nacala Corridor (DIFC) Limited and Nacala Corridor Holding,
which collectively own 92.4% of these operating companies that comprise the NLC.
Vale holds its interest in CLN and VLL through a 50% interest in Nacala Corridor (DIFC) Limited and Nacala Corridor Holding, which
collectively own 100% of these operating companies that comprise the NLC.

Lines of Business

4.1.1

Railroads

Brazil

Vit ´oria a Minas railroad (‘‘EFVM’’). The EFVM railroad links our Southeastern System mines in the Iron
Quadrangle region in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais to the Tubar ˜ao Port, in Vit ´oria, in the Brazilian
state of Esp´ırito Santo. We operate this 888-kilometer railroad under a 30-year renewable concession,
which expires in 2027. The EFVM railroad consists of two lines of track extending for a distance of 584
kilometers to permit continuous railroad travel in opposite directions, and single-track branches of 304
kilometers.  Industrial  manufacturers  are  located  in  this  area  and  major  agricultural  regions  are  also
accessible to it. VLI has rights to purchase railroad transportation capacity on our EFVM railroad. In 2017,
the  EFVM  railroad  transported  a  daily  average  of  335.1  thousand  metric  tons  of  iron  ore  and
60.8 thousand metric tons of other cargo. The EFVM railroad also carried one million passengers in 2017.
In 2017, we had a fleet of 326 locomotives and 19,032 wagons at EFVM, which were operated by Vale and
third parties.

Caraj ´as railroad (‘‘EFC’’). The EFC railroad links our Northern System mines in the Caraj ´as region in the
Brazilian state of Par ´a to the Ponta da Madeira maritime terminal, in S ˜ao Luis, in the Brazilian state of
Maranh ˜ao. We operate the EFC railroad under a 30-year renewable concession, which expires in 2027. EFC
extends for 997 kilometers from our Caraj ´as mines to our Ponta da Madeira maritime terminal complex
facilities.  Its  main  cargo  is  iron  ore,  principally  carried  for  us.  VLI  has  rights  to  purchase  railroad
transportation  capacity  on  our  EFC  railroad.  In  2017,  the  EFC  railroad  transported  a  daily  average  of
473.7 thousand metric tons of iron ore and 30.2 thousand metric tons of other cargo. EFC also carried
246 thousand passengers in 2017. EFC supports the largest train, in terms of capacity, in Latin America,
which measures 3.5 kilometers, weighs 41.67 thousand gross metric tons when loaded and has 330 cars. In
2017, EFC had a fleet of 303 locomotives and 20,209 wagons, which were operated by Vale and third
parties.

The principal items of cargo of the EFVM and EFC railroads are:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

iron ore and iron ore pellets and manganese ore, carried for us and customers;

steel, coal, pig iron, limestone and other raw materials carried for customers with steel mills
located along the railroad;

agricultural products, such as soybeans, soybean meal and fertilizers; and

other general cargo, such as pulp, fuel and chemical products.

We charge market prices for customer freight, including iron ore pellets originating from joint ventures
and other enterprises in which we do not have a 100% equity interest. Market prices vary based on the
distance traveled, the type of product transported and the weight of the freight in question, and are
regulated  by  the  Brazilian  transportation  regulatory  agency,  ANTT  (Ag ˆencia  Nacional  de  Transportes
Terrestres).

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VLI. VLI provides integrated logistics solutions through 7,940 kilometers of railroads in Brazil (FCA and
FNS), eight inland terminals with a total storage capacity of 795,000 tons and three maritime terminals
and ports operations. We hold a 37.6% stake in VLI, and are party to a shareholders’ agreement with
FI-FGTS, Mitsui and Brookfield, which hold the remaining equity interests in VLI. VLI’s main assets are:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Ferrovia  Centro-Atl ˆantica  (‘‘FCA’’). Central-east  regional  railway  network  of  the  Brazilian
national railway system, held under a 30-year renewable concession, which expires in 2026.
The central east network has 7,220 kilometers of track, extending into the states of Sergipe,
Bahia, Esp´ırito Santo, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, Goi ´as and the Federal District of Brazil;

Ferrovia Norte-Sul railroad (‘‘FNS’’). A 30-year renewable subconcession for the commercial
operation of a 720-kilometer stretch of the North-South railroad in Brazil, between the cities
A¸cailandia, in the Brazilian state of Maranh ˜ao, and Porto Nacional, in the Brazilian state of
Tocantins.  This  railway  is  connected  to  EFC  railroad,  and  creates  a  new  corridor  for  the
transportation of general cargo, mainly for the export of soybeans, rice and corn produced
in the center-northern region of Brazil;

Right to purchase capacity of our EFVM and EFC railroads for general cargo; and

Right to purchase capacity of our Tubar ˜ao and Praia Mole terminals for general cargo.

In 2017, VLI transported a total of 38.184 billion ntk of general cargo, including 25.800 billion ntk from
FCA and FNS and 12.384 billion ntk through operational agreements with Vale.

MRS  Log´ıstica  S.A.  (‘‘MRS’’). The  MRS  railroad,  in  which  we  have  a  48.2%  equity  interest,  is  1,643
kilometers long and links the Brazilian states of Rio de Janeiro, S ˜ao Paulo and Minas Gerais. The MRS
railroad transports our iron ore products from the Southern System mines to our maritime terminals. In
2017, it transported a daily average of 320.2 thousand metric tons of iron ore and 148.2 thousand metric
tons of other cargo.

Africa

We are concluding the ramp-up of the Nacala Logistic Corridor (NLC), which connects the Moatize mine to
the  Nacala- `a-Velha  maritime  terminal,  located  in  Nacala,  Mozambique,  and  which  crosses  into  the
Republic  of  Malawi.  The  NLC  consists  of  railway  and  port  infrastructure,  including  greenfield  and
rehabilitation  of  existing  railways  in  Mozambique  and  Malawi  and  a  new  coal  port  terminal  in
Mozambique. The NLC will allow for the expansion of the Moatize mine and support our operations in
Southeastern Africa. In Mozambique, we are operating under two concession agreements, one related to
the Mozambican greenfield railway and another related to the newly constructed coal port, both held by
our subsidiary Corredor Log´ıstico Integrado de Nacala S.A. (‘‘CLN’’), which will expire in 2042, subject to
renewal. We have also rehabilitated existing railroads under a concession held by our subsidiary, CDN,
which will expire in 2035. In Malawi, we are operating under a concession held by our subsidiary, VLL,
which will expire in 2046, subject to renewal, and we have also rehabilitated existing railroads under a
concession  held  by  our  subsidiary,  CEAR,  which  was  extended  in  2013  for  a  30-year  period  from  the
commencement of rail services under VLL’s greenfield railway concession.

In March 2017, we concluded the transaction with Mitsui pursuant to which we transferred 50% of our
stake  in  Nacala  Logistic  Corridor,  which  includes  entities  holding  railroad  and  port  concessions  in
Mozambique  and  Malawi.  See  Overview—Business  overview—Significant  changes  in  our  business—
Partnership in coal assets in Mozambique.

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In November 2017, the NLC companies obtained project financing in the total amount of US$2.730 billion.
The transaction closed in March 2018. Vale received US$2.6 billion in proceeds, in repayment of certain
shareholders loans provided for construction of NLC, net of certain commissions paid by NLC. The project
financing  will  be  repaid  in  14  years  with  the  proceeds  obtained  from  the  tariff  charged  by  NLC  in
connection with the provision of coal transportation and general cargo services.

Lines of Business

4.1.2

Ports and maritime terminals

Brazil

We operate a port and maritime terminals principally as a means to complete the delivery of our iron ore
and iron ore pellets to bulk carrier vessels serving the seaborne market. See Ferrous minerals—Iron ore
and iron ore pellets—Iron ore operations. We also use our port and terminals to handle customers’ cargo.

Tubar ˜ao and Praia Mole Ports. The Tubar ˜ao Port, which covers an area of 18 square kilometers, is located
in the Brazilian state of Esp´ırito Santo and contains the iron ore maritime terminal and the general cargo
terminals (Terminal de Gran ´eis L´ıquidos and the Terminal de Produtos Diversos). The Praia Mole port is
also located in the Brazilian state of Esp´ırito Santo.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

The iron ore maritime terminal has two piers. From this terminal in the Tubar ˜ao Port, we
export mostly iron ore produced from our Southeastern system. Pier I can accommodate two
vessels at a time, one of up to 170,000 DWT on the southern side and one of up to 210,000
DWT on the northern side. Pier II can accommodate one vessel of up to 405,000 DWT at a
time, limited at 23 meters draft. In Pier I there are two ship loaders, which can load up to
13,500 metric tons per hour each. In Pier II there are two ship loaders that work alternately
and can each load up to 16,000 metric tons per hour continuously. In 2017, 102.2 million
metric tons of iron ore and iron ore pellets were shipped through the terminal for us. The
iron ore maritime terminal has a storage yard with a capacity of 3.1 million metric tons.

The Terminal de Produtos Diversos handled 7.0 million metric tons of grains and fertilizers in
2017. VLI has the right to purchase the capacity of the Terminal de Produtos Diversos.

The Terminal de Gran ´eis L´ıquidos handled 526 thousand metric tons of fuel in 2017. VLI has
the right to purchase the capacity of the Terminal de Gran ´eis L´ıquidos.

The Praia Mole terminal is principally a coal terminal and handled 13.2 million metric tons of
coal and other related cargo in 2017. VLI has the right to purchase the capacity of the Praia
Mole terminal.

Ponta da Madeira maritime terminal. Our Ponta da Madeira maritime terminal is located in the Brazilian
state of Maranh ˜ao. Pier I can accommodate vessels of up to 420,000 DWT and has a maximum loading rate
of 16,000 tons per hour. Pier III, which has two berths and three shiploaders, can accommodate vessels of
up to 210,000 DWT at the south berth and 180,000 DWT at the north berth (or two vessels of 180,000 DWT
simultaneously), subject to tide conditions, and has a maximum loading rate of 8,000 metric tons per hour
in each shiploader. Pier IV (south berth) is able to accommodate vessels of up to 420,000 DWT and have
two  ship  loaders  that  work  alternately  with  a  maximum  loading  rate  of  16,000  tons  per  hour.  Pier  IV
(north berth) is able to accommodate vessels of up to 420,000 DWT and have two ship loaders that work
alternately with a maximum loading rate of 16,000 tons per hour. In 2017, Vale received from ANTAQ, the
federal agency in charge of maritime transportation services, the definitive authorization to operate Pier
IV (north berth), including accreditation for international maritime traffic. Cargo shipped through our

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Ponta  da  Madeira  maritime  terminal  consists  of  the  Northern  system  production  of  iron  ore  and
manganese. In 2017, 169.5 million metric tons of iron ore were handled through the terminal. The Ponta
da Madeira maritime terminal has a storage yard with a static capacity of 6.6 million tons, which will be
expanded to 10.7 million tons. VLI currently handles and stores fertilizers, grain, pig iron and manganese
ore, which are then shipped through the Itaqui Port.

Itagua´ı  maritime  terminal—Cia.  Portu ´aria  Ba´ıa  de  Sepetiba  (‘‘CPBS’’).
From  this  terminal  we  mostly
export iron ore from our Southern system. CPBS is a wholly owned subsidiary that operates the Itagua´ı
terminal, at the Itagua´ı Port, in Sepetiba in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro, which is leased from
Companhia Docas do Rio de Janeiro (CDRJ). The Itagua´ı port terminal has a pier with one berth that allows
the loading of ships up to 17.8 meters of draft and approximately 200,000 DWT of capacity. In 2017, the
terminal loaded 19.1 million metric tons of iron ore.

Gua´ıba Island maritime terminal.
From this terminal we also export mostly iron ore from our Southern
system. We operate a maritime terminal on Gua´ıba Island in the Sepetiba Bay, in the Brazilian state of Rio
de Janeiro. The iron ore terminal has a pier with two berths that allows the loading of ships of up to
350,000 DWT. In 2017, the terminal loaded 43.5 million metric tons of iron ore.

VLI also operates In ´acio Barbosa maritime terminal (TMIB), owned by Petrobras, in the Brazilian state of
Sergipe; Santos maritime terminal (TIPLAM), in the Brazilian state of S ˜ao Paulo, which is jointly owned by
VLI and Vale Fertilizantes; and Pier II in the Itaqui Port, which can accommodate vessels of up to 155,000
DWT and has a maximum loading rate of 4,500 tons per hour for pig iron and of 3,000 tons per hour for
grains.

Argentina and Uruguay

Until October 2017, Vale Log´ıstica Argentina S.A. (‘‘VLA’’) contracted third party services to operate two
terminals, located at Rosario port in the province of Santa F ´e and at San Nicolas port in the province of
Buenos Aires, and a transshipper located in the province of Santa F ´e. We handled 960 thousand metric
tons  of  iron  and  manganese  ore  through  these  ports  and  transshipper  in  2017,  which  came  from
Corumb ´a,  Brazil,  via  the  Paraguay  and  Paran ´a  rivers,  for  shipment  to  Brazilian,  Asian  and  European
markets.

To lower shipment costs and improve efficiency, we opted to transfer our Argentine port and maritime
terminal operations to Uruguay in 2017. VLA terminated the contracts with third party services to operate
the San Nicolas port and the Rosario port in June 2017 and in September 2017, respectively, and is no
longer operational.

Since  October  2017,  Vale  Log´ıstica  Uruguay  S.A.  (‘‘VLU’’)  contracts  third-party  services  to  operate  the
Corporaci ´on Navios port terminal in the Nueva Palmira Free Zone in Uruguay. The port terminal provides
facilities for the unloading, storing, weighing and loading of bulk materials from Corumb ´a, Brazil, by river
barge for transshipment to ocean-going vessels destined for Brazilian, Asian and European markets. In
2017, we handled 740 thousand metric tons of iron and manganese ore through the Corporaci ´on Navios
port in 2017.

Canada

Vale Newfoundland and Labrador Limited operates a port as part of our mining operation at Voisey’s Bay,
Labrador and a port as part of our processing operation at Long Harbour, Newfoundland. The port at
Voisey’s Bay is used for shipping nickel, copper and re-supply. The port at Long Harbour is used to receive

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nickel  concentrate  from  Voisey’s  Bay  along  with  goods  and  materials  required  for  the  Long  Harbour
operation.

Oman

Vale  Oman  Distribution  Center  LLC  operates  a  distribution  center  in  Liwa,  Sultanate  of  Oman.  The
maritime terminal has a large deep-water jetty, a 600-meter long platform connected to the shore by
means of a 700-meter long trestle, and is integrated with a storage yard that has throughput capacity to
handle 40 Mtpy of iron ore and iron ore pellets per year. The loading nominal capacity is 10,000 tons per
hour and the nominal unloading capacity is 9,000 tons per hour.

Indonesia

PTVI owns and operates two ports in Indonesia to support its nickel mining activities.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

The Balantang Special Port is located in Balantang Village, South Sulawesi, and has two types
of piers, with total capacity of 10,000 DWT, two barge slips for barges with capacity of up to
4,000 DWT each for dry bulk cargo, and a general cargo wharf for vessels of up to 2,000 DWT.

The  Tanjung  Mangkasa  Special  Port  is  located  in  Lampia  Village,  South  Sulawesi,  with
mooring  buoys  that  can  accommodate  vessels  with  capacity  of  up  to  20,000  DWT,  and  a
terminal  that  can  accommodate  fuel  tanker  vessels  with  capacity  of  up  to  5,000  DWT,
totaling capacity of 25,000 DWT.

New Caledonia

We own and operate a port in Prony Bay, Province Sud, New Caledonia. This port has three terminals,
including a passenger ferry terminal able to berth two ships up to 50m long, a dry bulk wharf where
vessels of up to 55,000 DWT can unload at a rate of 8,000 tons per day and a general cargo wharf where
vessels up to 200m long can berth. The general cargo wharf can move containers at a rate of seven per
hour and liquid fuels (LPG, HFO, diesel) at a rate of 350 cubic meters per hour, and break-bulk. The port’s
container yard, covering an area of approximately 13,000 square meters, can receive up to 1,000 units. A
bulk  storage  yard  is  linked  to  the  port  by  a  conveyor  and  has  a  storage  capacity  of  94,000  tons  of
limestone, 95,000 tons of sulfur, and 60,000 tons of coal.

Malaysia

Teluk Rubiah Maritime Terminal (‘‘TRMT’’). TRMT is located in the Malaysian state of Perak and has a pier
with two berths that allows the unloading of vessels of approximately 400,000 DWT of capacity and the
loading of vessels up to 220,000 DWT of capacity. In 2017, the terminal unloaded 22 million metric tons of
iron ore and loaded 22 million metric tons of iron ore.

4.1.3

Shipping

Maritime shipping of iron ore and pellets

In 2017, we shipped approximately 211 million metric tons of iron ore and pellets pursuant to transactions
in which we were responsible for freight (CFR or CIF basis), which corresponds to 61% of our total iron ore
and  pellets  sales.  We  transport  a  large  amount  of  our  iron  ore  products  from  Brazil  to  Asia  through
long-term contracts of affreightment with owners of very large ore carriers. These vessels reduce energy

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consumption and greenhouse emissions by carrying an increased amount of cargo in a single trip, offering
lower shipping costs. In 2017, approximately 48 million tons of iron ore products were transported by
these  vessels  under  long  term  contracts  of  affreightment  with  owners  of  very  large  ore  carriers  of
400,000 DWT.

We also own four capesize vessels with capacities ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 DWT.

We have changed our strategy with respect to maritime shipping. In the past, we owned and operated a
low-cost fleet of vessels to transport our cargoes from Brazil to our markets, especially in Asia. We now
focus on securing long-term shipping capacity and protecting against volatility in freight pricing through
long-term contracts of affreightment, without incurring the costs relating to building and owning the
vessels.  Since  2014,  we  have  sold  19  of  our  very  large  ore  carriers  of  400,000  DWT  for  an  aggregate
amount of US$1.940 billion. We sold the four remaining of these very large ore carriers in 2017.

Paran ´a—Paraguay waterway system

Through our subsidiary, Transbarge Navegaci ´on, and other chartered convoys, we transport iron ore and
manganese ores through the Paran ´a and Paraguay waterway system. The barges are unloaded in our
local customers’ terminals or in a contracted terminal in Uruguay, where we load the ore into ocean-going
vessels. We transported 2.5 million tons through the waterway system in 2017, including 800 thousand
tons  of  ore  through  our  local  customers’  terminals,  960  thousand  tons  of  ore  through  two  ports  in
Argentina and 740 thousand tons of ore through a port in Uruguay.

Tugboats

We manage a fleet of 16 owned tugboats. We directly operate nine tugboats in the ports of Vit ´oria and
Mangaratiba, in the Brazilian states of Esp´ırito Santo and Rio de Janeiro, respectively. We have a 50%
stake  in  a  consortium  that  operates  five  tugboats  in  the  port  of  S ˜ao  Lu´ıs  in  the  Brazilian  states  of
Maranh ˜ao.  One  additional  tugboat  is  freighted  to  and  operated  by  third  parties,  under  their
responsibility, in other ports in Brazil. We also own two tugboats in New Caledonia.

4.2

Energy

We have developed our energy assets based on the current and projected energy needs of our operations,
with the goal of reducing our energy costs and minimizing the risk of energy shortages.

Brazil

Energy management and efficient supply in Brazil are priorities for us, given the uncertainties associated
with changes in the regulatory environment and the risk of rising electricity prices. In 2017, our installed
capacity in Brazil was 1.4 GW, sourced from both directly and indirectly owned power plants. We use the
electricity produced by these plants for our internal consumption needs. We currently own direct stakes in
three  hydroelectric  power  plants  and  four  small  hydroelectric  power  plants  in  operation.  The
hydroelectric power plant of Candonga, the operations of which remain suspended since November 2015
as a result of the failure of the Samarco Dam, is located in the Southeastern region, Machadinho is located
in  the  Southern  region,  and  Estreito  is  located  in  the  Northern  region.  The  small  hydroelectric  power
plants of Ituer ˆe, Mello, Gl ´oria and Nova Maur´ıcio are located in the Southeastern region. Through our
55% participation in Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao de Energia S.A. (‘‘Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao’’), we also have indirect stakes in
the hydroelectric power plants of Igarapava, Porto Estrela, Funil, Candonga, Aimor ´es, Capim Branco I,
Capim Branco II, , located in the Southeastern Region and, additionally, we have indirect stake in Santo

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In ´acio, a Wind Complex located in Cear ´a State, which started operations in December 2017. Part of the
electricity generated by these assets is supplied to our operations through power purchase agreements
with Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao.

We also have a 4.59% indirect stake in Norte Energia S.A. (‘‘Norte Energia’’), the company established to
develop  and  operate  the  Belo  Monte  hydroelectric  plant  in  the  Brazilian  state  of  Par ´a,  which  started
operations in April 2016. Our participation in the Belo Monte project gives us the right to purchase 9% of
the electricity generated by the plant, which has already been contracted through a long-term power
purchase agreement entered into with Norte Energia.

We  also  produce,  through  our  subsidiary  Biopalma  da  Amaz ˆonia  S.A.  (‘‘Biopalma’’),  palm  oil  in  the
Brazilian state of Par ´a, with the objective to produce biodiesel in the future through an industrial plant to
be  installed  by  Biopalma.  This  biodiesel,  blended  with  regular  diesel  to  produce  diesel  B20  (20%
biodiesel), may be used to power our fleet of mining trucks, heavy machinery and locomotives in the
Northern System operations.

Canada

In 2017, our wholly owned and operated hydroelectric power plants in Sudbury generated 21% of the
electricity requirements of our Sudbury operations. The power plants consist of five separate generation
stations with an installed generator nameplate capacity of 55 MW. The output of the plants is limited by
water  availability,  as  well  as  by  constraints  imposed  by  a  water  management  plan  regulated  by  the
provincial government of Ontario. Over the course of 2017, average demand for electrical energy was 173
MW to all surface plants and mines in the Sudbury area.

In 2017, diesel generation provided 100% of the electric requirements of our Voisey’s Bay operations. We
have  six  diesel  generators  on-site,  with  output  ranging  from  12  to  14  MW,  in  order  to  meet  seasonal
demands.

Indonesia

Energy costs are a significant component of our nickel production costs for the processing of lateritic ore
at  our  PTVI  operations  in  Indonesia.  A  major  portion  of  PTVI’s  electric  furnace  power  requirements  is
supplied at a low cost by its three hydroelectric power plants on the Larona River: (i) the Larona plant,
which has an average generating capacity of 165 MW, (ii) the Balambano plant, which has an average
capacity of 110 MW and (iii) the Karebbe plant, with 90 MW of average generating capacity. These plants
help reduce production costs by substituting oil used for power generation with hydroelectric  power,
reduce  CO2  emissions  by  replacing  non-renewable  power  generation,  and  enable  us  to  increase  our
current nickel production capacity in Indonesia.

5.

Other investments

Below is a list of our main investments:

(cid:127)

Pelletizing plants. We have a 25% stake in two iron ore pelletizing plants in China, Zhuhai
YPM and Anyang. The remaining stake in Zhuhai YPM is owned by Zhuhai Yueyufeng Iron
and Steel Co. Ltd. and Halswell Enterprises Limited, and the remaining stake in Anyang is
owned by Anyang Iron & Steel Co., Ltd.

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(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Coal operations. We have a 25% stake in Longyu (in the Henan province) coal operations in
China. Longyu produces metallurgical and thermal coal and other related products, and the
remaining  interests  are  owned  by  Yongmei  Group  Co.,  Ltd.  (former  Yongcheng  Coal  &
Electricity (Group) Co. Ltd.), Shanghai Baosteel International Economic & Trading Co., Ltd.
and other minority shareholders.

Nickel refinery. We have a 25% indirect stake in Korea Nickel Corporation, which operates a
nickel  refinery  in  South  Korea.  The  remaining  stake  is  held  by  Korea  Zinc  Co.,  Ltd,
Posteel  Co.,  Ltd.,  Young  Poong  Co.,  Ltd.,  Pohang  Technology  College  and  a  number  of
individual investors. Korea Nickel Corporation produces finished nickel for the stainless steel
industry using intermediate products from our Matsuzaka and New Caledonia operations.

Steel producers. We own a 50% stake in California Steel Industries, Inc. (‘‘CSI’’), a producer of
flat-rolled  steel  and  pipe  products  located  in  California,  United  States.  The  remainder  is
owned by JFE Steel. CSI’s annual production capacity is approximately 2.8 million metric tons
of flat and pipe products. We also own a 50% stake in Companhia Sider ´urgica do Pec ´em
(‘‘CSP’’),  an  integrated  steel  slab  plant  in  the  Brazilian  state  of  Cear ´a  in  partnership  with
Dongkuk Steel Mill Co. and Posco, two major steel producers in South Korea. CSP’s annual
production capacity is 3.0 million metric tons.

(cid:127)

Bauxite. We own a 40% stake in Minera¸c ˜ao Rio do Norte S.A. (‘‘MRN’’), a bauxite mining
business located in Brazil.

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RESERVES

PRESENTATION OF INFORMATION CONCERNING RESERVES

The estimates of proven and probable ore reserves at our mines and projects and the estimates of mine
life  included  in  this  annual  report  have  been  prepared  by  our  staff  of  experienced  geologists  and
engineers, unless otherwise stated, and in accordance with the technical definitions established by the
SEC. Under the SEC’s Industry Guide 7:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Reserves are the part of a mineral deposit that could be economically and legally extracted
or produced at the time of the reserve determination.

Proven (measured) reserves are reserves for which (a) quantity is computed from dimensions
revealed in outcrops, trenches, workings or drill holes; grade and/or quality are computed
from  the  results  of  detailed  sampling;  and  (b)  the  sites  for  inspection,  sampling  and
measurement are spaced so closely and the geologic character is so well defined that size,
shape, depth and mineral content of reserves are well-established.

Probable (indicated) reserves are reserves for which quantity and grade and/or quality are
computed from information similar to that used for proven (measured) reserves, but the sites
for  inspection,  sampling  and  measurement  are  farther  apart  or  are  otherwise  less
adequately  spaced.  The  degree  of  assurance,  although  lower  than  that  for  proven
(measured) reserves, is high enough to assume continuity between points of observation.

We periodically revise our reserve estimates when we have new geological data, economic assumptions or
mining plans. During 2017, we performed an analysis of our reserve estimates for certain projects and
operations,  which  is  reflected  in  new  estimates  as  of  December  31,  2017.  Reserve  estimates  for  each
operation assume that we either have or expect to obtain all of the necessary rights and permits to mine,
extract and process mineral reserves at each mine. For some of our operations, the projected exhaustion
date includes stockpile reclamation. Where we own less than 100% of the operation, reserve estimates
have  not  been  adjusted  to  reflect  our  proportional  ownership  interest.  Certain  figures  in  the  tables,
discussions  and  notes  have  been  rounded.  For  a  description  of  risks  relating  to  reserves  and  reserve
estimates, see Risk factors.

Our reserve estimates are based on certain assumptions about future prices. We have determined that our
reported reserves could be economically produced if prices for the products identified in the following

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table were equal to the three-year average historical prices through December 31, 2017. For this purpose,
we used the three-year historical average prices set forth in the following table.

Commodity

Iron ore:

Three-year average historical price

Pricing source

Vale(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

US$61.7 per dry metric ton

Average Platts IODEX (62% Fe CFR
China)

Coal:(2)

Metallurgical – Moatize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thermal – Moatize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

US$139.6 per metric ton
US$68.87 per metric ton

Platts PHCC FOB
Richards Bay FOB – RB1

Base metals:

Nickel(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Nickel and copper byproducts:

Platinum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Palladium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cobalt(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Manganese ore(4):

US$10,619 per ton
US$5,512 per ton

US$997 per oz
US$725 per oz
US$1,222 per oz
US$36,737 per ton

LME Ni
LME Cu

Average realized price
Average realized price
Average realized price
99.3% low cobalt metal (source: Metal
Bulletin)

Manganese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

US$4.5 per dry metric ton unit

Average CRU (44% Mn CFR China basis)

(1)

The economic assessment of our iron ore reserves is based on the average of 62% Fe iron ore prices, as adjusted to reflect the
effects of freight, moisture and the quality premium for our iron ore.

(2) As received basis (8% moisture).
(3)

Premiums (or discounts) are applied to the nickel and cobalt spot prices at certain operations to derive realized prices. These
premiums (or discounts) are based on product form, long-term contracts, packaging and market conditions.
The economic assessment of our manganese ore reserves is based on the average CRU prices, adjusted to reflect the effects of
freight, moisture and the quality premium for our manganese ore prices on a CFR China basis.

(4)

IRON ORE RESERVES

The following tables set forth our iron ore reserves and other information about our iron ore mines. Our
reserve table reflects our production and operational plans, which are based on the facilities (consisting of
both mines and processing plants) within each system, rather than the individual mines.

Because our strategic guidelines remain unchanged from 2016, variations in iron ore reserves from 2016
to 2017 predominantly reflect depletion through mine production.

We periodically review the economic viability of our iron ore reserves in light of changes in the iron ore
industry.  Although  in  the  production  stage,  the  Urucum  and  Corumb ´a  mines’  reserves  are  not

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economically viable based on expected long-term prices. Since 2015 we are not reporting reserves at those
facilities.

Proven – 2017

Probable – 2017

Total – 2017

Total – 2016

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Iron ore reserves(1)

Southeastern System(2)

Itabira(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minas Centrais(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mariana(5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

738.6
149.9
496.4

Total Southeastern System . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,384.8

Southern System(6)

Minas Itabirito(7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vargem Grande(8) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Paraopeba(9) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total Southern System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

454.0
104.0
108.5

666.6

Northern System(10)

Serra Norte(11) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Serra Sul(12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Serra Leste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

557.4
1,233.3
5.0

Total Northern System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,795.6

Total Vale Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,847.0

45.5
48.5
45.3

45.8

55.0
48.8
62.1

55.2

66.6
65.6
66.2

65.9

56.8

181.6
626.7
3,604.0

4,412.3

3,204.2
1,358.5
200.0

4,762.7

1,611.8
2,962.0
253.2

4,827.0

14,001.9

45.7
56.6
44.2

46.0

43.5
48.3
59.4

45.6

65.8
65.4
65.4

65.5

52.6

920.2
776.5
4,100.4

5,797.1

3,658.2
1,462.5
308.5

5,429.2

2,169.2
4,195.3
258.1

6,622.6

17,848.9

45.6
55.1
44.3

45.9

45.0
48.3
60.4

46.7

66.0
65.5
65.4

65.6

53.5

1,010.3
849.4
4,138.8

5,998.5

3,746.8
1,543.0
330.7

5,620.6

2,337.4
4,224.6
260.4

6,822.5

18,441.5

45.2
55.0
44.3

46.0

45.1
48.2
61.0

46.9

66.0
65.6
65.4

65.7

53.6

(1)

Tonnage is stated in millions of metric tons of wet run-of-mine, based on the following moisture contents: Itabira (1.7%); Minas
Centrais (5.9%); Mariana (3.9%); Minas Itabirito (4.3%); Vargem Grande (3.9%); Paraopeba (5.2%); Serra Norte (6.4%); Serra Sul
(4.6%); Serra Leste (3.6%).

(2) Approximate drill hole spacing used to classify the Southeastern System’s reserves was: 100m x 100m for proven reserves and
200m x 200m for probable reserves. Average product recovery (tonnage basis) of the iron ore reserves is: 53% for Itabira, 78% for
Minas Centrais and 62% for Mariana.
Itabira integrated operation includes Concei¸c ˜ao and Minas do Meio mines.

(3)
(4) Minas  Centrais’  integrated  operations  is  represented  by  Brucutu  mine  operation  and  by  Apolo  deposit,  not  currently  in

production.  ´Agua Limpa is no longer operating and therefore is not included in the disclosure anymore.

(5) Mariana’s integrated operations include the Alegria, F ´abrica Nova and Fazend ˜ao mines and the Capanema and Conta Hist ´oria

projects.

(6) Approximate  drill  hole  spacing  used  to  classify  the  Southern  System’s  reserves  was:  100m  x  100m  for  proven  reserves  and
200m x 200m for probable reserves. Average product recovery (tonnage basis) of the iron ore reserves is: 65% for Minas Itabirito,
58% for Vargem Grande and 100% for Paraopeba.

(7) Minas Itabirito’s integrated operations include the Sapecado, Galinheiro, Jo ˜ao Pereira and Segredo mines.
Vargem Grande’s integrated operations include the Tamandu ´a, Capit ˜ao do Mato and Ab ´oboras mines.
(8)
Paraopeba’s integrated operations include the Jangada, C ´orrego do Feij ˜ao, Mar Azul and Cap ˜ao Xavier mines. Additionally, they
(9)
include Capim Branco deposit, not currently in operation.

(10) Approximate  drill  hole  spacing  used  to  classify  the  Northern  System’s  reserves  was:  150m  x  100m  for  proven  reserves  and
300m x 200m for probable reserves, except Serra Leste which is 100m x 100m for proven reserves and 200m x 200m for probable
reserves. Average product recovery (tonnage basis) of the iron ore reserves is: 100% for Serra Norte, 100% for Serra Leste and
100% for Serra Sul.

(11) Serra Norte’s integrated operations include the N4W, N4E and N5 mines. Additionally, they include N1, N2 and N3 deposits, not

currently in operation.

(12) Serra Sul’s integrated operations include the S11C and S11D deposits.

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The mine exhaustion schedule has been adjusted due to our new production plan and our revision of
project capacity.

Iron ore integrated operations

Type

Operating since

Projected
exhaustion date(1)

Vale interest

Southeastern System

Itabira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minas Centrais . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mariana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Southern System

Minas Itabirito . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vargem Grande . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Paraopeba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Northern System

Serra Norte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Serra Sul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Serra Leste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Open pit
Open pit

Open pit
Open pit
Open pit

Open pit
Open pit
Open pit

1957
1994
1976

1942
1993
2001

1984
2016
2014

2028
2056
2105

2118
2054
2034

2040
2046
2060

(%)

100.0
100.0
100.0

100.0
100.0
100.0

100.0
100.0
100.0

(1)

Indicates the life-of-mine for the operating mine with the longest projected exhaustion date in the complex.

MANGANESE ORE RESERVES

The  following  tables  set  forth  manganese  ore  reserves  and  other  information  about  our  mines.  The
variation in the Azul mine’s ore reserves from 2016 to 2017 mainly reflects a resource model update and
new economic assumptions for mineral reserves, as well as a 4.5 Mt reduction in tailings dam mineral
reserves due to new technical and economic assumptions.

Our reserves information for Urucum and Morro da Mina are currently being reviewed to consider new
geological  information  and  new  reserve  assumptions.  As  this  revision  is  ongoing,  we  disclose  current
reserves for these mines by depletion.

Proven – 2017

Probable – 2017

Total – 2017

Total – 2016

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Manganese ore reserves(1)(2)

Azul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Urucum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Morro da Mina . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11.0
7.9
5.8

24.8

26.4
46.4
30.7

33.8

4.0
1.3
2.7

8.0

27.2
47.0
29.7

31.3

15.0
9.3
8.5

32.7

26.6
46.5
30.4

33.2

38.0
10.1
8.6

56.6

28.4
46.3
30.6

31.9

(1) Ore reserves as of December 31th, 2017 are reported as wet million metric tons and dry manganese grade, based on the following

moisture contents: Azul (18.0%); Urucum (4.2%) and Morro da Mina (3.4%).

(2) Approximate drill hole spacing used to classify the reserves was: 100m x 100m for proven reserves and 200m x 200m for probable
reserves. Average product recovery (tonnage basis) of the manganese reserves are: Azul (40%); Urucum (82%) and Morro da Mina
(70%).

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The mine exhaustion schedule has been adjusted to reflect our new production plan.

Azul. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Urucum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Morro da Mina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Underground
Open pit

1985
1976
1902

2024
2027
2050

(%)
100.0
100.0
100.0

Manganese ore mines

Type

Operating since

Projected
exhaustion date

Vale interest

COAL RESERVES

Our  coal  reserve  estimates  have  been  provided  on  an  in-place  material  basis  after  adjustments  for
depletion through mine production, anticipated mining losses and dilution. Marketable reserves include
adjustments  for  losses  associated  with  beneficiation  of  raw  coal  mined  to  meet  saleable  product
requirements.

The decrease in the Moatize’s coal reserves reported in 2017, compared to 2016, reflects the results of an
internal  review  of  Moatize’s  reserves.  Over  the  past  18  months,  we  have  undertaken  an  extensive
exploration program to better understand the characteristics of the Moatize coal deposit. New geological
information and our experience from coal operations in Moatize resulted in revisions to resource and
reserve estimates, and subsequently realignments in our exploration program.

We continue our exploration program in Moatize, targeting areas within the current mine plan and the
extension of it, aiming to aggregate more reserves in the future.

Coal ore reserves(1)

ROM(2)

Coal type

Proven – Probable –

2017

2017

Total – 2017

Total – 2016

2017

2016

Marketable reserves(3)

Tonnage

Tonnage

CV

Tonnage

CV

Tonnage

Tonnage

Moatize . . . . . . Metallurgical & thermal

206.7

815.8 1,022.5 26.0 (thermal) 1,395.6 28.3 (thermal)

415.0

499.6

(1)

(2)

(3)

The reserves stated above by deposit are on a 100% shareholding basis. Vale’s ownership interest in accordance with the table
below should be used to calculate the portion of reserves directly attributable to Vale.
Tonnage is stated in millions of metric tons and is now reported on an in situ 4.0% moisture basis. Calorific Value (CV) for thermal
coal is stated as the Gross Calorific Value (Mj/Kg) on air-dried basis.
Tonnage is stated in millions of metric tons.

Coal mines

Type

Operating since

Projected
exhaustion date

Vale interest

Moatize(1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit

2011

2039(2)

(%)
80.75

(1)
(2)

Vale’s stake in Moatize decreased after completion of the transaction with Mitsui.
The mine exhaustion date was adjusted to reflect the current declared coal reserves.

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NICKEL ORE RESERVES

Our nickel mineral reserve estimates are of in-place material after adjustments for depletion and mining
losses (or screening and drying in the case of PTVI) and recoveries, with no adjustments made for metal
losses due to processing.

Proven – 2017

Probable – 2017

Total – 2017

Total – 2016

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Nickel ore reserves(1)

Canada

Sudbury . . . .
Thompson . .
Voisey’s Bay

Indonesia

PTVI. . . . . . . . .

New

Caledonia
VNC . . . . . . . . .

Brazil

On¸ca Puma .

Total . . . . . . . . . .

23.7
–
17.0

82.7

–

61.3

184.8

1.67
–
2.23

1.80

–

1.64

1.77

41.2
–
15.4

12.4

–

45.1

114.1

1.29
–
2.02

1.73

–

1.38

1.47

64.9
–
32.4

95.1

–

106.5

298.9

1.43
–
2.13

1.79

–

1.53

1.66

71.9
–
33.8

110.9

–

108.0

324.5

1.40
–
2.20

1.78

–

1.53

1.66

(1)

Tonnage is stated in millions of dry metric tons. Grade is % of nickel.

Recovery
range

(%)

75 – 85
85 – 90
80 – 90

85 – 90

85 – 90

In  Canada,  our  Sudbury  operation’s  mineral  reserves  decreased  in  2017  due  to  depletion,  and  the
reclassification of mineral reserves at the Stobie mine to resources or to exploration targets, as a result of
the  Stobie  mine  being  put  into  care  and  maintenance.  The  Voisey’s  Bay  operations  mineral  reserves
decreased due to depletion. The mineral reserves at the PTVI operations decreased due to depletion, pit
redesigns,  re-evaluations,  and  a  reclassification  of  mineral  reserves  to  mineral  resources.  The  mineral
reserves at On¸ca Puma decreased due to depletion .

We are not reporting the mineral reserves of VNC and Thompson as of December 31, 2017, because the
mineral reserves for our operations in New Caledonia and Thompson would not be economically viable at
the three-year historical average price, due to the decline in nickel prices in the past three years. However,
based on our expectations about future prices, our operations in New Caledonia and Thompson continue
to be economically viable. VNC and Thompson continue to operate and are currently conducting studies
to identify measures to reduce their costs of production.

Nickel ore mines

Type

Operating since

Projected
exhaustion date

Vale interest

Canada

Sudbury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voisey’s Bay(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground
Underground
Open pit/
Underground

Indonesia

PTVI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit

New Caledonia

VNC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit

Brazil

On¸ca Puma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit

1885
1961
2005

1977

2011

2011

(1)

Voisey’s Bay will transition from an open pit mine to an underground mine.

2043
–
2033

2035

–

2064

(%)

100.0
100.0
100.0

58.7

95.0

100.0

72
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12APR201813380467

Reserves

COPPER ORE RESERVES

Our copper mineral reserve estimates are of in-place material after adjustments for depletion and mining
losses and recoveries, with no adjustments made for metal losses due to processing.

Proven – 2017

Probable – 2017

Total – 2017

Total – 2016

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Copper ore reserves(1)

Canada

Sudbury . . . . . . . .
Voisey’s Bay . . . .

Brazil

Sossego . . . . . . . .
Salobo . . . . . . . . .

Zambia

Lubambe(2) . . . .

23.7
17.0

110.7
644.1

2.35
1.03

0.68
0.64

41.2
15.4

9.4
549.3

1.49
0.89

0.66
0.57

64.9
32.4

120.1
1,193.4

1.80
0.96

0.68
0.61

71.9
33.8

110.9
1,178.3

45.4

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

795.6

0.70

615.2

0.64

1,410.8

0.68

1,440.3

1.71
1.02

0.65
0.63

2.18

0.75

Recovery
range

(%)

90 – 95
90 – 95

90 – 95
80 – 90

85 – 90

(1)
(2)

Tonnage is stated in millions of dry metric tons. Grade is % of copper.
Vale sold its stake in the Lubambe mine in December 2017.

In Canada, our Sudbury operation’s mineral reserves decreased in 2017 due to depletion, reclassification
of mineral reserves at the Stobie mine to mineral resources or exploration targets as a result of the Stobie
mine being put into care and maintenance. The Voisey’s Bay operations mineral reserves decreased due to
mining depletion. In Brazil, the Sossego operations mineral reserves increased due to stockpile additions
and the addition of new mineral reserves at the bottom of the Sequeirinho and Sossego pits, the result of
a  review  of  the  mineral  resource  block  model  and  re-design  on  the  final  pit  configuration,  offset  by
depletion.  The  mineral  reserve  estimates  at  the  Salobo  operation  increased  due  to  depletion  and
re-evaluation  offset  by  the  addition  of  new  mineral  reserves  upgraded  from  mineral  resource  and
stockpile additions.

Type

Operating since

Projected exhaustion
date

Vale interest

Copper ore mines

Canada

Sudbury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voisey’s Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground
Open pit/Underground

Brazil

Sossego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Salobo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Open pit

Zambia

Lubambe(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground

1885
2005

2004
2012

2013

(1)

Vale sold its stake in the Lubambe mine in December 2017.

2043
2033

2027
2067

2038

(%)

100.0
100.0

100.0
100.0

0.0

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Reserves

PGMS AND OTHER PRECIOUS METALS RESERVES

We expect to recover significant quantities of precious metals as byproducts of our Sudbury, Sossego and
Salobo operations. Our mineral reserve estimates are of in-place material after adjustments for depletion
and mining losses and recoveries, with no adjustments made for metal losses due to processing.

Proven – 2017

Probable – 2017

Total – 2017

Total – 2016

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Precious metals reserves(1)

Canada

Sudbury

Platinum . . . . .
Palladium . . . .
Gold . . . . . . . . .

23.7
23.7
23.7

Brazil

Sossego

Gold . . . . . . . . .

110.7

Salobo

Gold . . . . . . . . .

Total Pt + Pd(2) . .

Total Gold . . . . . . . .

644.1

23.7

778.6

1.3
1.5
0.5

0.2

0.4

2.8

0.3

41.2
41.2
41.2

9.4

549.3

41.2

599.8

1.2
1.4
0.5

0.2

0.3

2.6

0.3

64.9
64.9
64.9

120.1

1,193.4

64.9

1,378.4

1.2
1.4
0.5

0.2

0.3

2.6

0.3

71.9
71.9
71.9

110.9

1,178.3

71.9

1,361.1

1.2
1.3
0.4

0.2

0.4

2.5

0.3

Recovery
range

(%)

80 – 90
80 – 90
80 – 90

75 – 80

60 – 70

(1)
(2)

Tonnage is stated in millions of dry metric tons. Grade is grams per dry metric ton.
Pt+Pd is the sum of Platinum and Palladium grades.

In  Sudbury  our  mineral  reserve  estimates  for  platinum,  palladium  and  gold  decreased  for  the  same
reasons  discussed  above  in  connection  with  the  nickel  mineral  reserves.  In  Brazil,  mineral  reserve
estimates for gold changed for the same reasons discussed above in connection with the copper mineral
reserves.

Type

Operating since

Projected exhaustion
date

Vale interest

Precious metals mines

Canada

Sudbury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground

Brazil

Sossego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Salobo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open pit
Open pit

1885

2004
2012

2043

2027
2067

(%)

100.0

100.0
100.0

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Reserves

COBALT ORE RESERVES

We  expect  to  recover  significant  quantities  of  cobalt  as  a  byproduct  of  our  Sudbury  and  Voisey’s  Bay
operations.  Our  cobalt  reserve  estimates  are  of  in-place  material  after  adjustments  for  depletion  and
mining losses, with no adjustments for metal losses due to processing.

Proven – 2017

Probable – 2017

Total – 2017

Total – 2016

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Tonnage

Grade

Cobalt ore reserves(1)

Canada

Sudbury . . . . . . . .
Voisey’s Bay . . . .

New Caledonia

VNC . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . .

23.7
17.0

–

40.7

0.05
0.13

–

0.08

41.2
15.4

–

56.6

0.04
0.13

–

0.06

64.9
32.4

–

97.3

0.04
0.13

–

0.07

71.9
33.8

–

105.7

0.04
0.13

–

0.07

(1)

Tonnage is stated in millions of metric tons. Grade is % of cobalt.

Recovery
range

(%)

20 – 40
70 – 80

Our cobalt reserve estimates decreased in 2017 for the same reasons discussed above in connection with
the nickel mineral reserves.

Type

Operating since

Projected exhaustion
date

Vale interest

Cobalt ore mines

Canada

Sudbury. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voisey’s Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Caledonia VNC. . . . . . . . . . . .

Underground
Open pit/ Underground
Open pit

1885
2005
2011

2043
2033
–

(%)

100.0
100.0
95.0

75
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12APR201813380467

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

We  have  an  extensive  program  of  investments  in  the  organic  growth  of  our  businesses.  The  figures
discussed in this section are for project execution and sustaining existing operations and replacement
projects.

The 2018 investment budget approved by our Board of Directors is US$972 million for project execution,
reflecting a 39.9% decrease compared to the 2017 investment budget, and US$2.865 billion for sustaining
existing operations and replacement projects, reflecting a 28.4% increase compared to 2017. Most of the
capital expenditures budget for project execution will be invested in Brazil (96.9%).

2016 expenditures(1)

2017 expenditures(1)

2018 budget

(US$ million)

(US$ million)

(US$ million)

(% of total)

Project execution (construction in

progress) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments to sustain existing operations
and replacement projects (property,
plant and equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

US$

3,179

2,302

5,482

1,617

2,231

US$

3,848

US$

972

25.3%

2,865

3,837

74.7%

100%

(1)

Executed capital expenditures comprise the sum of cash outflows.

We are developing a focused organic growth portfolio with fewer projects, but higher expected rates of
return.  Our  main  initiative,  the  S11D  project,  accounts  for  81.6%  of  the  US$972  million  budgeted  for
project execution in 2018.

The  following  table  sets  forth  total  expenditures  in  2017  for  our  main  investment  projects  and
expenditures budgeted for those projects in 2018, together with estimated total expenditures for each
project and the actual or estimated start-up date of each project as of December 31, 2017.

Business area

Main projects(1)

Actual or
estimated
start-up

Executed CAPEX

Expected CAPEX

2017(2)

Total
executed(3)

2018(4)

Total
expected(5)

Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CLN S11D(6)

1H14 to 2H19

914

(US$ million)
6,576

647

7,850

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)

Projects approved by our Board of Directors.
Executed capital expenditures comprise the sum of cash outflows.
Total executed CAPEX through December 31, 2017, including capital expenditures in prior periods.
Figure presented corresponds to the amount approved in the US$3.837 billion investment budget.
Estimated total capital expenditure cost for each project, including capital expenditures in prior periods. Total expected CAPEX
includes  expenses,  in  line  with  the  budget  approved  by  our  Board  of  Directors,  while  these  expenses  are  not  included  in  the
expected CAPEX for the year or in the total executed CAPEX figures.

(6) Original expected CAPEX for CLN S11D was US$11.582 billion.

The largest ongoing capital expenditure project is the increase in the logistics capacity of the Northern
System to support the S11D project, including the expansion of approximately 570 km of railway (505 km
of which we have already built), construction of a railway spur of 101 km, acquisition of wagons and
locomotives  and  port  expansion  (onshore  and  offshore  expansions  at  Ponta  da  Madeira  maritime
terminal). This project is expected to increase EFC’s nominal logistics capacity to approximately 230 Mtpy.
The  duplication  of  the  railway  achieved  80%  of  physical  progress  and  the  railway  spur  was  totally
completed. The port offshore started up in the last quarter of 2016. The project is 88% complete, with
executed  capital  expenditures  (total  cash  outflows)  of  US$6.576  billion.  The  start-up  is  expected  to
continue through the second half of 2019.

The mine expansion project at Voisey’s Bay, which encompasses the construction of an underground mine to
compensate for gradual depletion of our open pit mine, is currently being reassessed. As a result, the Voisey’s
Bay production plan was reduced in order to extend the life of the mine while the project is being reassessed.

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REGULATORY MATTERS

We are subject to a wide range of governmental regulation in all the jurisdictions in which we operate
worldwide. The following discussion summarizes the kinds of regulation that have the most significant
impact on our operations.

MINING RIGHTS AND REGULATION OF MINING ACTIVITIES

Mining and mineral processing are subject to extensive regulation. In order to conduct these activities, we
are required to obtain and maintain some form of governmental or private permits, which may include
concessions,  licenses,  claims,  tenements,  leases  or  permits  (all  of  which  we  refer  to  below  as
‘‘concessions’’).  The  legal  and  regulatory  regime  applicable  to  the  mining  industry  and  governing
concessions differs among jurisdictions, often in important ways. In most jurisdictions, including Brazil,
mineral resources belong to the State and may only be exploited pursuant to a governmental concession.
In other jurisdictions, such as Ontario in Canada, a substantial part of our mining operations is conducted
pursuant  to  mining  rights  we  own  (private  permits).  Government  agencies  are  typically  in  charge  of
granting mining concessions and monitoring compliance with mining law and regulations.

The  table  below  summarizes  our  principal  concessions  and  other  similar  rights  for  our  continuing
operations.  It  does  not  include  information  with  respect  to  our  fertilizer  business  (discontinued
operations).

Location

Mining title

Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mining concessions (including under applications)

Canada(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mining concessions (terminology varies among

Indonesia(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

New Caledonia(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mozambique(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

provinces)

Contract of work

Mining leases

Mining concessions

Mining concessions

Approximate area covered
(in hectares)

Expiration date

597,249

219,139

118,017

4,559

21,077

23,780

Indefinite

2017 – 2036

2025

2041

2022 – 2051

2032

(1)

(2)
(3)

(4)

The expiration date of our leases in Sudbury is subject to current renewal applications. The approval process for these applications,
submitted in 2016 and 2017, is in progress. All conditions required for the renewal of these leases were fulfilled. This process
usually takes a number of years and we may continue to operate while the approval process is ongoing.
Entitled to two 10-year extensions, subject to approval of the Indonesian government.
VNC has requested renewal of some concessions that were scheduled to expire before 2018. We may continue to operate while the
approval process is ongoing.
Entitled to 25-year extensions, subject to approval by the Mozambique government.

In addition to the concessions listed above, we have exploration licenses and exploration applications
covering 3.8 million hectares in Brazil and 1.3 million hectares in other countries.

There  are  several  proposed  or  recently  adopted  changes  in  mining  legislation  and  regulations  in  the
jurisdictions where we have operations that could materially affect us.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Brazil.  In  2017,  new  legislative  and  regulatory  frameworks  for  the  mining  industry  were
enacted, providing for changes in the rates and basis for calculation of the royalties (CFEM—
Compensa¸c ˜ao Financeira pela Explora¸c ˜ao de Recursos Minerais) applicable to various mining
products, the creation of a new governmental agency, the National Mining Agency (‘‘ANM’’),
to regulate the mining industry, collect royalties and impose sanctions for nonpayment.

New Caledonia. In 2014, the local authorities of New Caledonia created a protected wetland
area, which covers 27% of the surface area of the total VNC tenements and could affect

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12APR201813380467

Regulatory Matters

potential mining activities. These restrictions are not expected to impact on our disclosed
reserves.

ROYALTIES AND OTHER TAXES ON MINING ACTIVITIES

We are required in many jurisdictions to pay royalties or taxes on our revenues or profits from mineral
extractions  and  sales.  These  payments  are  an  important  element  of  the  economic  performance  of  a
mining operation. The following royalties and taxes apply in some of the jurisdictions in which we have
our largest operations:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Brazil. We are required to pay a royalty known as the CFEM (Compensa¸c ˜ao Financeira pela
Explora¸c ˜ao de Recursos Minerais) on the revenues from the sale of minerals we extract, net
of taxes, insurance costs and costs of transportation. A statute approved in 2017 changed the
basis for calculation of the CFEM, as follows: (i) for domestic sales, the basis for calculation of
CFEM is the revenue from sales, net of sales taxes and contributions; (ii) for exports, the basis
for calculation of CFEM is the amount equivalent to the transfer pricing in federal income tax
legislation; and (iii) for a company’s internal mineral consumption, the basis for calculation
of CFEM is the value equivalent to the current price of the ore in the domestic market, the
international  markets  or  a  reference  value,  as  to  be  determined  by  the  ANM.  As  of
November 2017, new CFEM rates are: 3.5% for iron ore; 2% for copper, nickel, fertilizers and
other materials; 3% for bauxite, potash and manganese ore; and 1.5% for gold.

Brazilian  states.  Several  Brazilian  states  impose  a  tax  on  mineral  production  (Taxa  de
Fiscaliza¸c ˜ao de Recursos Minerais—TFRM), which is assessed at rates ranging from R$0.50 to
R$3.364 per metric ton of minerals produced in or transferred from the state.

Canada. The Canadian provinces in which we operate charge us a tax on profits from mining
operations.  Profit  from  mining  operations  is  generally  determined  by  reference  to  gross
revenue  from  the  sale  of  mine  output  and  deducting  certain  costs,  such  as  mining  and
processing costs and investment in processing assets. The statutory mining tax rates are 10%
in Ontario; with graduated rates up to 17% in Manitoba; and a combined mining and royalty
tax  rate  of  16%  in  Newfoundland  and  Labrador.  The  mining  tax  paid  is  deductible  for
corporate income tax purposes.

(cid:127) Mozambique. Pursuant to a mining agreement signed in June 2007 with the Government of
the  Republic  of  Mozambique  requires  that  we  pay  a  royalty  known  as  the  IPM  (Imposto
sobre a Produ¸c ˜ao Mineira) on revenues from sales of extracted coal, net of insurance and
transportation  costs  incurred  before  sales.  The  tax  rate  on  coal  mining  activity  in
Mozambique is currently 3%.

(cid:127)

Indonesia. Our subsidiary PTVI pays mining royalties of 2% on its nickel matte revenues when
LME nickel prices are below US$21,000 per metric ton and 3% of its nickel matte revenues
when LME nickel prices are above or equal to US$21,000 per metric ton.

ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS

We are also subject to environmental regulations that apply to the specific types of mining and processing
activities  we  conduct.  We  are  required  to  obtain  approvals,  licenses,  permits  or  authorizations  from
governmental authorities to operate. In most jurisdictions, the development of new facilities requires us
to submit environmental and social impacts statements for approval and often to make investments to

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12APR201813380467

Regulatory Matters

mitigate environmental and social impacts, and we must operate our facilities in compliance with the
terms of the approvals, licenses, permits or authorizations.

We  are  taking  several  steps  to  improve  the  efficiency  of  the  licensing  process,  including  stronger
integration  of  our  environmental  and  project  development  teams,  funding  research  into  new  and
alternative technologies to reduce environmental and social impacts, use and continuous improvement of
a Best Practices Guide for Environmental Licensing and the Environment, the deployment of highly-skilled
specialist  teams,  closer  interaction  with  environmental  regulators  and  the  creation  of  an  executive
committee to expedite internal decisions regarding licensing.

Environmental regulations affecting our operations relate, among other matters, to emissions into the air,
soil and water; recycling and waste management; protection and preservation of forests, coastlines, caves,
cultural heritage sites, watersheds and other features of the ecosystem; water use; financial provisions
and closure plans needed since the mining license; climate change and decommissioning and reclamation.
Environmental  legislation  is  becoming  stricter  worldwide,  which  could  lead  to  greater  costs  for
environmental compliance. In particular, we expect heightened attention from various governments to
reducing greenhouse gas emissions as a result of concern over climate change, especially following the
entry into force of the Paris Agreement in late 2016.

There are several examples of environmental regulation and compliance initiatives that could affect our
operations.  For  instance,  under  applicable  Brazilian  regulations  for  the  protection  of  caves,  we  are
required  to  conduct  extensive  technical  studies  and  negotiate  compensatory  measures  with  Brazilian
environmental regulators in order to continue to operate in certain sites. In certain of our iron ore mining
operations or projects, we may be required to limit or modify our mining plans or to incur additional costs
to preserve caves or to compensate for the impact on them, with potential consequences for production
volumes,  costs  or  reserves  in  our  iron  ore  business.  Also,  a  Brazilian  regulation  for  the  protection  of
indigenous people, which was enacted in 2011 and revised in 2015, requires us to conduct specific studies
of  impact  and  sponsor  mitigation  programs  in  connection  with  operations  and  projects  close  to
indigenous people’s lands. Also, in 2017, the federal government created new rules for the payment of
environmental compensation for activities subjected to environmental assessment.

REGULATION OF OTHER ACTIVITIES

In addition to mining and environmental regulation, we are subject to comprehensive regulatory regimes
for some of our other activities, including rail transport, port operations and electricity generation. We
are  also  subject  to  more  general  legislation  on  workers’  health  and  safety,  safety  and  support  of
communities  near  mines,  and  other  matters.  The  following  descriptions  relate  to  some  of  the  other
regulatory regimes applicable to our operations:

(cid:127)

Brazilian railway regulation. Our Brazilian railroad business operates pursuant to concession
contracts granted by the federal government, and our railroad concessions are subject to
regulation  and  supervision  by  the  Brazilian  Ministry  of  Transportation,  Ports  and  Civil
Aviation and the regulatory agency for ground transportation (ANTT). The concessions for
EFC and EFVM expire in 2027 and may be renewed at the federal government’s discretion.
VLI  has  also  been  awarded  a  subconcession  contract  for  commercial  operation  of  a
720-kilometer segment of the FNS railroad in Brazil, which expires in 2037, and FCA and MRS
concessions  expire  in  2026.  Rail  transportation  prices  can  be  negotiated  directly  with  the
users  of  such  services,  subject  to  tariff  ceilings  approved  by  ANTT  for  each  of  the
concessionaires  and  each  of  the  different  products  transported.  ANTT  regulations  also
require  concessionaires  to  give  trackage  rights  to  other  railway  operators,  to  make
investments  in  the  railway  network,  and  to  meet  certain  productivity  and  safety

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Regulatory Matters

requirements, among other obligations. In 2016, we and other railroad concessionaries in
Brazil initiated discussions with ANTT regarding the possibility of early renewal of railways
concession contracts. If we agree to an earlier renewal of our concession, we may have to
agree  with  additional  performance  indications,  new  investments  obligations  and  service
standards.

(cid:127)

Brazilian port regulation. Port operations in Brazil are subject to regulation and supervision
by  ANTAQ,  the  federal  agency  in  charge  of  maritime  transportation  services,  and  by  the
Ministry of Transport, Ports and Civil Aviation through the Secretary of Ports (SNP), whose
purpose  is  to  formulate  policies  and  guidelines.  In  2014,  we  renewed  the  agreements
pursuant  to  which  the  SNP  grants  us  rights  to  operate  our  private  terminals,  with  the
exception  of  the  agreement  with  CPBS,  which  will  expire  in  2026.  These  renewed
agreements will be effective until 2039.

(cid:127)

Brazilian  regulation  of  mining  dams.  In  May  2017,  the  DNPM  (predecessor  to  the  ANM)
created new obligations for companies operating mining dams in Brazil, primarily:

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

Audit: Companies operating mining dams must conduct two annual stability audits
for each dam and prepare a stability condition report. Specifically in the State of
Minas Gerais, these audits and reports must be prepared by external auditors.

Periodic  Safety  Reviews:  The  stability  condition  report  must  include  detailed
analysis of all dam’s documentation impacts on surrounding communities, including
hazards and failure impact studies. Companies operating mining dams classified as
high associated potential damage (DPA) must complete these studies by June 2018,
while those for medium-DPA mining dams must be completed by December 2018
and those for low-DPA mining dams must be completed by June 2019.

Emergency Action Plan Training: Companies operating high-DPA mining dams must
conduct two annual emergency action plan training sessions for their employees.

(cid:4) Monitoring: Video monitor must be implemented for all high-DPA mining dams by

June 2019.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Regulation of chemicals. Some of our products are subject to regulations applicable to the
marketing,  distribution  and  use  of  chemical  substances  present  in  their  composition.  For
example,  the  European  Commission  has  adopted  a  European  Chemicals  Policy,  known  as
REACH  (‘‘Registration,  Evaluation  and  Authorization  of  Chemicals’’).  Under  REACH,
European  manufacturers  and  importers  are  required  to  register  substances  prior  to  their
entry  into  the  European  market  and  in  some  cases  may  be  subject  to  an  authorization
process. A company that fails to comply with the REACH regulations could face fines and
penalties. We are compliant with the requirements of the REACH regulations. In addition,
South  Korea  is  currently  implementing  a  regulation  similar  to  REACH,  and  we  anticipate
further expansion of REACH-like regulations in other Asian countries.

Regulation of international maritime transportation. We are subject to health, safety and
environmental regulation by the International Maritime Organization (‘‘IMO’’). IMO rules
are based not only on the international shipping categories, but also on the types of cargoes
transported, including special rules for iron ore, coal, nickel and copper. The IMO is currently
discussing further measures for enhancing the energy efficiency of international shipping
including the development of a global data collection system which will eventually enable

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market-based  measures  to  curb  greenhouse  gas  emissions.  These  measures  to  curb
greenhouse gas emissions may increase our freight cost in the future. In 2016, the IMO also
approved regulation establishing limits for sulfur oxides emission limits, which will become
effective in 2020. This regulation may increase freight cost due to the need to use bunker
with  low  sulfur  content  or  to  install  additional  pollutant  control  equipment  to  limit  air
emissions.  Also,  the  International  Convention  for  the  Control  and  Management  of  Ships’
Ballast Water and Sediments became effective in September 2017 for new ships (those with
keels laid after that date). For existing ships, the convention will become effective in stages
beginning in September 2019, following which date each vessel will have a specific deadline
for  compliance,  with  the  global  fleet  required  to  be  fully  compliant  by  September  2024.
Under this convention, all compliant ships during their international voyages are required to
manage  their  ballast  water  and  sediments  in  accordance  with  the  defined  requirements,
which may also result in increases of freight and port operation costs.

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III. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

OVERVIEW

In 2017, we had strong cash generation and significant net debt reduction as a result of improvements in
price realization, strict discipline in capital allocation and slightly improved results from nickel and coal
assets. We generated net income attributable to our stockholders of US$5.507 billion in 2017, compared
to net income of US$3.982 billion in 2016. The most significant factors impacting our results in 2017 were
(i) higher iron ore realized prices, mainly as a result of the 22% increase of the Platts IODEX iron reference
price and gains resulting from higher premiums and commercial initiatives; (ii) higher freight costs and
the  negative  effect  of  the  cost  factors  that  are  directly  linked  to  the  prices  of  our  products,  such  as
exchange  rate  variations  and  bunker  oil  prices;  and  (iii)  impairment  and  other  results  on  non-current
assets, which decreased by 85%, to US$294 million from US$1.240 billion in 2016.

Our  net  income  from  continuing  operations  in  2017  was  US$6.334  billion  in  2017,  compared  to
US$5.205 billion in 2016, and our Adjusted EBITDA in 2017 was US$15.338 billion, 28% higher than in 2016
despite the negative impact of the depreciation of the Brazilian real (8.4%) and higher bunker oil prices
(45%),  mainly  due  to  higher  realized  prices  and  premiums.  Adjusted  EBITDA  is  a  non-GAAP  measure,
which is calculated using operating income or loss plus dividends received and interest from associates
and  joint  ventures,  and  adding  back  the  amounts  charged  as  (i)  impairment  and  other  results  on
non-current assets and (ii) depreciation, depletion and amortization. See —Results of operations—Results
of operations by segment—Adjusted EBITDA by segment.

Our capital expenditures reached the lowest level since 2005, totaling US$3.848 billion in 2017, a 29.8%
decrease  compared  to  2016,  as  a  result  of  the  conclusion  of  the  S11D  mine  and  plant.  We  received
US$922 million as a result of divestments and sales of assets and interests in certain joint ventures and
investments in 2017. We also received dividends and interest from associates and joint ventures in the
amount of US$227 million.

MAJOR FACTORS AFFECTING PRICES

Iron ore and iron ore pellets

Iron ore and iron ore pellets are priced based on a wide array of quality levels and physical characteristics.
Price  differences  derive  from  various  factors,  such  as  the  iron  content  of  specific  ore  deposits,  the
beneficiation processes required to produce the desired final product, particle size, moisture content and
the type and concentration of contaminants (such as phosphorus, alumina, silica and manganese ore) in
the ore. Also, fines, lump ore and pellets typically command different prices.

Demand for our iron ore and iron ore pellets is a function of global demand for carbon steel. Demand for
carbon  steel,  in  turn,  is  strongly  influenced  by  real  estate  and  infrastructure  construction  and  global
industrial production. Demand from China has been the principal driver of world demand and prices.

In 2016, prices began to rise in February driven by policies and supply restrictions imposed by the Chinese
government, which caused iron ore prices to reach a peak of US$70 per dry metric ton by early May. As
expected, steel mills increased their productivity in response to the increase in demand and price, which
increased  the  premium  for  high-grade  ores,  such  as  our  iron  ore  from  Caraj ´as,  and  pellets.  Steel  mill
productivity rates stabilized through August 2016, as well as high-grade material premiums, with high
coking coal prices increasing the value perception of high-grade ores even more.

China’s steel sector outperformed in 2017, mainly driven by machinery, manufacturing and real estate.
The infrastructure sector was quite robust with a relatively loose credit supply in the first three quarters.

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Manufactured goods enjoyed healthy external demand driven by strong orders from developed countries
and from the ongoing ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ projects, all leading China to deliver a record-high steel
production of 831.7 Mt in 2017, an increase of 5.7% year-on-year as per the World Steel Association.

Global steel production excluding China also posted strong growth in 2017 with 859.5 Mt, an increase of
4.9% year-on-year, as the world enjoys its first synchronized growth since the global financial crisis of 2008
and 2009 as consumption and job creation increased and investments resumed, reflecting in steel demand
and production.

As a results of the macroeconomic condition mentioned above, in 2017 there was a decrease in the price
spreads between high- and low-quality ores. Improved steel profitability, high coking coal price and the
environmental restrictions imposed during 2017 led mills to source high-quality ores like the Caraj ´as iron
ore (IOCJ), with around 65% Fe, which provide higher productivity and lower emission levels. While the
Metal Bulletin 58% average of US$ 46.7/dmt in 2017 was only 1% higher year-on-year, the Metal Bulletin
65% average of US$ 88.0/dmt in 2017 represented an increase of 36% year-on-year.

We believe that the price differentials between high- and low-grade iron ores are a structural change that
should  continue  to  impact  the  market  in  the  coming  years.  The  move  towards  a  more  efficient  steel
industry, with the enforcement of stricter environmental policies in China, should support the demand for
high-quality ores that enable productivity and lower emission levels like pellets and IOCJ.

While the increased demand for higher grade ores should support the quality premiums, the relatively
strong supply of ores with lower Fe and high contaminant levels should also maintain pressure on the
discounts for such products. Iron ore Platts IODEX 62% averaged US$ 71.3/dmt in 2017, an increase of 22%
from 2016, supported by the steel sector outperformance that led to higher steel prices across the world.

In 2018, we expect China’s economic growth to moderate from 2017 with some downward risks from
property.  However,  since  the  property  stock  level  has  been  reduced,  the  investments  and  new  starts
should see only a small decrease. Global economic prospects continue positive for 2018, as the IMF has
recently increased expected GDP growth from 3.6% to 3.9%. Steel demand and production are expected
to grow also as new projects in Southeast Asia emerge, a region with steel production deficit and lower
steel consumption per capita.

Nickel

Nickel is an exchange-traded metal, listed on the LME and, starting in 2015, on the SHFE. Most nickel
products are priced based on a discount or premium to the LME price, depending on the nickel product’s
physical and technical characteristics. Demand for nickel is strongly affected by stainless steel production,
which represents, on average, 69% of global primary nickel consumption in 2017.

We have short-term fixed-volume contracts with customers for the majority of our expected annual nickel
sales. These contracts, together with our sales for non-stainless steel applications (alloy steels, high nickel
alloys, plating and batteries), provide stable demand for a significant portion of our annual production. In
2017, 63% of our refined nickel sales were made for non-stainless steel applications, compared to the
industry average for primary nickel producers of 31%, bringing more stability to our sales volumes. As a
result of our focus on such higher-value segments, our average realized nickel prices for refined nickel
have typically exceeded LME cash nickel prices.

Stainless steel is a significant driver of demand for nickel, particularly in China. In 2017, Chinese stainless
steel demand represented 44% of total global demand. As a consequence, changes in Chinese stainless
steel production have a large impact on global nickel demand. In 2017, Chinese stainless steel production

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grew 6% compared to 10% in 2016. Also, the growth in stainless focused on 300-series grade steels, which
contains  relatively  high  amounts  of  nickel,  due  to  superior  physical  characteristics  compared  to  other
austenitic series. We anticipate that demand will continue growing in 2018.

While stainless steel production is a major driver of global nickel demand, stainless steel producers can
obtain nickel with a wide range of nickel content, including secondary nickel (scrap). The choice between
primary and secondary nickel is largely based on their relative prices and availability. On average between
2013 and 2017, secondary nickel accounted for approximately 41% of total nickel used for stainless steel.
Regional availability and consumption of secondary nickel varies. In China, due to low availability of scrap,
the use of secondary nickel represents 20% of the total nickel used for stainless steel, while nickel pig iron,
a relatively low-grade nickel product made primarily in China from imported lateritic ores, accounts for
approximately 40%.

In recent years, Chinese domestic production of nickel pig iron accounted for the majority of world nickel
supply  growth.  In  2017,  approximately  423  thousand  metric  tons,  representing  20%  of  world  primary
nickel  supply  was  produced  as  nickel  pig  iron  in  China,  mainly  using  nickel  ore  from  the  Philippines.
Chinese nickel pig iron production was adversely affected by export restriction of unprocessed ores from
Indonesia, beginning in 2014. In January 2017, the Indonesian government issued a ministerial decree
changing the 2009 mining law that banned the export of unprocessed and semi-processed ores from the
country. The ministerial decree allows for the controlled recommencement of nickel ore exports from
Indonesia. In 2017, approximately 20 Mt of ore have been granted for export to various companies and
export volumes are expected to continue increasing given lack of government concern on market impacts.
Philippines exports are expected to grow as well. Given broad availability of ores for the production of
nickel pig iron in China, the bottleneck for production has shifted away from ore availability to nickel pig
iron capacity. China had in the second half of 2017 instituted a number of environmental measures to
curtail  pollution  and  this  has  adversely  impacted  nickel  pig  iron  production.  Continued  focus  of  the
Chinese  government  on  the  environment  is  likely  to  continue  to  impact  nickel  pig  iron  production,
although we expect nickel pig iron production to continue to grow in 2018 relative to 2017.

The nickel market was in deficit in 2017 by approximately 80-90kt. Global exchange inventories (London
Metals  Exchange  and  Shanghai  Future  Exchange)  declined  53,200  tons  from  January  1,  2017  to
December 31, 2017. We expect the market to remain in deficit in 2018.

In the long term, the battery segment shows important upside potential as electric vehicle production
continues  to  attract  significant  investments,  which  could  positively  affect  nickel  price  and  our  nickel
premiums.  As  currently  foreseeable,  commercially  viable  electric  vehicle  battery  technologies  utilize
nickel; increasing nickel content in such batteries results in improved energy storage and lower cost. As a
result,  nickel  demand  is  expected  to  surge,  particularly  given  the  expected  increase  in  production  of
electric vehicles and the trends towards increased battery size and increased nickel content in batteries to
improve performance and lower cost.

Copper

Copper demand in recent years has been driven primarily by China, given the important role copper plays
in construction in addition to electrical and consumer applications. Copper prices are determined on the
basis of (i) prices of copper metal on terminal markets, such as the LME and the NYMEX, and (ii) in the case
of  intermediate  products,  such  as  copper  concentrate  (which  comprise  most  of  our  sales)  and  copper
anode, treatment and refining charges negotiated with each customer.

Demand for refined copper grew by approximately 2% in 2017, with China responsible for approximately
48%  of  worldwide  consumption.  Predominant  use  of  copper  in  China  was  in  construction  and  in  the

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electrical grid. In 2017, numerous supply disruptions particularly at the world’s largest mines due to labor
negotiations and government disputes impacted the copper industry. As a result, mine production was
approximately 0.4% lower compared to 2016. In the second half of the year, demand in China as well as a
positive macroeconomic environment helped improve copper prices. We anticipate that the market will
reach a balance in 2018, as demand continues to grow and projects complete ramping up.

Coal

Demand for metallurgical coal is fundamentally driven by steel demand, and future growth continues to
be expected in Asia. Asia, including India, accounts for more than half of the steel market and consumes
approximately 75% of seaborne metallurgical coal. Chinese total coking coal imports increased by 17% to
almost 70 million metric tons in 2017 compared to approximately 59 million metric tons imported in 2016.
In 2017, China accounted for approximately 16% of total coking coal imports. Global demand excluding
China is expected to increase by approximately 2.5% in 2017, compared to 2016, mainly driven by India,
South America and Southeast Asia while demand in Europe was stable.

The Chinese government has implemented a number of policies in order to conduct structural reforms
and  address  oversupply  capacity,  while  improving  overall  safety  standards  and  the  long-term
competitiveness  of  its  domestic  coal  industry.  In  2016,  total  closures  reached  290Mt  and  the  Chinese
government  set  up  plans  to  cut  an  additional  150Mt  in  2017,  which  was  later  revised  to  200Mt.  The
Chinese government is on track to meet the overall closure target of 800Mt by 2020. In order to improve
air condition during a period between early November and late March, the Chinese government enforced
curtailment  in  ironmaking  and  coke  production  in  the  Hebei,  Henan,  Shanxi,  Shandong  and  Tianjin
regions,  while  Chinese  mines  have  not  been  asked  to  cut  production,  resulting  in  softening  domestic
coking coal prices compared to international coking coal prices.

In the international market, price volatility continued in 2017. Premium coking coal average price climbed
37% year-on-year from US$143 per metric ton in 2016 to US$187 per metric ton. Premium coking coal
prices started the year on a downward trend, dropping from US$230 per metric ton to US$153 per metric
ton in late March, before soaring to US$302 per metric ton on the back of supply disruptions in Australia
due  to  Cyclone  Debby.  Prices  rapidly  corrected  to  US$139  per  metric  ton  in  mid-June  and  have  since
increased to US$180 and US$200 per metric ton as a result of high steel margins and strong demand in
China. Further supply tightness in Australia due to prolonged port maintenance and a number of mining
issues caused a price rally and seaborne prices ended 2017 at US$262 per ton. The price of metallurgical
coal on January 15, 2018 was US$259 per ton.

Demand for thermal coal is closely related to electricity consumption, which continues to be driven by
global economic growth and urbanization, with the highest levels of growth found in Asia and emerging
markets. Global power demand increased 3% year on year and thermal coal demand climbed 2% year on
year. The Chinese seaborne coal import posted a second year in a row increase and is expected to reach
approximately  180  million  metric  tons  in  2017,  up  7.3%  year  on  year,  as  a  result  of  low  hydropower
generation. Demand in Asian countries (excluding China) has also been strong, and coal share in power
generation increased from 44% to slightly above 45%. Coal consumption for power generation has fallen
for  the  fifth  consecutive  year  in  Europe,  and  demand  is  estimated  to  drop  by  5%  year  on  year.  The
European seaborne import decrease was largely impacted by the decline in coal consumption in the UK
and Germany, and continued competition against gas. However, short-term factors, such as the strikes in
exporting countries, low water levels in Europe reducing hydropower generation and nuclear and gas
supply issues have kept demand volatile. In India, year-on-year thermal coal demand remained firm, and
seaborne imports will increase by 1.8% in 2017, compared to 2016, as growth in domestic production will
be weaker than demand. The power sector in India is expected to grow in the near term and domestic

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production plans set by the Indian government are unlikely to reach targets due to a number of land
acquisition issues and infrastructure projects.

Thermal  coal  prices  were  stable  in  2017,  mainly  due  to  strong  demand  in  Asia  and  short-term  supply
factors. The Newcastle Index average in 2017 reached US$88.4 per ton, up 33% year on year, while the
Richards Bay Coal Index increased by 32% to US$84.8 per ton. Amid supply tightness during the winter
season in the northern hemisphere, prices rose in the second half of 2017, tracking above the US$100 per
metric ton threshold.

Climate change policies may continue to adversely impact coal demand in Europe, North America and
China. However, consumption in other developing Asian economies is expected to expand. On the supply
side, current investments are low and the lack of new project development is expected to impact supply
and demand balance by 2020, at which point prices will be set by incentive prices.

SALE OF FERTILIZER BUSINESS

As part of our ongoing efforts to optimize the structure of our portfolio of businesses in order to achieve
the most efficient allocation of capital, in December 2016 we entered into an agreement with Mosaic for
the  sale  of  our  Fertilizers  business,  including  assets  in  Brazil,  Peru  and  Canada.  As  a  result  of  this
agreement,  we  report  operational  and  financial  results  for  our  fertilizers  business  in  the  income
statements under ‘‘discontinued operations.’’ Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, all figures presented
in the forepart of this annual report do not include the results of the fertilizers business. In January 2018,
we concluded this transaction, after the parties agreed on final adjustments to the terms and conditions,
as a result of which we recognized an impairment loss of US$729 million in our results of discontinued
operations in 2017.

In November 2017, we entered into an agreement to sell our nitrogen assets located in Cubat ˜ao, Brazil to
Yara International ASA, for which we recognized an impairment loss of US$156 million in our results of
discontinued operations in 2017.

IMPAIRMENT CHARGES

In recent years, we have recognized significant impairments of our assets and investments, attributable to
a variety of factors. In 2017, we recognized impairment charges totaling US$271 million, compared to
US$1,174 million in 2016 and US$8,412 million in 2015. The most significant single impairment in 2017 was
for an underground mine in Sudbury that was affected by seismic activities, for which the cost to repair
the asset is deemed not recoverable in the current market conditions. We have placed this asset on care
and maintenance and an impairment of US$133 was recognized in the income statement.

FAILURE OF SAMARCO’S FUND ˜AO TAILINGS DAM

We own a 50% interest in Samarco and account for it under the equity method. Below is a summary of the
impact of the failure of Samarco’s dam in our financial statements:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

The carrying value for our investment in Samarco was reduced to zero in 2015.

In June 2016, pursuant to the Framework Agreement, Samarco, Vale S.A. and BHPB created
the Funda¸c ˜ao Renova to develop and implement remediation and compensation programs
over many years. The Framework Agreement provides that to the extent that Samarco does
not meet its funding obligations to the foundation, each of Vale S.A. and BHPB must provide

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funds to the foundation in proportion to its 50% equity interest in Samarco. As a result of
uncertainty related to the timing of Samarco’s resumption of operations and expected cash
flows, we recognized a provision for estimated costs. The amount of provisions related to
Samarco  as  of  December  31,  2017  is  US$996  million  (compared  to  US$1.077  billion  as  of
December 31, 2016). This provision represents the present value of our best estimate of the
amounts we may incur to comply with our obligations under the Framework Agreement,
considering  our  50%  stake  in  Samarco.  At  each  reporting  period,  we  reassess  the  key
assumptions used by Samarco in the preparation of its projected future cash flows and adjust
the provision, if required.

(cid:127)

In 2017, we contributed R$753 million (US$237 million) to Samarco, which was allocated as
follows: (i) R$300 million (US$95 million) was used by Samarco in the reparation programs in
accordance  with  the  Framework  Agreement,  and  deducted  from  the  provision,  and
(ii) R$453 million (US$142 million) was used by Samarco to fund its working capital. These
contributions  were  made  through  the  issuance  by  Samarco  of  non-convertible  private
debentures, which were equally subscribed by Vale and BHPB.

(cid:127) We intend to make available short-term facilities of up to US$48 million to support Samarco’s
operations  during  the  first  half  of  2018,  and  the  expenses  related  to  the  experts  named
pursuant to the preliminary agreements with the MPF, signed in January 2017. These funds
will be released as needed, but we have not undertaken an obligation to Samarco. BHPB has
stated  that  it  will  make  available  to  Samarco  short-term  facilities  with  similar  terms  and
conditions.

(cid:127)

Upon  creation  of  the  foundation,  Samarco  transferred  to  the  foundation  most  of  the
reparation  and  compensation  programs.  Therefore,  we  made  contributions  to  the
foundation  in  the  total  amount  of  R$239  million  (US$71  million)  and  R$640  million
(US$199  million)  in  2016  and  2017,  respectively  and  we  expect  to  contribute  with
R$432  million  (US$133  million)  in  the  first  half  of  2018,  to  be  used  in  the  programs  in
accordance with the Framework Agreement.

EFFECT OF CURRENCY EXCHANGE VARIATION

Our results are affected in several ways by changes in the Brazilian real exchange rate. Year-end exchange
rate  variations  impact  our  financial  results,  while  the  average  exchange  rate  impacts  our  operational
performance.

In 2017, the Brazilian real depreciated 2% against the U.S. dollar, from an exchange rate of R$3.26 to
US$1.00 on December 31, 2016 to R$3.31 to US$1.00 on December 31, 2017. The most important effects
were non-cash losses, as described below.

(cid:127) Most of our debt is denominated in currencies other than the Brazilian real, principally the
U.S.  dollar  (US$18.072  billion  as  of  December  31,  2017,  not  including  accrued  charges).
Because  the  functional  currency  of  our  parent  company  for  accounting  purposes  is  the
Brazilian  real,  changes  in  the  value  of  the  U.S.  dollar  against  the  Brazilian  real  result  in
exchange  gain  or  loss  on  our  net  liabilities.  In  2017,  our  net  foreign  exchange  loss  of
US$463  million  mainly  relates  to  exchange  losses  on  our  net  U.S.  dollar-denominated
liabilities, due to the depreciation of the Brazilian real against the U.S. dollar.

(cid:127) We  had  real-denominated  debt  of  US$3.883  billion  as  of  December  31,  2017,  excluding
accrued charges. Since most of our revenues are in U.S. dollars, we used swaps to convert part

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of our debt service from Brazilian reais to U.S. dollars. Changes in the value of the U.S. dollar
against  the  Brazilian  real  result  in  fair  value  variation  on  these  derivatives,  affecting  our
financial results. As a result of the depreciation of the Brazilian real against the U.S. dollar in
2017,  we  had  fair  value  losses  on  our  currency  derivatives  of  US$313  million.  For  more
information on our use of derivatives, see Risk management.

In 2017, the annual average exchange rate for Brazilian reais against the U.S. dollar appreciated by 8%,
from an average exchange rate of R$3.48 to US$1.00 in 2016 to R$3.19 to US$1.00 in 2017. This had a
negative impact on our operational result and cash flows. The most important effect is described below:

(cid:127) Most of our revenues are denominated in U.S. dollars, while most of our cost of goods sold
are  denominated  in  other  currencies,  including  the  Brazilian  real  (52%  in  2017),  and  the
Canadian dollar (12% in 2017). As a result, the appreciation of the Brazilian real and other
currencies against the U.S. dollar increased our costs and expenses by US$725 million.

In January 2017, Vale implemented hedge accounting for the foreign currency risk arising from its net
investments  in  Vale  International  and  Vale  Austria.  Under  the  hedge  accounting  program,  our  debt
denominated in U.S. dollars and Euros will serve as a hedge instrument for Vale S.A. investments in Vale
International  and  Vale  Austria.  With  the  program,  the  impact  of  exchange  rate  variations  over  debt
denominated  in  U.S.  dollars  and  Euros  will  be  partially  recorded  under  other  comprehensive  income,
reducing volatility of financial performance.

CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Certain new accounting standards that are relevant to our activities became effective for our accounting
periods beginning after January 1, 2018 or later periods. We decided not to adopt early any of these
standards, and therefore they have not impacted our financial statements as of and for the year ended
December 31, 2017. The key changes to accounting policies are described below:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

IFRS  9—Financial  Instruments  (‘‘IFRS  9’’)  is  applicable  for  annual  periods  beginning  on  or
after  January  1,  2018.  This  standard  addresses  the  classification  and  measurement  of
financial assets and liabilities, and provides for new impairment model and new rules for
hedge accounting. We have reviewed our financial assets and liabilities and concluded that
IFRS 9 is not expected to cause a material impact on our financial statements for 2018.

IFRS 15—Revenue from Contracts with Customers (‘‘IFRS 15’’) is applicable for annual periods
beginning on or after January 1, 2018. IFRS 15 provides a single comprehensive accounting
model  for  recognition  of  revenue  arising  from  contracts  with  customers  based  on  a  core
principle that revenue is recognized at the time the control of a good or service is transferred
to a customer and in an amount that reflects the consideration expected to be received in
exchange for the transfer of this good or service. IFRS 15 will not impact revenue recognition
for most of our contracts, since usually the transfer of risks and rewards and the transfer of
control are at the same point in time.

Under IFRS 15, for contracts in which we are responsible for providing shipping services after
the date of transfer of control of goods to customers (sales under CFR or CIF Incoterms), the
provision of shipping services will be accounted for as a separate performance obligation,
and a portion of the transaction price will be allocated to such services and recognized over
time. We believe that the impact on the timing of revenue recognition will not significantly
impact  our  financial  statements  for  2018.  Therefore,  we  will  not  present  this  revenue
separately in our financial statements.

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Overview

(cid:127)

IFRS 16—Leases (‘‘IFRS 16’’) will become effective for annual periods beginning on or after
January 1, 2019. IFRS 16 eliminates the distinction between operating and finance leases for
lessees,  and  requires  that  most  leases  be  reflected  on  the  lessee’s  balance  sheet  as  a
right-of-use asset and a lease liability.

We  are  reviewing  our  main  contracts  to  evaluate  the  potential  impact  of  IFRS  16  on  our
consolidated  financial  statements.  It  is  not  yet  possible  to  estimate  the  amount  of
right-of-use assets and lease liabilities that will have to be recognized upon the adoption of
the new standard and how this may affect the our financial statements.

For more information, see note 2.e and note 31 to the consolidated financial statements.

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

CONSOLIDATED REVENUES

In  2017,  our  net  operating  revenues  from  continuing  operations 
increased  by  23.57%  to
US$33.967 billion, primarily resulting from higher realized prices for iron ore fines and pellets (an impact
of US$4.162 billion on our net revenues) and higher sales volumes of pellets (an impact of US$330 million
on our net revenues). Our net operating revenues were also positively impacted by higher prices for base
metals (positive impact of US$1.029 billion). Net operating results of each segment are discussed below
under —Results of operations by segment.

Our revenue depends, among other factors, on the volume of production at our facilities and the prices
for our products. We publish a quarterly production report that is available on our website and furnished
to the SEC on Form 6-K. Increases in the capacity of our facilities resulting from our capital expenditure
program have an important effect on our performance. Our production is also affected by acquisitions
and dispositions.

The following table summarizes, for the periods indicated, the distribution of our net operating revenues
of continuing operations based on the geographical location of our customers.

Net operating revenues by destination

2015

2016

2017

(US$ million)

(% of total)

(US$ million)

(% of total)

(US$ million)

(% of total)

North America
Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

South America
Brazil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Asia
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
South Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taiwan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Europe
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
France. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Rest of the world . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,122
855

1,977

2,017
377

2,394

9,095
1,959
790
620
830

13,294

1,433
399
461
331
1,905

4,529

1,190

4.8%
3.7

8.5

8.6
1.6

10.2

38.9
8.4
3.4
2.6
3.5

56.8

6.1
1.7
2.0
1.4
8.1

19.4

5.1

1,172
1,005

2,177

2,064
354

2,418

12,747
1,741
880
621
889

16,878

1,379
326
435
429
2,079

4,648

1,367

4.3%
3.6

7.9

7.5
1.3

8.8

46.4
6.3
3.2
2.3
3.2

61.4

5.0
1.2
1.6
1.6
7.5

16.9

5.0

1,310
1,008

2,318

3,475
664

4,139

14,018
2,456
1,399
700
1,483

20,056

1,389
346
521
551
2,695

5,502

1,952

3.9%
3.0

6.8

10.2
2.0

12.2

41.3
7.2
4.1
2.1
4.4

59.0

4.1
1.0
1.5
1.6
7.9

16.2

5.7

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

23,384

100.0%

27,488

100.0%

33,967

100.0%

CONSOLIDATED OPERATING COSTS AND EXPENSES

Our cost of goods sold and services rendered from continuing operations totaled US$21.039 billion in
2017, increasing by 19.2%, or US$3.389 billion, from the US$17.650 billion recorded in 2016. Higher costs
were  mostly  driven  by  (i)  higher  iron  ore  prices  (US$695  million),  resulting  in  higher  leasing  costs  of

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Results of Operations

pelletizing plants, royalties, costs of feed purchased from third parties and provision for profit-sharing
payments to employees; and (ii) other exogenous factors, such as the negative impacts of exchange rate
variations  on  costs  (US$655  million)  and  bunker  oil  prices  (US$409  million),  higher  freight  costs
(US$267 million) and higher energy costs (US$215 million).

Our selling, general, administrative and other expenses from continuing operations increased by 29.7% in
2017, mostly due to the one-off positive effect from the goldstream transaction (US$150 million) in 2016.
We  increased  our  research  and  evaluation  expenses  by  6.3%,  to  US$340  million  in  2017  from
US$320 million in 2016. Our pre-operating and stoppage expenses decreased by US$280 million in 2017,
primarily  because  of  the  lower  pre-operating  expenses  in  Long  Harbour  and  Mozambique  as  their
ramp-ups  mature  and  therefore  started  to  be  accounted  for  as  costs  in  2017.  These  reductions  were
partially offset by higher pre-operating expenses in S11D, due to the start of the ramp-up.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS BY SEGMENT

Net operating revenue by segment

The following table summarizes our net operating revenues by product for the periods indicated.

Ferrous minerals:

Iron ore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys and manganese . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other ferrous products and services . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals:

Nickel and other products(1) . . . . . . . . . . .
Copper concentrate(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other products and services(3) . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year ended December 31,

2015

% change

2016

% change

2017

(US$ million, except for %)

12,330
3,600
162
470

16,562
526

4,693
1,470

6,163
133

28.0 %
6.3
86.4
(6.8)

22.9
59.5

(4.7)
13.4

(0.4)
19.5

15,784
3,827
302
438

20,351
839

4,472
1,667

6,139
159

17.4%
47.7
55.3
10.3

23.5
86.8

4.4
32.2

11.9
151.6

18,524
5,653
469
483

25,129
1,567

4,667
2,204

6,871
400

Net operating revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

23,384

17.6 %

27,488

23.6%

33,967

Includes nickel coproducts (copper) and byproducts (precious metals, cobalt and others).

(1)
(2) Does not include copper produced in our nickel operations.
(3)

Includes energy.

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Sales volumes

The following table sets forth, for our principal products, the total volumes we sold in each of the periods
indicated.

Results of Operations

Ferrous minerals:

Iron ore fines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manganese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ROM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Coal:

Thermal coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Metallurgical coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Base metals:

Nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PGMs (000’ oz.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gold (000’ oz.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Silver (000’ oz.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cobalt (metric tons) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Average realized prices

Year ended December 31,

2015

2016

2017

(thousand metric tons, except where indicated)

276,393
46,284
1,764
69
12,269

892
5,614

292
397
519
425
2,303
3,840

289,940
47,709
1,851
127
3,496

5,457
4,907

311
430
507
497
2,578
4,734

288,692
51,775
1,826
132
2,637

4,602
7,178

295
424
350
471
2,179
5,103

The  following  table  sets  forth  our  average  realized  prices  for  our  principal  products  for  each  of  the
periods  indicated.  We  determine  average  realized  prices  based  on  our  net  operating  revenues,  which
consist  of  the  price  charged  to  customers,  excluding  certain  items  that  we  deduct  in  arriving  at  net
operating revenues, mainly value-added tax.

Ferrous minerals:

Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manganese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Coal:

Thermal coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Metallurgical coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Base metals:

Nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Platinum (US$/oz) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gold (US$/oz). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Silver (US$/oz) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cobalt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cost of goods sold by segment

Year ended December 31,

2015

2016

2017

(US$ per metric ton, except where indicated)

44.61
77.79
56.42
899.32

52.36
85.55

11,684.30
4,352.94
1,020.14
1,123.07
12.63
21,936.00

54.44
80.26
110.87
757.67

46.17
119.54

9,800.00
4,458.00
919.00
1,260.49
16.22
24,273.00

64.17
109.18
159.01
1,353.72

71.05
172.69

10,654.00
5,970.00
891.00
1,247.00
15.30
51,513.00

The  following  table  presents,  for  each  indicated  period,  our  cost  of  goods  sold  by  segment  and  the
percentage change from year to year. Because significant portions of changes in our cost of goods sold

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12APR201813380467

may derive from exchange rate variations, we also present in the table below the effect of exchange
variations and the changes on a constant currency basis.

Results of Operations

2017

2016

2017

Year ended December 31,

Variation
without

Cost of goods Cost of goods Variation as Exchange rate exchange rate
reported

impact in 2017

impact

sold

sold

Variation -
constant
currency
basis

(US$ million, except for %)

Ferrous minerals:

Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys and manganese . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other ferrous products and services . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals:

Nickel and other products(1) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Copper(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total (excluding depreciation) . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total (including depreciation) . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7,950
2,876
278
306

11,410
1,354

3,437
979

4,416

375

17,555

3,484

21,039

6,622
2,002
231
269

9,124
872

3,204
924

4,128

259

14,383

3,267

17,650

20.1%
43.7
20.3
13.8

25.1
55.3

7.3
6.0

7.0

44.8

22.1

6.6

19.2%

330
110
14
36

490
0

64
81

145

20

655

159

814

998
764
33
1

1,796
482

169
(26)

143

96

2,517

58

14.4%
36.2
13.5
0.3

18.7
55.3

5.2
(2.6)

3.3

34.4

16.7

1.7

2,575

13.9%

Includes nickel coproducts (copper) and byproducts (precious metals, cobalt and others).

(1)
(2) Does not include copper produced in our nickel operations.

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Results of Operations

2016

2015

Year ended December 31,

2016

Variation
without

Cost of goods Cost of goods Variation as

sold

sold

reported

Exchange rate exchange rate
impact in 2017

impact

(US$ million, except for %)

Variation -
constant
currency basis

Ferrous minerals:

Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pellets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys and manganese . . . . . . .
Other ferrous products and

services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals:

Nickel and other products(1) . . . . . .
Copper(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total (excluding depreciation) . . . . . . .

Depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total (including depreciation) . . . . . . .

6,622
2,002
231

269

9,124
872

3,204
924

4,128
259

14,383

3,267

17,650

7,604
2,121
175

341

10,241
839

3,393
903

4,296
139

15,515

3,236

18,751

(12.9)%
(5.6)
32.0

(21.1)

(10.9)
3.9

(5.6)
2.3

(3.9)
86.3

(7.3)

1.0

(5.9)%

(148)
(51)
(6)

(13)

(218)
(3)

(86)
(37)

(123)
(6)

(350)

(113)

(463)

(834)
(68)
62

(11.2)%
(3.2)
36.6

(59)

(18.3)

(899)
36

(103)
58

(45)
126

(9.0)
4.3

(3.1)
6.7

(1.1)
95.3

(782)

(5.2)

144

4.6

(638)

(3.5)%

Includes nickel coproducts (copper) and byproducts (precious metals, cobalt and others).

(1)
(2) Does not include copper produced in our nickel operations.

Expenses by segment (excluding impairment charges)

The following table summarizes, for each indicated period, our expenses (including selling, general and
administrative,  research  and  evaluation,  pre-operating,  stoppage  and  other  expenses,  net  of  other
revenues)  by  segment  and  the  percentage  change  from  year  to  year.  Because  significant  portions  of
changes in our expenses may derive from exchange rate variations, we also present in the table below the

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12APR201813380467

Results of Operations

effect of exchange variations and the changes on a constant currency basis. The table excludes the effect
of impairment charges. See—Impairment charges.

2017

2016

2017

Year ended December 31,

Expenses

Expenses

Exchange rate Variation without

Variation as
reported

impact in
2017

exchange rate
impact

(US$ million, except for %)

Variation -
constant
currency
basis

Ferrous minerals:

Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys and manganese. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other ferrous products and services . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals:

Nickel and other products(1) . . . . . . . . . . .
Copper(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other base metals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total (excluding depreciation) . . . . . . . . . . . .

Depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total (including depreciation) . . . . . . . . . . . .

553
91
16
(3)

657
62

276
40
–

316
445

1,480

224

1,704

727
108
15
14

864
21

287
30
(150)

167
274

1,326

220

1,546

(23.9)%
(15.7)
6.7
(121.4)

(24.0)
195.2

(3.8)
33.3
(100.0)

89.2
62.4

11.6

1.8

10.2%

55
8
1
1

65
1

(2)
2
0

0
17

83

10

93

Includes nickel coproducts (copper) and byproducts (precious metals, cobalt and others).

(1)
(2) Does not include copper produced in our nickel operations.

(229)
(25)
–
(18)

(272)
40

(9)
8
150

149
154

71

(6)

65

(29.3)%
(21.6)
–
(120.0)

(29.3)
181.8

(3.2)
25.0
(100.0)

89.2
52.9

5.0

(2.6)

4.0%

95
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12APR201813380467

Results of Operations

2016

2015

2016

Year ended December 31,

Expenses

Expenses

Variation as
reported

Exchange rate Variation without

impact in
2016

exchange rate
impact

(US$ million, except for %)

Variation -
constant
currency
basis

Ferrous minerals:

Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys and manganese . . . . . . . . . .
Other ferrous products and services .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Coal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Base metals:

Nickel and other products(1) . . . . . . . . .
Copper(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other base metals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total (excluding depreciation) . . . . . . . . . .

Depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total (including depreciation) . . . . . . . . . .

727
108
15
14

864

21

287
30
(150)

167
274

1,326

220

1,546

643
19
18
(3)

677

223

668
41
(230)

479
294

1,673

483

2,156

13.1%

468.4
(16.7)
(566.7)

27.6

(90.6)

(57.0)
(26.8)
(34.8)

(65.1)
(6.8)

(20.7)

(54.5)

(28.3)%

(23)
–
(1)
2

(22)

(1)

–
(1)
–

(1)
4

(20)

(6)

(26)

Includes nickel coproducts (copper) and byproducts (precious metals, cobalt and others).

(1)
(2) Does not include copper produced in our nickel operations.

Adjusted EBITDA by segment

107
89
(2)
15

209

17.3%

468.4
(11.8)
(1500.0)

31.9

(201)

(90.5)

(381)
(10)
80

(311)
(24)

(327)

(257)

(584)

(57.0)
(25.0)
(34.8)

(65.1)
(8.1)

(19.8)

(53.9)

(27.4)%

Our management uses adjusted EBITDA to assess each segment’s contribution to our performance and to
support decisions about resource allocation. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure, which is calculated
for each segment using operating income or loss plus dividends received and interest from associates and
joint ventures, and adding back the amounts charged as (i) impairment and other results on non-current
assets  and  (ii)  depreciation,  depletion  and  amortization.  For  more  information,  see  note  3  to  our
consolidated financial statements.

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Results of Operations

The table below shows a reconciliation of our consolidated Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations
with our net income (loss) from continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and
2015.

Year ended December 31,

2015

2016

2017

(US$ million)

Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Vale’s

stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment and others results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial results, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment and other results on non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends received and interest from associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, depletion and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted EBITDA from discontinued operations (Fertilizers) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total Adjusted EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(11,929)
(501)

(12,430)
(5,249)
349
445
10,654

(6,231)
8,708
318
3,719

6,514

567

7,081

5,211
(8)

5,203
2,781
1,220
(309)
(1,843)

7,052
1,240
193
3,487

11,972

209

12,181

6,313
21

6,334
1,495
180
(98)
3,019

10,930
294
406
3,708

15,338

4

15,342

The following table summarizes our consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for each of our segments.

Year ended December 31,

2015

Adjusted
EBITDA

2016

Adjusted
EBITDA

(US$ million)

2017

Adjusted
EBITDA

Ferrous minerals:

Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys and manganese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other ferrous products and services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Base metals:

Nickel and other products(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Copper(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted EBITDA from discontinued operations (Fertilizers) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total Adjusted EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,105
1,685
(31)
140

5,899

(508)

632
526
230

1,388

(265)

6,514

567

7,081

8,445
1,820
56
155

10,476

(54)

985
713
150

1,848

(298)

11,972

209

12,181

10,051
2,767
175
199

13,192

330

954
1,185
–

2,139

(323)

15,338

4

15,342

Includes nickel coproducts (copper) and byproducts (precious metals, cobalt and others).

(1)
(2) Does not include copper produced in our nickel operations.
(3)

Includes energy.

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12APR201813380467

We  discuss  below,  for  each  segment,  the  changes  in  our  net  operating  revenues,  cost  of  goods  sold
(excluding depreciation, depletion and amortization), expenses (excluding depreciation, depletion and
amortization and excluding impairment charges) and Adjusted EBITDA.

Results of Operations

Ferrous minerals

2017 compared to 2016

(cid:127) Our  net  operating  revenues  from  sales  of  ferrous  minerals  increased  by  23.5%,  from
US$20.351  billion  in  2016  to  US$25.129  billion  in  2017,  reflecting  higher  realized  prices,
higher premiums and lower discounts. Our average realized prices in 2017 were 17.9% and
36.0%  higher  than  our  average  realized  prices  in  2016  for  iron  ore  and  iron  ore  pellets,
respectively. Our iron ore sales volume reached 288.7 Mt in 2017, in line with 2016, mainly
due to the S11D ramp-up, offset by the curtailment of high silica products in the Southern
and Southeastern Systems and build-up of offshore inventories.

(cid:127) Our  cost  of  goods  sold  from  ferrous  minerals,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and
depletion, increased by 18.7% on a constant currency basis, mainly as a result of the negative
effect of cost factors that are directly linked to iron ore prices, such as higher freight costs
(US$642 million) driven by higher bunker oil prices.

(cid:127) Our  net  expenses  from  ferrous  minerals,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and
depletion, and excluding impairment charges, decreased by 29.3% on a constant currency
basis, mainly due to lower pre-operating expenses in S11D.

(cid:127) Our  adjusted  EBITDA  from  ferrous  minerals  was  US$13.192  billion  in  2017,  25.9%  higher
than  the  US$10.476  billion  we  reported  in  2016.  The  increase  was  mainly  due  to  higher
market  prices,  higher  premiums  and  the  initiatives  of  supply  discipline,  portfolio  mix
management,  global  supply  chain  management  and  focus  on  cost  savings.  Dividends
received and interest from associates and joint ventures operating in the ferrous minerals
segment totaled US$130 million in 2017, in line with the US$113 million received in 2016.

2016 compared to 2015

(cid:127) Our  net  operating  revenues  from  sales  of  ferrous  minerals  increased  by  22.9%,  from
US$16.562  billion  in  2015  to  US$20.351  billion  in  2016,  reflecting  higher  prices  and  sales
volumes of iron ore and iron ore pellets. Our average realized prices in 2016 were 22.0% and
3.2%  higher  than  our  average  realized  prices  in  2015  for  iron  ore  and  iron  ore  pellets,
respectively.  Our  iron  ore  sales  volume  increased  by  4.9%  in  2016  due  to  improved
operational performance of the Northern System.

(cid:127) Our  cost  of  goods  sold  from  ferrous  minerals,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and
depletion, decreased by 9.0% on a constant currency basis, mainly as a result of a decrease in
our freight costs, in the amount of US$705 million, the termination in December 2015 of our
bunker  oil  hedge  accounting  program,  which  had  a  negative  impact  in  the  amount  of
US$460  million  on  our  results  for  2015,  and  other  cost-cutting  measures  implemented  in
2016, including the renegotiation and termination of freight charter contracts. The decrease
in our costs of goods sold was partially offset by increased costs associated with higher sales
volumes, in the amount of US$446 million.

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(cid:127) Our  net  expenses  from  ferrous  minerals,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and
depletion, and excluding impairment charges, increased by 31.9% on a constant currency
basis, mainly due to a reversion of provisions for asset retirement obligations in 2015 in the
amount of US$322 million. We also saw an increase in pre-operating and stoppage expenses
from US$169 million in 2015 to US$187 million in 2016, mainly as a result of the increase in
S11D pre-operating expenses and stoppage expense in our iron ore operations in Mariana, in
the state of Minas Gerais.

(cid:127) Our  adjusted  EBITDA  from  ferrous  minerals  was  US$10.476  billion  in  2016,  77.6%  higher
than the US$5.899 billion we reported in 2015. The increase was mainly due to the increase in
market prices (impact of US$2.727 billion), and also increases in sales volume and a positive
impact of exchange rate variations, in the amount of US$244 million. Dividends received and
interest  from  associates  and  joint  ventures  operating  in  the  ferrous  minerals  segment
totaled  US$113  million  in  2016  compared  to  US$255  million  in  2015,  reflecting  lower
dividends, especially due to the lack of dividends from Samarco.

Coal

2017 compared to 2016

(cid:127) Our net operating revenues from sales of coal increased by 86.8%, to US$1.567 million in
2017 from US$839 million in 2016. This increase primarily reflected higher realized prices, for
both thermal and metallurgical coal, and higher sales volumes of metallurgical coal. Sales
volumes of metallurgical coal totaled 7.178 Mt in 2017, increasing 2.271 Mt as compared to
2016, as a result of ramp-up of our new coal handling processing plant in Moatize and the
Nacala Logistic Corridor.

(cid:127) Our  cost  of  goods  sold  from  coal,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and  depletion,
increased  by  55.3%  on  a  constant  currency  basis,  from  US$872  million  in  2016  to
US$1.354 billion in 2017, primarily due to the impact of the logistic tariff applied after we
ceased to consolidate NLC in our financial statements.

(cid:127) Our  net  expenses  from  coal,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and  depletion,  and
excluding impairment charges, totaled US$62 million in 2017, increasing US$41 million as
compared to the US$21 million recorded in 2016. This increase in net expenses in 2017 mainly
derives  from  adjustments  to  the  net  realizable  value  of  the  thermal  coal  inventory  in
Mozambique.

(cid:127) Our adjusted EBITDA from coal was a gain of US$330 million in 2017, while in 2016 we had a
loss of US$54 million, reflecting the higher realized prices (US$386 million) and higher sales
volumes from Mozambique (US$129 million). These higher prices and sales volumes were
partially offset by the higher costs and expenses (US$73 million), due to the impact of the
logistics tariff.

2016 compared to 2015

(cid:127) Our net operating revenues from sales of coal increased by 59.5%, to US$839 million in 2016
from  US$526  million  in  2015.  This  increase  primarily  reflected  higher  sales  prices  of
metallurgical  coal  (impact  of  US$161  million)  and  higher  sales  volumes  for  thermal  coal
(impact of US$208 million) as a result of an increase in logistics capacity with the ramp-up of

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Results of Operations

the NLC, allowing for the sale of thermal coal inventories. Sales volumes of metallurgical coal
totaled  4.907  Mt  in  2016,  decreasing  707  kt  as  compared  to  2015,  as  a  result  of  a  33%
decrease in sales volumes from Carborough Downs, which faced geological issues in 2016
and was divested in November 2016. Sales volumes of thermal coal reached 5.457 Mt in 2016,
compared to 0.892 Mt in 2015.

(cid:127) Our  cost  of  goods  sold  from  coal,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and  depletion,
increased  by  4.3%  on  a  constant  currency  basis,  from  US$872  million  in  2016  to
US$836 million in 2015, as a result of the ramp-up of the NLC.

(cid:127) Our  net  expenses  from  coal,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and  depletion,  and
excluding  impairment  charges,  decreased  by  90.5%  on  a  constant  currency  basis,  from
US$222  million  in  2015  to  US$21  million  in  2016,  due  to  (i)  reduced  selling,  general  and
administrative  expenses  in  Australia  (impact  of  US$4  million)  and  (ii)  higher  effects  of
inventory adjustments on thermal coal in Mozambique in 2016 as compared to 2015 (impact
of US$165 million).

(cid:127) Our adjusted EBITDA from coal was a loss of US$54 million in 2016, while in 2015 we had a
loss of US$508 million, reflecting higher coal prices (impact of US$155 million) and lower
costs and expenses, adjusted by the impact of higher volumes and exchange rate variation
(impact of US$386 million).

Base metals

2017 compared to 2016

(cid:127) Our net operating revenues from sales of base metals totaled US$6.871 billion in 2017, a 12%
increase from US$6.139 billion in 2016. The increase was mainly driven by higher sales prices
for nickel (US$257 million), copper (US$642 million) and cobalt (US$138 million).

(cid:127) Our  cost  of  goods  sold  from  base  metals,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and
depletion, increased 3.3% on a constant currency basis. After adjusting for the effects of
lower volumes (US$94 million), costs increased by US$237 million compared to 2016 mainly
as a result of higher nickel costs (US$ 353 million) due to the transition to a simpler and more
efficient nickel flowsheet in the North Atlantic operations and the increase of nickel unit
costs because of lower production volumes. The cost increase was partially offset by lower
copper costs (US$ 116 million).

(cid:127) Our  net  expenses  from  base  metals,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and  depletion,
and excluding impairment charges, increased 89.20% on a constant currency basis, mainly
due to the one-off positive effects from goldstream transactions totaling US$150 million in
2016.

(cid:127) Our adjusted EBITDA from base metals was US$2.139 billion in 2017, a 15.7% increase from
the US$1.848 billion recorded in 2016. The increase was mainly due to higher realized prices
for  copper,  nickel  and  cobalt.  These  price  effects  were  partially  offset  by  higher  costs
(US$ 237 million), lower volumes (US$ 203 million), higher expenses (US$ 148 million), and
the unfavorable effect of exchange rate variations (US$ 150 million).

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12APR201813380467

2016 compared to 2015

Results of Operations

(cid:127) Our net operating revenues from sales of base metals totaled US$6.139 billion in 2016, a
0.4% decrease from US$6.163 billion in 2015. The decrease was mainly driven by lower nickel
prices (US$544 million), which were partially offset by higher sales of nickel (US$182 million)
and  copper  (US$144  million),  higher  prices  for  gold,  cobalt  and  silver  byproducts
(US$101 million) and higher volumes for gold, cobalt and silver byproducts (US$89 million).
The increase in nickel sales volumes was primarily driven by the ramp up of our operations in
New Caledonia and at Long Harbour. The increase in copper sales volumes was mainly the
result of higher copper production in Sudbury and the completed ramp up of operations at
Salobo.

(cid:127) Our  cost  of  goods  sold  from  base  metals,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and
depletion, decreased 1.1% on a constant currency basis. After adjusting for the effects of
higher  volumes  (US$260  million),  costs  decreased  by  US$305  million  compared  to  2015
mainly as a result of higher production in Sudbury and the conclusion of the ramp-up of
Salobo  operations  resulting  in  dilution  of  fixed  costs,  lower  fuel  costs  at  PTVI  and  lower
planned shutdown maintenance costs at our Canadian operations.

(cid:127) Our  net  expenses  from  base  metals,  excluding  depreciation,  amortization  and  depletion,
and excluding impairment charges, decreased 65.1% on a constant currency basis, mainly
due  to  lower  pre-operating  expenses  reflecting  the  full  transition  of  VNC  costs  from
pre-operating expenses to costs of goods sold (impact of US$287 million), partially offset by
the effects from goldstream transactions totaling US$150 million in 2016.

(cid:127) Our adjusted EBITDA from base metals was US$1.848 billion in 2016, a 33.1% increase from
2015. The increase was mainly due to lower expenses and costs (impact of US$617 million),
higher  nickel  and  copper  sales  volumes  (US$148  million)  and  exchange  variation
(US$126 million), which was partially offset by lower prices (US$431 million).

FINANCIAL RESULTS, NET

The  following  table  details  our  net  financial  results,  net,  from  continuing  operations  for  the  periods
indicated.

Year ended December 31,

2015

2016

2017

Financial income(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial expenses(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gains (losses) on derivatives, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign exchange gains (losses), net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Indexation losses, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

251
(1,068)
(2,477)
(7,044)
(316)

(US$ million)
170
(2,677)
1,256
3,252
(158)

Financial results, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(10,654)

1,843

481
(3,276)
454
(463)
(215)

(3,019)

(1)
(2)

Includes short-term investments and other financial income (see note 6 to our consolidated financial statements)
Includes loans and borrowings gross interest, capitalized loans and borrowing costs, financial expenses associated with labor, tax
and  civil  lawsuits,  participative  stockholders’  debentures,  expenses  of  REFIS  and  others  financial  expenses  (see  note  6  to  our
consolidated financial statements).

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Results of Operations

2017 compared to 2016.

In  2017,  our  financial  results,  net,  was  a  loss  of  US$3.019  billion,  compared  to  an  income  of
US$1.843 billion in 2016. This principally resulted from:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Net foreign exchange losses of US$463 million in 2017 compared to net foreign exchange
gains of US$3.252 billion in 2016, principally due to the depreciation of the Brazilian real
against the U.S. dollar.

The  net  effect  of  fair  value  changes  in  derivatives,  which  represented  a  gain  of
US$454 million in 2017 compared to a gain of US$1.256 billion in 2016. This reflected the
following main categories of derivatives transactions:

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

Currency and interest rate swaps. We recognized gains of US$313 million in 2017
from  currency  and  interest  rate  swaps,  compared  to  a  gain  of  US$959  million  in
2016.  These  swaps  are  primarily  used  to  convert  debt  denominated  in  other
currencies into U.S. dollars in order to protect our cash flow from exchange rate
volatility.

Nickel derivatives. We recognized a gain of US$30 million in 2017 compared to a loss
of US$42 million in 2016. These derivatives are part of our nickel price protection
program.

Bunker oil derivatives. We recognized a loss of US$80 million in 2017 compared to a
gain of US$268 million in 2016. These gains or losses resulted from the fair value of
the hedge contracts and the variation is due to the sharp volatility in the spot price
of bunker oil.

(cid:127)

A net indexation loss of US$215 million in 2017 compared to a net loss of US$158 million in
2016, mainly due to changes in discount rates on asset retirement obligation provisions.

2016 compared to 2015.

In  2016,  our  financial  results,  net,  was  income  of  US$1.843  billion,  compared  to  an  expense  of
US$10.654 billion in 2015. This principally resulted from:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

A decrease in financial income from US$251 million in 2015 to US$170 million in 2016, as a
result of a decrease in our average cash position in 2016, as compared to 2015.

An  increase  in  financial  expenses  of  US$1.609  billion,  from  US$1.068  billion  in  2015  to
US$2.677  billion  in  2016,  attributable  primarily  to  the  US$1.382  billion  increase  in  the
marked-to-market  fair  value  of  our  shareholder  debentures  due  to  an  increase  in
commodities price.

Net foreign exchange gains of US$3.252 billion in 2016 compared to net foreign exchange
losses of US$7.044 billion in 2015, principally due to the appreciation of the Brazilian real
against the U.S. dollar.

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(cid:127)

The  net  effect  of  fair  value  changes  in  derivatives,  which  represented  a  gain  of
US$1.256 billion in 2016 compared to a loss of US$2.477 billion in 2015. This reflected the
following main categories of derivatives transactions:

Results of Operations

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

Currency and interest rate swaps. We recognized gains of US$959 million in 2016
from currency and interest rate swaps, compared to a net loss of US$1.502 billion in
2015.  These  swaps  are  primarily  used  to  convert  debt  denominated  in  other
currencies into U.S. dollars in order to protect our cash flow from exchange rate
volatility.

Nickel derivatives. We recognized a loss of US$42 million in 2016 compared to a loss
of US$49 million in 2015. These derivatives are part of our nickel price protection
program.

Bunker oil derivatives. We recognized a gain of US$268 million in 2016 compared to
a loss of US$742 million in 2015. These gains or losses resulted from the marking to
market  of  the  hedge  contracts  on  bunker  oil  price;  for  2016,  we  had  entered  in
these contracts only in the last quarter of the year, when we resumed hedging the
bunker  oil  price  due  to  the  risk  of  increased  oil  prices  in  2017.  As  we  resumed
hedging bunker oil price in the last quarter of 2016, our financial results in 2017 will
be impacted by the changes in the fair value of the outstanding derivatives position
at  the  end  of  each  quarter.  These  derivatives  are  structured  to  minimize  the
volatility  of  the  cost  of  maritime  freight,  and  the  variation  is  due  to  the  sharp
volatility in the spot price of bunker oil.

(cid:127)

A net indexation loss of US$158 million in 2016 compared to a net loss of US$316 million in
2015, mainly due to changes in discount rates on asset retirement obligation provisions.

EQUITY RESULTS IN ASSOCIATES AND JOINT VENTURES

2017 compared to 2016.

Our equity results in associates and joint ventures in 2017 was a profit of US$98 million, compared to a
profit  of  US$309  million  in  2016,  mostly  due  to  negative  results  in  2017  from  our  equity  position  in
Companhia  Siderurgica  do  Pec ´em  (US$264  million  loss),  driven  by  foreign  exchange  losses  on  its  U.S.
dollar-denominated debt due to appreciation against the Brazilian real, compared to a positive result in
2016 from Companhia Siderurgica do Pec ´em (US$25 million profit).

2016 compared to 2015.

Our equity results in associates and joint ventures increased to a profit of US$309 million in 2016 from a
loss of US$445 million in 2015, mostly due to the positive results in 2016 from our equity positions in
Companhia Siderurgica do Pec ´em (US$25 million profit), MRN (US$48 million profit) and California Steel
Industries,  Inc.—CSI  (US$32  million  profit),  as  compared  to  the  negative  results  in  2015  from  Samarco
(US$167 million loss), Companhia Siderurgica do Pec ´em (US$307 million loss), CSI (US$27 million loss) and
Companhia Siderurgica do Atl ˆantico—CSA (US$80 million loss).

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IMPAIRMENT AND OTHER RESULTS IN ASSOCIATES AND JOINT VENTURES

2017 compared to 2016.

We  recognized  a  loss  resulting  from  impairment  and  other  results  in  associates  and  joint  ventures  of
US$180 million in 2017, which relates to our investment in Samarco. Samarco impairments were write-
downs  of  the  debt  instruments  used  to  fund  its  working  capital.  We  recognized  a  loss  resulting  from
impairment and other results in associates and joint ventures of US$1.220 billion in 2016, mainly due to
the impairment of US$1.109 billion in relation to Samarco. See Business overview—Failure of Samarco’s
tailings dam in Minas Gerais and note 21 to our consolidated financial statements.

2016 compared to 2015.

We  recognized  a  loss  resulting  from  impairment  and  other  results  in  associates  and  joint  ventures  of
US$1.220 billion in 2016, of which US$1.109 billion related to our investments in Samarco, US$75 million
resulted from the sale of CSA and US$36 million from the sale of Minera¸c ˜ao Paragominas. We recognized
a loss resulting from impairment and other results in associates and joint ventures of US$349 million in
2015,  of  which  US$446  million  related  to  impairment  from  our  investments  in  Teal  Minerals
(US$314 million) and Samarco (US$132 million), which was partially offset by a gain in the sale of our
participation in Shandong Yankuang (US$79 million), a coking coal producer, and a gain in the disposal of
energy generation assets (US$18 million).

RESULTS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

2017 compared to 2016.

In  2017,  we  had  a  net  loss  from  discontinued  operations  attributable  to  Vale’s  stockholders  of
USS$806 million, compared to a loss of US$1.229 billion in 2016. In December 2016, we entered into an
agreement with Mosaic to sell a significant part of our fertilizer business. In January 2018, we concluded
the  transaction  with  Mosaic,  which  was  preceded  by  final  adjustments  under  the  original  terms  and
conditions  of  the  negotiation.  As  consequence  of  these  adjustments,  an  impairment  loss  of
US$729 million was recognized in 2017. Additionally, in November 2017, we entered into an agreement
with Yara International ASA to sell our nitrogen assets located in Cubat ˜ao, Brazil and an impairment loss
of  US$156  million  was  recognized  in  2017.  For  more  information  on  our  discontinued  operations  see
note 14 to our consolidated financial statements.

2016 compared to 2015.

In  2016,  we  had  a  net  loss  from  discontinued  operations  attributable  to  Vale’s  stockholders  of
USS$1.229 billion, compared to a loss of US$200 million in 2015. In December 2016, we entered into an
agreement with Mosaic to sell a significant part of our fertilizer business. As a result of this transaction,
our fertilizer business is being reported as discontinued operations in our financial statements for the year
ended  December  31,  2016,  and  we  re-presented  our  financial  statements  for  the  years  ended
December 31, 2015 and 2014 accordingly. The net assets of our fertilizer business in our balance sheet as of
December 31, 2016 were adjusted to reflect their fair value minus the cost to sell the business, and we
recognized  a  loss  in  the  amount  of  US$1.738  billion  (US$1.147  billion,  net  of  taxes)  in  ‘‘loss  from
discontinued operations’’ in our income statement for the year ended December 31, 2016.

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Results of Operations

INCOME TAXES

2017 compared to 2016.

In 2017, we recorded net income tax expense of US$1.495 billion, compared to a net income tax expense
of US$2.781 billion in 2016. In 2017, our effective tax rate was 19.1%. The effective tax rate was slightly
different from the statutory rate mainly due to US$432 million of unrecognized tax on current year losses,
partially offset by the tax benefit from interest on stockholders’ equity and the tax incentives for our iron
ore,  copper  and  nickel  operations  in  the  North  and  Northeast  regions  of  Brazil.  The  incentives  are
calculated  based  on  the  taxable  income  of  the  incentive  activity  (tax  operating  income),  taking  into
account the allocation of tax operating income to different tranches of production during the periods
specified for each product. In 2017, this tax incentive structure reduced our net income tax expense by
US$1.100 billion.

2016 compared to 2015.

For 2016, we recorded net income tax expense of US$2.781 billion, compared to a net income tax gain of
US$5.249 billion in 2015. In 2016, our effective tax rate was 34.8%. The effective tax rate was slightly
different from the statutory rate mainly due to US$708 million of unrecognized tax on current year losses,
partially  offset  by  the  tax  incentives  for  our  iron  ore,  copper  and  nickel  operations  in  the  North  and
Northeast regions of Brazil. The incentives are calculated based on the taxable income of the incentive
activity (tax operating income), taking into account the allocation of tax operating income to different
tranches of production during the periods specified for each product. In 2016, this tax incentive structure
reduced our net income tax expense by US$344 million.

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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

OVERVIEW

In  the  ordinary  course  of  business,  our  principal  funding  requirements  are  for  capital  expenditures,
dividend  payments  and  debt  service.  We  have  historically  met  these  requirements  by  using  cash
generated from operating activities and borrowings, supplemented by dispositions of assets.

For 2018, we have budgeted capital expenditures of US$3.744 billion, including US$972 million for project
execution and US$2.865 billion for sustaining existing operations and replacement projects. A principal
amount of US$1.181 billion of our debt matures in 2018.

We  have  taken  measures  to  reduce  our  capital  expenditures,  and  we  are  constantly  evaluating
opportunities for additional cash generation. Also, we continue to consider the sale of certain assets and
investments, and joint ventures for certain of our businesses. Finally, we are committed to continue the
reduction in our costs and expenses, to reduce our debt leverage and to maintain discipline in capital
allocation.

SOURCES OF FUNDS

Our principal sources of funds are operating cash flow and borrowings, supplemented by disposition of
assets. The amount of operating cash flow is strongly affected by global prices for our products. In 2017,
our operating activities generated cash flows from continuing operations of US$12.450 billion, compared
to US$6.401 billion in 2016, primarily reflecting the increase in prices of iron ore.

In 2017, we borrowed US$1.450 billion. Our major transactions in 2017 are summarized below.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

In February 2017, our wholly owned subsidiary Vale Overseas Ltd. issued US$1.0 billion notes
due 2026, guaranteed by Vale S.A. These notes will be consolidated and form a single series
with Vale Overseas’ US$1 billion 6.250% notes due 2026 issued in August 2016.

In 2017, we borrowed US$450 million in pre-export financing agreements with commercial
banks.

In  2017,  we  received  US$1.221  billion  as  a  result  of  divestments  and  sales  of  interests  in  certain  joint
ventures and investments. The main divestment transactions in 2017 are described below:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

In August 2017 and in December 2017, we concluded the sale of a total of four very large ore
carriers of 400,000 DWT to Bank of Communications Finance Leasing Co., Ltd. (Bocomm) for
which we received US$356 million. In addition, in January 2017 we received US$70 million for
the sale of two capsize vessels to Polaris Shipping Co. Ltd. for US$35 million per vessel.

In  March  2017,  we  received  US$690  million  from  Mitsui  &  Co  Ltd.  associated  with  the
divestment of part of our interest in the Moatize coal mine and in the NLC.

USES OF FUNDS

In  the  ordinary  course  of  business,  our  principal  funding  requirements  are  for  capital  expenditures,
dividend payments and debt service.

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

Capital expenditures

Our  capital  expenditures  in  2017,  excluding  the  fertilizer  business,  amounted  to  US$3.848  billion,
including  US$1.617  billion  for  project  execution  and  US$2.231  billion  dedicated  to  sustaining  existing
operations.  For  more  information  about  the  specific  projects  for  which  we  have  budgeted  funds,  see
Information on the Company—Capital expenditures.

Distributions and repurchases

We paid a second tranche of dividends on the results of the 2016 fiscal year of R$4.667 billion (classified as
interest on shareholders’ equity) on April 28, 2017.

On March 15, 2018, we paid dividends on the results of the 2017 fiscal year of R$4.721 billion (classified as
interest on shareholders’ equity). We did not repurchase any of our shares in 2017.

Tax payments

We  paid  US$563  million  in  income  tax  in  2017,  excluding  the  payments  in  connection  with  REFIS,
compared to US$388 million in 2016. In connection with our participation in the REFIS, our outstanding
commitment totals US$5.375 billion, which will be paid in 130 monthly installments. In 2017, we paid a
total of US$488 million in connection with the REFIS.

Liability Management

In 2017, we repaid US$7.881 billion in debt. Our main liability management transactions in the year are
summarized below.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

The  full  redemption  of  Vale  Overseas’  US$1.000  billion  outstanding  5.625%  guaranteed
notes  due  2019  concurrently  with  a  cash  repurchase  of  US$501  million  of  Vale  Overseas’
outstanding 4.625% guaranteed notes due 2020.

The full redemption of Vale’s e750 million 4.375% notes due in March 2018.

The repayment of US$2.930 billion in pre-export payments facilities and US$1.747 billion in
Export Notes with commercial banks.

The repayment of US$840 million in loans with development agencies.

On March 14, 2018, we announced the full redemption of Vale Overseas’ 4.625% guaranteed notes due
2020 and a cash tender offer for Vale Overseas’ 5.875% guaranteed notes due 2021 (‘‘2021 Notes’’) and
4.375%  guaranteed  notes  due  2022  (‘‘2022  Notes’’).  On  March  22  and  March  23,  2018,  Vale  Overseas
repurchased a total of US$969 million in aggregate principal amount of its 2021 Notes in a cash tender
offer. On March 28, 2018, Vale Overseas repurchased US$781 million in aggregate principal amount of its
2022 Notes in a cash tender offer. Combined, the redemption and tender offers will allow us to repay an
aggregate principal amount of US$2.249 billion in debt.

DEBT

As of December 31, 2017, our total outstanding debt was US$22.489 billion (including US$21.955 billion of
principal and US$533 million of accrued interest) compared with US$29.322 billion at the end of 2016. As

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

of  December  31,  2017,  US$275  million  of  our  debt  was  secured  by  liens  on  some  of  our  assets.  As  of
December 31, 2017, the weighted average of the remaining term of our debt was 8.9 years, compared to
7.9 years in 2016.

As  of  December  31,  2017,  the  short-term  debt  and  the  current  portion  of  long-term  debt  was
US$1.703 billion, including accrued interest.

Our major categories of long-term indebtedness are described below. The principal amounts given below
include the current portion of long-term debt and exclude accrued interest.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

U.S.  dollar-denominated  loans  and  financing  (US$4.261  billion  as  of  December  31,  2017).
This category includes export financing lines, loans from export credit agencies, and loans
from commercial banks and multilateral organizations.

U.S. dollar-denominated fixed rate notes (US$12.448 billion as of December 31, 2017). We
have issued in public offerings several series of fixed-rate debt securities, directly by Vale and
through  our  finance  subsidiary  Vale  Overseas  Limited,  guaranteed  by  Vale,  totaling
US$12.048 billion. Our subsidiary Vale Canada has outstanding fixed rate debt in the amount
of US$400 million.

Euro-denominated  loans  and  financing  (US$240  million  as  of  December  31,  2017).  This
category includes loans from export credit agencies.

Euro-denominated  fixed  rate  notes  (US$900  million  as  of  December  31,  2017).  We  have
issued  in  public  offering  this  series  of  fixed  rate  debt  securities  denominated  in  Euro  an
amount of e750 million.

(cid:127) Other  debt  (US$4.106  billion  as  of  December  31,  2017).  We  have  outstanding  debt,
principally  owed  to  BNDES,  Brazilian  commercial  banks  and  infrastructure  debentures,
denominated in Brazilian reais and other currencies.

We have a variety of credit lines available, including the following, as of December 31, 2017:

(cid:127)

A R$10.050 billion (US$3.300 billion) financing agreement with BNDES to finance part of the
implementation of the S11D project and its infrastructure (CLN S11D). As of December 31,
2017, the total amount available under this facility was R$1.4 billion (US$423 million).

(cid:127) We  have  two  revolving  credit  facilities  with  syndicates  of  international  banks,  which  will
mature  in  2020  and  2022.  In  June  2017,  we  entered  into  a  five-year,  US$2.000  billion
syndicated revolving credit facility arranged by a syndicate composed of 18 global banks to
replace the five-year, US$2.000 billion line that we signed in 2013. The revolving credit lines
allow more efficient cash management, consistent with our strategic focus on cost of capital
reduction. As of December 31, 2017, we had not drawn any amounts under these facilities
and  the  total  amount  available  under  these  facilities  was  US$5.000  billion  (with
US$3.000 billion available until 2020), which can be drawn by Vale, Vale Canada and Vale
International.

Some  of  our  long-term  debt  instruments  contain  financial  covenants.  In  particular,  instruments
representing approximately 23% of the aggregate principal amount of our total debt require that we
maintain, as of the end of each quarter, (a) a consolidated ratio of total debt to adjusted EBITDA for the

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

past 12 months not exceeding 4.5 to one and (b) a consolidated interest coverage ratio of at least 2.0 to
one.  These  covenants  appear  in  our  financing  agreements  with  BNDES,  with  other  export  and
development agencies, and with some other lenders. As of December 31, 2017, (i) our consolidated ratio
of total debt to adjusted EBITDA for the past 12 months was 1.5 to one and (ii) our consolidated interest
coverage ratio was 9.0 to one.

As of December 31, 2017, the corporate guarantees we provided (corresponding to our direct or indirect
interest)  for  the  companies  Norte  Energia  S.A.  and  Companhia  Sider ´urgica  do  Pec ´em  S.A.  totaled
US$378 million and US$1.5 billion, respectively.

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CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2017. This table excludes
other common non-contractual obligations that we may have, including pension obligations, deferred
tax liabilities and contingent obligations arising from uncertain tax positions, all of which are discussed in
the notes to our consolidated financial statements.

Total

Less than
1 year

2019

2020

2021

Thereafter

Payments due by period

Debt less accrued interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest payments(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating lease obligations(2) . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase obligations(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

21,955
13,085
1,053
8,263

44,356

1,181
1,245
283
2,191

4,900

(US$ million)
1,750
1,149
192
1,021

4,112

2,575
1,090
179
686

4,530

2,623
945
178
604

4,350

13,826
8,656
221
3,761

26,464

(1)

Consists of estimated future payments of interest on our loans, financings and debentures, calculated based on interest rates and
foreign exchange rates applicable as of December 31, 2017 and assuming that (i) all amortization payments and payments at
maturity on our loans, financings and debentures will be made on their scheduled payments dates, and (ii) our perpetual bonds
are redeemed on the first permitted redemption date. Amounts do not include derivatives transactions.

(2) Amounts include fixed payments related to the operating lease contracts for the pellet plants.
(3)

The  purchase  obligations  derive  mainly  from  take-or-pay  contracts,  contracts  for  the  acquisition  of  fuel  and  energy  and  the
acquisition of raw materials and services. For more information, see note 31 to our consolidated financial statements.

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OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

As of December 31, 2017, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements as defined in the Form 20-F
not disclosed in our consolidated financial statements.

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

We believe that the following are our critical accounting policies. We consider an accounting policy to be
critical if it is important to our financial condition and results of operations and if it requires significant
judgments and estimates on the part of our management.

CONSOLIDATION

In some circumstances, our judgment is to determine whether, after considering all relevant factors, we
control, joint control or significant influence over an entity. Significant influence includes situations of
collective control. We hold the majority of the voting capital in five joint arrangements (Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao
de Energia S.A., Alian¸ca Norte Energia Participa¸c ˜oes S.A., Companhia Hispano-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao,
Companhia  ´Italo-Brasileira  de  Pelotiza¸c ˜ao  and  Companhia  Nipo-Brasileira  de  Pelotiza¸c ˜ao),  but  our
management  has  concluded  that  we  do  not  have  a  sufficiently  dominant  voting  interest  to  have  the
power to direct the activities of the entity, as the power to make relevant decisions are shared with other
parties, pursuant to the terms of shareholders’ agreements. As a result, these entities are accounted under
equity method.

MINERAL RESERVES AND USEFUL LIFE OF MINES

We regularly evaluate and update our estimates of proven and probable mineral reserves. Our proven
and  probable  mineral  reserves  are  determined  using  generally  accepted  estimation  techniques.
Calculating  our  reserves  requires  us  to  make  assumptions  about  future  conditions  that  are  uncertain,
including future ore and metal prices, currency prices, inflation rates, mining technology, availability of
permits, production and capital costs. Changes in some or all of these assumptions could have a significant
impact on our recorded proven and probable reserves.

The estimated volume of mineral reserves is used as basis for the calculation of depletion of the mineral
properties and also for the estimated useful life, which is a major factor to quantify the provision for asset
retirement  obligation,  environmental  recovery  of  mines  and  impairment  of  long-lived  assets.  Any
changes  to  the  estimates  of  the  volume  of  mine  reserves  and  the  useful  lives  of  assets  may  have  a
significant  impact  on  the  depreciation,  depletion  and  amortization  charges  and  assessments  of
impairment.

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATION

Expenditures  relating  to  ongoing  compliance  with  environmental  regulations  are  charged  against
earnings  or  capitalized  as  appropriate.  These  ongoing  programs  are  designed  to  minimize  the
environmental impact of our activities.

We recognize a liability for the fair value of our estimated asset retirement obligations in the period in
which they are incurred, if a reasonable estimate can be made. We consider the accounting estimates
related to reclamation and closure costs to be critical accounting estimates because:

(cid:127) we will not incur most of these costs for a number of years, requiring us to make estimates

over a long period;

(cid:127)

reclamation and closure laws and regulations could change in the future or circumstances
affecting our operations could change, either of which could result in significant changes to
our current plans;

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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

calculating  the  fair  value  of  our  asset  retirement  obligations  requires  us  to  assign
probabilities to projected cash flows, to make long-term assumptions about inflation rates,
to determine the applicable discount rates that reflect the current market assessments of the
time value of the money and the risks specific to the liability; and

given the significance of these factors in the determination of our estimated environmental
and site reclamation costs, changes in any or all of these estimates could have a material
impact on net income. In particular, given the long periods over which many of these charges
are discounted to present value, changes in our assumptions about credit-adjusted risk-free
interest rates could have a significant impact on the size of our provision.

Our executive officers define the policies and procedures that are used to evaluate our asset retirement
obligations. The future costs of retirement of our mines and processing assets at all our sites are reviewed
annually, in each case considering the actual stage of exhaustion and the projected exhaustion date of
each mine and site. The future estimated retirement costs are discounted using applicable discount rates
that reflect current market assessments of the time value of money and of the risks specific to the liability.

As  of  December  31,  2017,  we  estimated  the  fair  value  of  our  total  asset  retirement  obligations  to  be
US$3.168 billion.

IMPAIRMENT OF NON-CURRENT ASSETS AND ONEROUS CONTRACTS

Non-financial assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate
that the carrying amount might not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized for the amount by
which the asset’s carrying value exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of
an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal (‘‘FVLCD’’) and value in use (‘‘VIU’’).

FVLCD is generally determined as the present value of the estimated future cash flows expected to arise
from the continued use of the asset, including any expansion prospects, and its eventual disposal. VIU
model is determined as the present value of the estimated future cash flows expected to arise from the
continued use of the asset in its present form. VIU is determined by applying assumptions specific to the
company’s  continued  use  and  cannot  take  into  account  future  development.  These  assumptions  are
different to those used in calculating fair value and consequently the VIU calculation is likely to give a
different result to a FVLCD calculation.

Assets that have an indefinite useful life and are not subject to amortization, such as goodwill, are tested
annually for impairment.

For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are
separately identifiable cash flows (Cash Generating Units (‘‘CGUs’’)). Goodwill is allocated to CGUs or CGU
groups that are expected to benefit from the business combinations in which the goodwill arose and are
identified in accordance with the operating segment.

Non-current assets (excluding goodwill) in which the company recognized impairment in the past are
reviewed whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the impairment may no longer be
applicable. In such cases, an impairment reversal will be recognized.

For  onerous  contracts,  a  provision  is  recognized  for  the  present  value  of  certain  long-term  contracts
where the unavoidable cost of meeting the company’s obligations exceed the economic benefits to be
received under it.

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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

FAIR VALUES OF DERIVATIVES AND OTHER FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Derivatives transactions that are not qualified for hedge accounting are classified and presented as an
economic  hedge,  as  we  use  derivative  instruments  to  manage  our  financial  risks  as  a  way  of  hedging
against these risks. Derivative financial instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities in the balance
sheet  and  are  measured  at  their  fair  values.  Changes  in  the  fair  values  of  derivatives  are  recorded  in
income  statement  or  in  stockholders’  equity  when  the  transaction  is  eligible  for  effective  hedge
accounting.

We  use  well-known  market  participants’  valuation  methodologies  to  compute  the  fair  value  of
instruments. To evaluate the financial instruments, we use estimates and judgments related to present
values, taking into account market curves, projected interest rates, exchange rates, counterparty (credit)
risk adjustments, forward market prices and their respective volatilities, when applicable. We evaluate the
impact of credit risk on financial instruments and derivative transactions, and we enter into transactions
with financial institutions that we consider to have a high credit quality. The financial institution’s credit
risk tracking is performed making use of a credit risk valuation methodology that considers, among other
information,  published  ratings  provided  by  international  rating  agencies  and  other  management
judgments.

DEFERRED INCOME TAXES

We recognize deferred tax effects of tax loss carryforwards and temporary differences in our consolidated
financial statements. We record a valuation allowance when we believe that it is probable that tax assets
will not be fully recoverable in the future.

Deferred tax assets arising from tax losses, negative social contribution basis and temporary differences
are  registered  taking  into  consideration  the  analysis  of  future  performance,  based  on  economic  and
financial  projections,  prepared  based  on  internal  assumptions  and  macroeconomic,  trade  and  tax
scenarios that may be subject to changes in future.

When  we  prepare  our  consolidated  financial  statements,  the  provision  for  income  tax  is  calculated
individually for each entity of the Company based on Brazilian tax rates, on an accrual basis, by applying
the differential between the nominal local tax rates (based on rules in force in the location of the entity)
and the Brazilian rate.

Determining our provision for income taxes and our deferred tax assets and liabilities requires significant
management judgment, estimates and assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain. For each
income  tax  asset,  we  evaluate  the  likelihood  of  whether  some  portion  or  the  entire  asset  will  not  be
realized. Deferred tax assets recognized in relation to accumulated tax loss carryforwards depends on our
assessment of the probability of generation of future taxable profits within the legal entity in which the
related  deferred  tax  asset  is  recorded,  based  on  our  production  and  sales  plans,  commodity  prices,
operating costs, environmental costs, group restructuring plans for subsidiaries and site reclamation costs
and planned capital costs.

LITIGATION

We disclose material contingent liabilities unless the possibility of any loss arising is considered remote,
and we disclose material contingent assets where the inflow of economic benefits is probable. We discuss
our material contingencies in note 27 to our consolidated financial statements.

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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

We record an estimated loss from a loss contingency when information available prior to the issuance of
our financial statements indicates that it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle
an obligation, and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. In particular, given the nature of
Brazilian  tax  legislation,  the  assessment  of  potential  tax  liabilities  requires  significant  management
judgment. By their nature, contingencies will only be resolved when one or more future events occurs or
fails  to  occur,  and  typically  those  events  will  occur  a  number  of  years  in  the  future.  Assessing  such
liabilities, particularly in the Brazilian legal environment, inherently involves the exercise of significant
management judgment and estimates of the outcome of future events.

The provision for litigation as of December 31, 2017, totaling US$1.473 billion, consists of provisions of
US$582  million  for  labor,  US$131  million  for  civil,  US$750  million  for  tax  and  US$10  million  for
environmental claims. Claims for which the likelihood of loss, in our opinion and based on the advice of
our legal counsel, is reasonably possible but not probable, and for which we have not made provisions,
amounted to a total of US$14.605 billion as of December 31, 2017, including claims of US$1.952 billion for
labor  claims,  US$1.623  billion  for  civil  claims,  US$8.840  billion  for  tax  claims  and  US$2.190  billion  for
environmental claims.

EMPLOYEE POST-RETIREMENT BENEFITS

We  sponsor  defined  benefit  pension  and  other  post-retirement  benefit  plans  covering  some  of  our
employees. The determination of the amount of our obligations for these benefits depends on certain
actuarial  assumptions.  These  assumptions  are  described  in  note  28  to  our  consolidated  financial
statements and include, among others, the discount rate, the expected long-term rate of return on plan
assets and increases in salaries.

PROVISION RELATED TO SAMARCO MINERA ¸C ˜AO S.A.

The provision requires the use of assumptions that may be mainly affected by: (i) changes in scope of work
required  under  the  Framework  Agreement  as  result  of  further  technical  analysis,  (ii)  uncertainty
regarding  the  timing  of  resumption  of  Samarco’s  operations;  (iii)  updates  in  the  discount  rate;  and
(iv) resolution of existing and potential legal claims. As a result, future expenditures may differ from the
amounts  currently  provided  and  changes  to  key  assumptions  could  result  in  a  material  impact  to  the
amount of the provision in future reporting periods. For each reporting period, we will reassess the key
assumptions used by Samarco in the preparation of the projected cash flows and will adjust the provision,
if required.

DEFERRED REVENUE—GOLD STREAM TRANSACTION

Defining the gain on sale of mineral interest and the deferred revenue portion of the transaction requires
the use of critical accounting estimates as follows: (i) discount rates used to measure the present value of
future inflows and outflows; (ii) allocation of costs between nickel or copper and gold based on relative
prices; and (iii) expected margin for the independent elements (sale of mineral rights and service for gold
extraction) based on our best estimate.

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RISK MANAGEMENT

The  purpose  of  our  risk  management  strategy  is  to  promote  enterprise-wide  risk  management  that
supports the achievement of our objectives, financial strength and flexibility and business continuity.

We developed an integrated framework for managing risk, which considers the impact on our business of
not  only  market  risk  factors  (market  risk),  but  also  risks  associated  with  inadequate  or  failed  internal
processes, people, systems or external events (operational risk), risks arising from third-party obligations
(credit risk), risks from exposure to legal penalties, fines or reputational losses associated with failure to
act  in  accordance  with  applicable  laws  and  regulations,  internal  policies  or  best  practices  (compliance
risk),  and  risks  associated  with  political  and  regulatory  conditions  in  countries  in  which  we  operate
(political risk), among others.

In order to achieve this objective and to further improve our corporate governance practices, our Board of
Directors has established a company-wide risk management policy and a Compliance and Risk Committee.
The risk management policy requires that we regularly evaluate and monitor the corporate risks on a
consolidated  basis  in  order  to  guarantee  that  our  overall  risk  level  remains  in  accordance  with  our
strategic guidelines.

See note 32 to our consolidated financial statements for quantitative information about risks relating to
financial  instruments,  including  financial  instruments  entered  into  pursuant  to  our  risk  management
policies.

MARKET RISK

We  are  exposed  to  various  market  risk  factors  that  can  impact  our  cash  flow.  An  assessment  of  the
potential  impact  of  the  consolidated  market  risk  exposure  is  performed  periodically  to  support  the
decision  making  process  regarding  the  risk  management  strategy,  which  may  incorporate  financial
instruments, including derivatives. The financial instrument portfolio is monitored on a monthly basis,
enabling us to properly evaluate financial results and their impact on cash flow, and ensure correlation
between the strategies implemented and the proposed objectives.

Considering the nature of our business and operations, the main market risk factors that we are exposed
to are:

(cid:127)

Foreign exchange rates and interest rates. Our cash flows are exposed to the volatility of
several currencies against the U.S. dollar and of interest rate on loans and financings. While
most of our product prices are indexed to U.S. dollars, most of our costs, disbursements and
investments are indexed to currencies other than the U.S. dollar, principally the Brazilian real
and the Canadian dollar. We also have debt instruments denominated in currencies other
than  U.S.  dollars,  mainly  in  Brazilian  reais  and  euros.  We  may  use  swaps  and  forward
transactions  to  convert  into  U.S.  dollars  a  portion  of  the  cash  outflows  of  these  debt
instruments.

Our floating rate debt consists mainly of loans including export pre-payments, commercial
bank loans and multilateral organization loans. In general, the U.S. dollar floating rate debt
is  subject  to  changes  to  LIBOR  (London  Interbank  Offer  Rate)  in  U.S.  dollars.  We  take
advantage of the potential correlation between commodity prices and U.S. dollar floating
interest rates as a partial natural hedge for this risk.

(cid:127)

Product  prices  and  input  costs.  We  are  also  exposed  to  market  risks  associated  with
commodities price volatilities. We may enact risk mitigation programs: (i) in situations where

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Risk Management

there is a risk of financial distress; (ii) to support commercial activities and specific needs of
our business segments; and (iii) to protect from the increase of certain cost items, such as
bunker  oil  and  freight  chartering.  These  programs  include  predominantly  forward
transactions, futures contracts and options.

OPERATIONAL RISK

Operational  risk  management  is  the  structured  approach  we  take  to  manage  uncertainty  related  to
internal and external events. Internal events consist of inadequate or failed internal processes, people and
systems, while external events include natural or third party-caused operational catastrophes, regulatory,
political, economic or social actions taken by governments or other key stakeholders.

We mitigate operational risk with new controls and improvement of existing ones, new mitigation plans
and transfer of risk through insurance. We seek a clear view of the major risks we are exposed to, the
cost-benefit on mitigation plans and the controls in place to closely monitor the impact of operational
risks and to efficiently allocate capital to reduce it.

CREDIT RISK

We are exposed to credit risk arising from trade receivables, derivative transactions, guarantees, down
payment for suppliers and cash investments. Our credit risk management process provides a framework
for assessing and managing counterparties’ credit risk and for maintaining our risk at an acceptable level.

Commercial credit risk management

We assign an internal credit rating and a credit limit to each counterparty using our own quantitative
methodology for credit risk analysis, which is based on market prices, external credit ratings and financial
information of the counterparty, as well as qualitative information regarding the counterparty’s strategic
position and history of commercial relations.

Based on the counterparty’s credit risk, risk mitigation strategies may be used to manage our credit risk.
The  main  credit  risk  mitigation  strategies  include  non-recourse  discount  of  receivables,  insurance
instruments, letters of credit, corporate and bank guarantees, mortgages, among others.

From a geographic standpoint, we have a diversified accounts receivable portfolio, with Asia, Europe and
Brazil, the regions with the most significant exposure. According to each region, different guarantees can
be used to enhance the credit quality of the receivables. We monitor the counterparty exposure in the
portfolio periodically and we block additional sales to customers in delinquency.

Treasury credit risk management

To manage the credit exposure arising from cash investments and derivative instruments, credit limits are
approved to each counterparty to which we have credit exposure. We control the portfolio diversification
and  monitor  different  indicators  of  solvency  and  liquidity  of  our  different  counterparties  that  were
approved for trading.

COMPLIANCE RISK

Political exposure

Under  our  bylaws,  we  are  prohibited  from  making,  directly  or  indirectly  through  third  parties,  any
contribution to political movements in Brazil or abroad, including those organized as political parties, and
to their representatives or candidates.

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IV.

SHARE OWNERSHIP AND TRADING

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS

Our corporate capital is currently composed of 5,284,474,770 common shares and 12 golden shares issued
to the Brazilian government. The 12 golden shares have veto powers over certain actions, such as changes
to our name, the location of our headquarters and our corporate purpose as it relates to mining activities.

The following table sets forth information regarding ownership of Vale shares by the shareholders we
know beneficially own more than 5% of our outstanding capital stock, and by our directors and executive
officers as a group, as of December 31, 2017.

Litel Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bradespar S.A.(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mitsui . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BNDESPAR(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital Research and Management Company(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BlackRock, Inc.(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Directors and executive officers as a group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,011,456,740
332,965,266
286,347,055
401,457,757
427,924,638
316,135,263
608,285

19.5%
6.4%
5.5%
7.7%
8.1%
6.0%
Less than 1%

Common shares owned

% of class

(1)

(2)
(3)

Bradespar is controlled by a control group consisting of Cidade de Deus—Cia. Comercial Participa¸c ˜oes, Funda¸c ˜ao Bradesco, NCF
Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. and Nova Cidade de Deus Participa¸c ˜oes S.A.
BNDESPAR is a wholly owned subsidiary of BNDES.
Capital Research and Management Company administers, through its independent investment divisions Capital Research Global
Investors,  Capital  International  Investors  and  Capital  World  Investors,  respectively,  231,673,494  common  shares,  148,509,034
common shares and 47,742,110 common shares, corresponding to, respectively, 4.4%, 2.8% and 0.9% of our share capital.

(4) As reported in BlackRock, Inc.’s beneficial ownership report on Schedule 13G, filed with the SEC on February 1, 2018.

The table below sets forth information regarding ownership of Litel Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. as of December 31,
2017.

Litel Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. shareholders(1)

BB Carteira Ativa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Carteira Ativa II FIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PETROS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Singular FIA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

222,125,666
31,688,469
19,115,854
2,583,921
439

80.62
11.50
6.94
0.94
0.00

Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

275,514,349

100.00%

Common shares owned % of class

(1)

Each of BB Carteira Ativa, Carteira Ativa II and Singular FIA is a Brazilian investment fund. BB Carteira Ativa is 100.00% owned by
PREVI. Carteira Ativa II is 100% owned by Funcef. Singular FIA is 100% owned by Fundo de Investimentos em Cotas de Fundo de
Investimento em A¸c ˜oes VRD, which in turn is 100% owned by Funcesp. Each of PREVI, Funcef, Petros and Funcesp is a Brazilian
pension fund, managing pension plans of employees of Banco do Brasil, Caixa Econ ˆomica Federal, Petr ´oleo Brasileiro S.A. and Cia.
Energ ´etica do Estado de S ˜ao Paulo, respectively.

CHANGES IN OUR SHAREHOLDING STRUCTURE

In  2017,  we  successfully  completed  a  series  of  measures  to  simplify  our  shareholding  structure  and
enhance our corporate governance. These measures are summarized below:

(cid:127)

In August 2017, we concluded a voluntary conversion of our preferred class A shares into
common shares (and ADSs representing our preferred class A shares into ADSs representing
our  common  shares)  at  a  fixed  exchange  ratio  based  on  the  volume-weighted  average
market prices over the last 30 trading sessions on the B3 prior to February 19, 2017. During

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the conversion period from June 28 to August 11, 2017, 84.4% of holders of preferred class A
shares  (and  ADSs  representing  preferred  class  A  shares)  chose  to  convert  into  common
shares,  while  those  that  did  not  elect  voluntary  conversion  remained  outstanding  at  this
initial stage.

(cid:127)

In August 2017, shareholders’ amendments to our bylaws became effective to provide for:

i. at least 20% of our board of directors to be composed of independent directors;

ii. mandatory tender offer to all shareholders in case of sale of control;

iii. mandatory  tender  offer  in  case  any  shareholder  or  group  of  shareholders  acquires
common shares in an amount equal to or greater than 25% of our total common shares;

iv. any  disputes  between  us  and  our  shareholders  be  resolved  by  arbitration  before  the

B3 arbitration chamber.

(cid:127)

In October 2017, our shareholders approved the conversion of the 307,140,096 remaining
preferred class A shares into common shares at the same ratio applicable to the voluntary
conversion  of  0.9342  common  share  for  each  preferred  share.  As  a  result,  all  remaining
preferred class A shares were removed from trading on the B3 as of November 24, 2017 and
all ADSs representing preferred class A shares were removed from trading on the NYSE as of
November 27, 2017.

In August 2017, we concluded the merger of Valepar into Vale at an exchange ratio that contemplated a
10% increase in the number of shares held by the shareholders of Valepar, and represented a dilution of
approximately 3% of the shareholding interest held by the other shareholders of Vale. As a result, we
issued  173,543,667  new  common  shares,  all  registered  and  without  par  value,  in  favor  of  Valepar’s
shareholders (1.2065 of our common shares for each Valepar share held by them). Consequently, Valepar’s
shareholders own 36.72% of our outstanding common stock after the merger of Valepar. At the time of
the merger, Valepar held enough cash and cash equivalents to fully settle its liabilities. The R$3,073 million
goodwill balance carried on Valepar’s financial statements was not subject to capitalization in favor of
Valepar’s shareholders but instead used for the benefit of all of our shareholders.

(cid:127) On December 22, 2017, we completed our listing on the Novo Mercado segment of B3, the
special listing segment of B3 for companies committed to the highest standards of corporate
governance;

SHAREHOLDERS’ AGREEMENT

On August 14, 2017, Litel, Bradespar, Mitsui and BNDESPAR executed the Shareholders’ Agreement, by
means of which they undertake to vote jointly on certain issues. The following are key provisions of the
Shareholders’ Agreement:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Term: The Shareholders’ Agreement will be effective until November 9, 2020.

Shares subject to the agreement: The Shareholders’ Agreement will only apply to a portion
of the common shares of Vale to be owned by the parties thereto, in a total amount of 20%
of  Vale’s  common  shares  (not  including  treasury  shares).  However,  in  any  general
shareholders’  meeting,  common  shares  owned  by  the  parties  to  the  Shareholders’

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Major Shareholders

Agreement but not subject to the agreement must be voted in accordance with the shares
subject to the agreement.

(cid:127)

Shareholders’  prior  meetings: The  Shareholders’  Agreement  does  not  require  meetings
thereunder prior to each meeting of the Vale Board of Directors or general shareholders’
meeting, unless convened any of the parties to the proposed Vale shareholders’ agreement.

(cid:127) Qualified  quorum  matters: The  Shareholders’  Agreement  requires  approval,  in  a  prior
meeting, of shareholders holding at least 75% of the shares subject to the agreement owned
by the parties in attendance for approval of the following matters, among others:

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

any amendment of Vale’s bylaws;

any increase or reduction of Vale’s capital stock;

any issuance of debentures of Vale, whether or not convertible into shares of Vale,
call options (b ˆonus de subscri¸c ˜ao) or any other security of Vale;

any amalgamation, spin-off or merger to which Vale is a party, as well as any change
to Vale’s corporate form;

any  dissolution,  receivership,  bankruptcy  or  any  other  voluntary  act  for  financial
reorganization of Vale or the suspension of any of these proceedings;

the  removal  of  any  member  of  Vale’s  Board  of  Directors,  and  the  election  and
removal of any executive officer of Vale;

the  approval  of  the  aggregate  and  individual  compensation  of  members  of  the
Board  of  Directors,  Board  of  Executive  Officers,  Fiscal  Council  and  advisory
committees;

creation of companies by Vale, the conversion of currently existing companies into
another  types  of  legal  entity,  the  direct  or  indirect  acquisition  or  disposition  of
Vale’s interests in the capital stock of other companies or entities, including through
mergers and spin-offs, as well as the amendment of the corporate documents of
these legal entities, whenever the amount involved is equal or greater than 1% of
Vale’s  shareholders’  equity,  based  on  Vale’s  most  recent  quarterly  financial
information;

the  distribution  or  non-distribution  of  any  dividends  (including  distributions
classified as interest on shareholders’ equity) on any shares of capital stock of Vale
other than 50% of the net income;

the  creation  of  any  security  interest  or  guarantee  by  Vale  to  any  third  parties,
including companies controlled by or affiliated with Vale, except for subsidiaries of
which Vale owns at least 99% of the capital stock;

the approval of Vale’s maximum limit of indebtedness;

the  approval  of  Vale’s  strategic  guidelines  and  plan,  as  well  as  annual  and
pluriannual budgets and fundraising plan;

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(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

(cid:4)

any investments or divestments by Vale, as well as any investment agreements, in an
amount equal to or greater than 1% of Vale’s shareholders’ equity, based on Vale’s
most recent quarterly financial information;

the approval of any related-party transactions policy;

the disposal of fixed assets of Vale in an amount exceeding (a) separately, 0.15% of
Vale’s total assets, or (b) in the aggregate, in a twelve-month period, 0.5% of Vale’s
total assets, based on Vale’s most recent quarterly financial information;

the cancellation of Vale’s listing or the reduction of Vale’s listing level on the B3; and

the  appointment  and  removal  by  Vale’s  Board  of  Executive  Officers  of  the  chief
executive officer in subsidiaries, companies affiliated with Vale or other companies
in which Vale is entitled to appoint the chief executive officer.

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RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

We  have  a  policy  on  related  party  transactions,  which  sets  forth  rules  and  principles  to  ensure
transparency  and  arm’s-length  terms  in  our  transactions  with  related  parties  and  other  situations  of
potential conflicts of interest. The definition of related party is based on applicable accounting standards
and on this internal policy, which may be more restrictive than applicable laws and regulations under
certain  circumstances.  Pursuant  to  that  policy  and  our  bylaws,  our  Compliance  and  Risk  Committee  is
responsible for issuing reports about potential conflicts of interest between us and our shareholders or
management and for reviewing the procedure and terms of related party transactions that are submitted
to  our  Board  of  Directors  for  approval.  Under  the  policy,  if  we  identify  a  conflict  of  interest  with  a
shareholder, then that shareholder or its representative may not participate in any discussions related to
the transaction at any shareholders’ meeting and will only have access to publicly available information
about the matter. The policy also prohibits the extension of any loans to related parties other than our
subsidiaries and affiliated companies. For information regarding investments in associate companies and
joint ventures and for information regarding transactions with major related parties, see notes 15 and 30
of our consolidated financial statements.

We have engaged, and expect to continue to engage, in arm’s-length transactions with certain entities
controlled by, or affiliated with, our principal shareholders, including the following:

BRADESCO

Bradespar is controlled by a group of entities that also control Banco Bradesco S.A. (‘‘Bradesco’’). Bradesco
and its affiliates are full-service financial institutions that have performed, and may perform in the future,
investment banking, advisory or general financing and banking services for us and our affiliates, from
time  to  time,  in  the  ordinary  course  of  business.  An  affiliate  of  Bradesco  owns  preferred  shares
representing 36.4% of the total capital of our subsidiary MBR.

BANCO DO BRASIL

Previ, a pension fund of the employees of Banco do Brasil S.A. (‘‘Banco do Brasil’’), owns 100% of the
investment  fund  BB  Carteira  Ativa,  which  holds  the  majority  of  the  common  equity  of  Litel
Participa¸c ˜oes S.A., which in turn holds 19.5% of the common shares of Vale. Banco do Brasil appoints
three out of the six members of Previ’s senior management. An affiliate of Banco do Brasil is the manager
of BB Carteira Ativa. Banco do Brasil is also a full-service financial institution, and Banco do Brasil and its
affiliates  have  performed,  and  may  perform  in  the  future,  investment  banking,  advisory  or  general
financing  and  banking  services  for  us  and  our  affiliates,  from  time  to  time,  in  the  ordinary  course  of
business.

MITSUI

We have commercial relationships in the ordinary course of our business with Mitsui, a large Japanese
conglomerate. Mitsui has direct investments in some of our subsidiaries, joint ventures and associated
companies. Mitsui is also our joint venture partner at VLI. Mitsui has an indirect stake in Vale Mozambique
and Nacala Corridor Holding, which controls the coal operations (mine, rail and port) in Mozambique (see
Information on the Company—Business overview—Significant changes in our business).

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Related Party Transactions

BNDES

BNDES  is  the  Brazilian  state-owned  development  bank  and  the  parent  company  of  one  of  our  major
shareholders, BNDESPAR. Below is a description of our main transactions with BNDES:

We and BNDES are parties to a contract relating to authorizations for mining exploration. This contract,
which we refer to as the Mineral Risk Contract, provides for the joint development of certain unexplored
mineral  deposits  that  form  part  of  our  Northern  System,  except  for  our  iron  ore  and  manganese  ore
deposits which were specifically excluded from the contract, as well as proportional participation in any
profits earned from the development of such resources. In 2007, the Mineral Risk Contract was extended
indefinitely,  with  specific  rules  for  all  exploration  projects  and  exploration  targets  and  mineral  rights
covered under the contract.

BNDES has provided us with credit lines of R$3.9 billion (US$1.2 billion) financing for our CLN 150 Mtpy
project and a R$6.2 billion (US$1.9 billion) financing for our S11D project and its infrastructure (CLN S11D).
For  more  information  on  our  transactions  with  BNDES,  see  Operating  and  financial  review  and
prospects—Liquidity and capital resources.

BNDES  holds  a  total  of  R$1.104  billion  (US$334  million),  in  debentures  of  our  subsidiary  Salobo
Metais S.A., with a right to subscribe for Salobo’s preferred shares in exchange for part of the outstanding
debentures, which right expires two years after Salobo reaches an accumulated revenue equivalent to
200,000 tons of copper.

BNDES holds debentures issued by Vale exchangeable into common shares of VLI.

BNDESPAR  is  in  the  control  group  of  several  Brazilian  companies  with  which  we  have  commercial
relationships in the ordinary course of our business.

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DISTRIBUTIONS

Our  current  dividend  policy  was  approved  by  shareholders  at  the  shareholders’  meeting  held  on
March 29, 2018. Distributions may be classified as ‘‘dividends’’ or ‘‘interest on shareholders’ equity,’’ for
Brazilian  tax  purposes,  and  references  to  ‘‘dividends’’  should  be  understood  to  cover  all  distributions,
regardless of their classification, unless otherwise stated.

Pursuant to our dividend policy, dividends will be paid in two installments: the first in September of each
year and the second in March of the following year. The minimum amount of dividends is determined as
30% of the difference between Adjusted EBITDA and capital investments dedicated to sustaining existing
operations,  calculated  based  on  the  first  semester  results  for  the  first  installment  and  on  the  second
semester results for the second installment. The Board of Directors may declare interest on shareholders’
equity in December of each year, for payment in March of the following year, in which case the amount of
the  second  installment  of  dividends  would  be  reduced  by  the  amount  distributed  as  interest  on
shareholders’  equity.  The  Board  of  Directors  may  also  choose  to  provide  additional  remuneration  to
shareholders via distribution of extraordinary dividends.

Under Brazilian law and our bylaws, we are required to distribute to our shareholders an annual amount
equal to not less than 25% of the distributable amount, referred to as the mandatory dividend, unless the
Board of Directors advises our shareholders at our shareholders’ meeting that payment of the mandatory
dividend  for  the  preceding  year  is  inadvisable  in  light  of  our  financial  condition.  For  a  discussion  of
dividend  distribution  provisions  under  Brazilian  corporate  law  and  our  bylaws,  see  Additional
information.

The  tax  regime  applicable  to  distributions  to  ADR  and  to  non-resident  shareholders  will  depend  on
whether  those  distributions  are  classified  as  dividends  or  as  interest  on  shareholders’  equity.  See
Additional information—Taxation—Brazilian tax considerations.

By law, we are required to hold an annual shareholders’ meeting by April 30 of each year at which an
annual dividend may be declared. Additionally, our Board of Directors may declare interim dividends.
Under Brazilian corporate law, dividends are generally required to be paid to the holder of record on a
dividend  declaration  date  within  60  days  following  the  date  the  dividend  was  declared,  unless  a
shareholders’ resolution sets forth another date of payment, which, in either case, must occur prior to the
end of the fiscal year in which the dividend was declared. A shareholder has a three-year period from the
dividend payment date to claim dividends (or payments of interest on shareholders’ equity) in respect of
its shares, after which we will have no liability for such payments.

We make cash distributions on the common shares underlying the ADSs in reais to the custodian on behalf
of  the  depositary.  The  custodian  then  converts  such  proceeds  into  U.S.  dollars  and  transfers  such
U.S. dollars to be delivered to the depositary for distribution to holders of ADRs net of the depositary’s
fees.  For  information  on  taxation  of  dividend  distributions,  see  Additional  information—Taxation—
Brazilian tax considerations.

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Distributions

The following table sets forth the cash distributions we paid to holders of common shares and preferred
shares for the periods indicated. Amounts have been restated to give effect to stock splits that we carried
out in subsequent periods. Amounts are stated before any applicable withholding tax.

Year

Payment date

Dividends

Interest on equity

Total

U.S. dollars per share(1)

Reais per share

U.S. dollars total(1)
(US$ million)

2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

April 30
October 31
April 30
October 31
April 30
October 31
December 16
April 28
March 15

0.15
0.12
–
0.34
–
0.37
–
–
–

0.71
0.82
0.90
0.65
0.60
–
0.17
0.91
0.91

0.86
0.94
0.90
0.99
0.60
0.37
0.17
0.91
0.91

0.44
0.44
0.41
0.41
0.19
0.10
0.05
0.28(2)
0.28(2)

2,250
2,250
2,100
2,100
1,000
500
250
1,470(2)
1,451(2)

(1) As approved by the Board of Directors.
(2)

Calculated based on the exchange rate for the US dollar (Ptax-Option 5) published by the Central Bank of Brazil (BCB), on the day
prior to payment.

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TRADING MARKETS

Our publicly traded share capital consists of common shares, without par value. Our common shares are
publicly traded in Brazil on the B3, under the ticker symbol VALE3. Our common shares also trade on the
LATIBEX, under the ticker symbols XVALO. The LATIBEX is a non-regulated electronic market created in
1999 by the Madrid stock exchange in order to enable trading of Latin American equity securities.

Our common ADSs, each representing one common share, are traded on the New York Stock Exchange
(‘‘NYSE’’), under the ticker symbol VALE. Our common ADSs are traded on Euronext Paris under the ticker
symbol VALE3. Citibank N.A. serves as the depositary for both the common ADSs. On February 28, 2018,
there were 1,291,791,211 common ADSs outstanding, representing 24.85% of our total share capital.

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SHARE PRICE HISTORY

The  following  table  sets  forth  trading  information  for  our  ADSs,  as  reported  by  the  New  York  Stock
Exchange and our shares, as reported by the B3, for the periods indicated. Share prices in the table have
been adjusted to reflect stock splits.

B3 (Reais per share)

NYSE (US$ per share)

Common share

Preferred share

Common ADS

Preferred ADS

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2015

1Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2016

1Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2017

1Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Last six months

November 2017(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
December 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
January 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
February 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
March 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
April 2018 (until April 11, 2018)

44.10
35.71

22.84
27.06
19.94
20.79

17.58
21.76
19.12
31.03

36.43
30.65
36.10
40.24

36.25
40.24
43.50
47.40
44.45
44.84

28.39
18.69

17.94
17.54
15.35
11.65

8.60
14.02
16.02
17.65

25.06
25.35
28.50
31.10

32.16
35.30
40.87
40.35
40.86
42.55

42.60
32.73

20.10
20.30
16.00
16.26

12.78
16.68
16.17
27.84

34.24
28.97
33.25
33.36

33.36
–
–
–
–
–

26.00
16.00

15.45
14.95
12.27
9.32

6.57
11.24
12.78
15.55

22.85
24.06
26.71
28.61

29.93
–
–
–
–
–

(1)

Preferred class A shares were removed from trading on November 24, 2017.

21.49
15.25

12.63
6.86

20.88
14.01

11.47
5.89

8.69
8.80
5.90
5.48

4.65
6.07
6.07
9.16

11.52
9.86
11.64
10.50

11.33
12.23
13.53
14.65
13.58
13.14

5.65
5.58
4.03
3.07

2.15
3.91
4.82
5.45

7.99
7.77
8.74
9.77

9.77
10.74
12.70
12.36
12.23
12.50

7.63
6.66
5.00
4.31

3.42
4.66
5.05
8.20

10.87
9.33
10.79
9.73

10.24
–
–
–
–
–

4.85
4.77
3.21
2.43

1.60
3.02
3.79
4.78

7.36
7.26
8.17
9.07

9.11
–
–
–
–
–

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DEPOSITARY SHARES

Citibank N.A. serves as the depositary for our ADSs. ADR holders are required to pay various fees to the
depositary,  and  the  depositary  may  refuse  to  provide  any  service  for  which  a  fee  is  assessed  until  the
applicable fee has been paid.

ADR holders are required to pay the depositary amounts in respect of expenses incurred by the depositary
or its agents on behalf of ADR holders, including expenses arising from compliance with applicable law,
taxes or other governmental charges, facsimile transmission or conversion of foreign currency into U.S. In
this case, the depositary may decide in its sole discretion to seek payment by either billing holders or by
deducting  the  fee  from  one  or  more  cash  dividends  or  other  cash  distributions.  The  depositary  may
recover any unpaid taxes or other governmental charges owed by an ADR holder by billing such holder, by
deducting the fee from one or more cash dividends or other cash distributions, or by selling underlying
shares after reasonable attempts to notify the holder, with the holder liable for any remaining deficiency.

ADR holders are also required to pay additional fees for certain services provided by the depositary, as set
forth in the table below.

Depositary service

Fee payable by ADR holders

Issuance of ADSs upon deposit of shares, excluding issuances as a result of

distributions described in the following item . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Up to US$5.00 or less per 100 ADSs (or
fraction thereof) issued

Distribution of securities other than ADSs or rights to purchase additional ADSs

(i.e., spin-off shares) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Up to US$5.00 or less per 100 ADSs (or
fraction thereof) held

Distribution of cash dividends or other cash distributions (i.e., sale of rights and

other entitlements). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Up to US$5.00 or less per 100 ADSs (or
fraction thereof) held

Distribution of ADSs pursuant to (i) stock dividends or other free stock distributions,
or (ii) exercise of rights to purchase additional ADSs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Up to US$5.00 or less per 100 ADSs (or
portion thereof) held

Delivery of deposited property against surrender of ADSs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ADS services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Up to US$5.00 or less per 100 ADSs (or
portion thereof) surrendered

Up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or fraction
thereof) held on the applicable record
date(s) established by the depositary

The depositary may deduct applicable depositary fees and charges from the funds being distributed in the
case of cash distributions. For distributions other than cash, the depositary will invoice the amount of the
applicable depositary fees to the applicable holders.

ADDITIONAL CHARGES

The holders, beneficial owners, persons depositing shares and persons surrendering ADSs for cancellation
and for the purpose of withdrawing deposited securities are also subject to the following charges: (i) taxes
(including applicable interest and penalties) and other governmental charges; (ii) registration fees as may
be  applicable  from  time  to  time;  (iii)  reimbursement  of  certain  expenses  as  provided  in  the  deposit
agreement;  (iv)  the  expenses  and  charges  incurred  by  the  depositary  in  the  conversion  of  foreign
currency; (v) certain fees and expenses incurred by the depositary in connection with compliance with
exchange  control  regulations  and  other  regulatory  requirements;  and  (v)  certain  fees  and  expenses
incurred  in  connection  with  the  delivery  or  servicing  of  deposited  shares,  as  provided  for  under  the
deposit agreement.

The depositary reimburses us for certain expenses we incur in connection with the ADR programs and
other  expenses,  subject  to  a  ceiling  agreed  between  us  and  the  depositary  from  time  to  time.  These
reimbursable  expenses  currently  include  legal  and  accounting  fees,  listing  fees,  investor  relations

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expenses  and  fees  payable  to  service  providers  for  the  distribution  of  material  to  ADR  holders.  The
depositary  also  agreed  to  make  an  additional  reimbursement  annually  based  on  the  issuance  and
cancellation fees, dividend fees and depositary service fees charged by the depositary to our ADS holders.
In this context, for the year ended December 31, 2017, Citibank N.A. reimbursed us US$9.7 million.

Depositary Shares

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PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND
AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

Vale did not engage in any share repurchase program during 2017.

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V. MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

MANAGEMENT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Our  Board  of  Directors  sets  general  guidelines  and  policies  for  our  business  and  monitors  the
implementation of those guidelines and policies by our executive officers. Our bylaws provide for a Board
of Directors consisting of 12 members and 12 alternates, each of whom serves on behalf of a particular
director. Our bylaws provide that the chief executive officer cannot serve as chairman of the Board of
Directors.

The  Board  of  Directors  holds  regularly  scheduled  meetings  on  a  monthly  basis  and  holds  additional
meetings when called by the chairman, vice-chairman or any two directors. Decisions of the Board of
Directors  require  a  quorum  of  a  majority  of  the  directors  and  are  taken  by  majority  vote.  Alternate
directors may attend and vote at meetings in the absence of the director for whom the alternate director
is acting.

All  members  (and  their  respective  alternates)  are  elected  for  the  same  two-year  term  at  a  general
shareholders’ meeting, can be re-elected, and are subject to removal at any time. The terms of all of our
directors and alternate directors will expire at the Ordinary General Shareholder’s meeting of 2019.

Nine of our twelve current directors (and eight of our nine alternate directors) were appointed by the
parties to the Shareholders’ Agreement. One director and his respective alternate are appointed by our
employees, pursuant to our bylaws. Non-controlling shareholders holding common shares representing at
least 15% of our voting capital have the right to appoint one member and an alternate to our Board of
Directors.

Pursuant  to  the  Novo  Mercado  listing  rules  and  our  bylaws,  at  least  20%  of  our  directors  must  be
independent.  To  be  considered  independent  under  our  bylaws  and  the  Novo  Mercado  listing  rules  in
effect in 2017, a director may not (i) have current professional ties to Vale other than as a member of the
Board of Directors or be a significant shareholder of Vale; (ii) have been an employee or executive of Vale
or of any party to the Shareholders’ Agreement for at least the past three years; (iii) sell goods or services
to  or  purchase  goods  or  services  from  Vale;  (iv)  be  affiliated  with  any  party  to  the  Shareholders’
Agreement; (v) be a relative, to the second degree, of any director or executive of Vale; (vi) have been a
member  of  Vale’s  audit  committee  in  the  past  three  years;  and  (vii)  be  an  affiliate  of  any  non-profit
organization  receiving  significant  financial  resources  from  Vale.  New  listing  rules  applicable  to
independence  requirements  were  approved  for  the  Novo  Mercado  in  September  2017  and  came  into
force in January 2018.

The following table lists the current members of the Board of Directors and each director’s alternate.

Director

Year first
elected

Alternate director

Year first
elected

Gueitiro Matsuo Genso (chairman) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fernando Jorge Buso Gomes (vice-chairman) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oscar Augusto de Camargo Filho . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dan Ant ˆonio Marinho Conrado. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Marcel Juviniano Barros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lucio Azevedo(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eduardo Refinetti Guardia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Toshiya Asahi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Denise Pauli Pavarina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sandra Guerra(2)(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Isabella Saboya(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ney Roberto Ottoni de Brito . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2015
2015
2003
2012
2012
2015
2016
2017
2017
2017
2017
2018

Gilberto Antonio Vieira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Moacir Nachbar Junior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eduardo de Oliveira Rodrigues Filho . . . . . . . . .
Arthur Prado Silva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gilmar Dalilo Cezar Wanderley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Raimundo Nonato Alves Amorim(1) . . . . . . . . . .
Robson Rocha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Yoshitomo Nishimitsu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Luiz Mauricio Leuzinger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vacant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vacant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vacant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2015
2015
2011
2015
2017
2017
2011
2015
2012
–
–
–

(1) Appointed by our employees.
(2) Ms. Guerra was elected in a separate election by non-controlling shareholders.
(3)

Independent directors under Novo Mercado listing rules applicable in 2017.

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Below is a summary of the business experience, activities and areas of expertise of our current directors.

Gueitiro Matsuo Genso, 46: Chairman of Vale’s Board of Directors since February 2016 (Member of Vale’s
Board of Directors since March 2015); Member of the Personnel Committee since November 2017.

Other current director or officer positions: Chief Executive Officer of PREVI—Caixa de Previd ˆencia dos
Funcion ´arios do Banco do Brasil S.A. since 2015.

Professional  experience: Member  of  Vale’s  Executive  Development  Committee  from  April  2017  to
October 2017 and of Vale’s Strategic Committee from 2015 to 2017; Chief Executive Officer of Valepar
from 2015 to August 2017; Executive Officer of Private Customers of Banco do Brasil S.A. from 2014 to
2015; Member of the Board of Directors of the Brazilian Interbank Payment Chamber from 2014 to 2015;
Member of the Fiscal Council of Grupo Segurador BB Mapfre from 2011 to 2015; Sector Officer of the
Brazilian Bank Federation (Febraban) from 2010 to 2015; Executive Officer of Real Estate Credit of Banco
do Brasil S.A. from 2011 to 2014; Executive Officer of Home Loans of Banco do Brasil S.A. from 2011 to
2014;  Executive  Officer  of  Loans  of  Banco  do  Brasil  S.A.  from  2010  to  2011;  and  Executive  Officer  of
Products of Banco Nossa Caixa S.A. from 2009 to 2010.

Academic  background: Degree  in  business  administration  from  Faculdade  SPEI;  MBA  from  Funda¸c ˜ao
Get ´ulio Vargas; and MBA in agribusiness from Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz.

Fernando Jorge Buso Gomes, 61: Vice Chairman of Vale’s Board of Directors since January 2017 (Member
of  Vale’s  Board  of  Directors  since  April  2015);  Member  of  the  Finance  Committee  since  April  2015,
Coordinator of the Sustainability Committee and Member of the Personnel Committee since November
2017.

Other  current  director  or  officer  positions: Chief  Executive  Officer  and  Investor  Relations  Executive
Officer  of  Bradespar  since  2016  and  2015,  respectively;  Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  2b
Capital S.A. since 2014; and Executive Officer of Millennium Security Holdings Corp. since 2015.

Professional  experience: Coordinator  of  Vale’s  Governance  Sustainability  Committee  and  Member  of
the Executive Development Committee from April 2015 to October 2017; Executive Officer of Valepar
from 2015 to 2017; Member of the Board of Directors of Valepar from 2015 to 2017 (and Vice-Chairman of
Board of Directors from January to August 2017); Member of the Board of Directors of Sete Brasil S.A.
from 2011 to 2015; Chairman of the Board of Directors of Smartia Corretora de Seguros S.A. from 2012 to
2015; Chairman of the Board of Directors of SMR Grupo de Investimentos e Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. from 2014 to
2015;  Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  BCPAR  S.A.  from  2013  to  2015;  Member  of  the  Board  of
Directors  of  BR  Towers  S.A.  from  2013  to  2014;  Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  CPFL  Energias
Renov ´aveis  S.A.  from  2011  to  2012;  and  Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  LOG  Commercial
Properties S.A. from 2013 to 2015; Executive Officer of Banco Bradesco BBI S.A. from 2006 to 2015.

Academic background: Degree in economic sciences from Faculdades Integradas Bennett.

Oscar  Augusto  de  Camargo  Filho,  80:  Member  of  Vale’s  Board  of  Directors  since  October  2003  and
Coordinator of the Personnel Committee since November 2017.

Other  current  director  or  officer  positions: Managing  Partner  of  CWH  Consultoria  Empresarial,
since 2003.

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Professional experience: Member of the Board of Directors of Valepar from 2003 to 2014; Member of
Vale’s  Strategy  Committee  from  March  2006  to  October  2017;  and  Coordinator  of  Vale’s  Executive
Development Committee from November 2003 to October 2017.

Academic  background: Degree  in  law  from  Universidade  de  S ˜ao  Paulo;  and  Post-graduate  degree  in
international marketing from Cambridge University.

Dan Antonio Marinho Conrado, 53: Member of Vale’s Board of Directors since October 2012; Member of
the Sustainability Committee since November 2017.

Professional experience: Member of Vale’s Governance and Sustainability Committee from April 2017 to
October 2017 and of Vale’s Strategic Committee from October 2012 to April 2015; Chairman of Vale’s
Board of Directors from October 2012 to February 2016; Chairman of Valepar’s Board of Directors from
2012  to  2017;  Chief  Executive  Officer  of  Valepar  from  2012  to  2015;  Chief  Executive  Officer  of
PREVI—Caixa  de  Previd ˆencia  dos  Funcion ´arios  do  Banco  do  Brasil  S.A.  from  2012  to  2014,  Alternate
Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  Mapfre  BB  SH2  Participa¸c ˜oes  S.A.  from  2011  to  2017;  Alternate
Member of the Board of Directors of Petr ´oleo Brasileiro S.A.—Petrobr ´as and, Member of the Board of
Directors of its wholly owned subsidiary, BR Distribuidora, from July 2015 to November 2015; Member of
the Board of Directors of Fras-le S.A. from 2010 to 2013; Member of the Board of Directors of Alian¸ca do
Brasil S.A. from 2010 to 2011; and Vice-President of Retail, Distribution and Operations of Banco do Brasil
S.A from 2011 to 2012.

Academic background: Degree in law from Universidade Dom Bosco; MBA from Universidade Federal
do  Rio  de  Janeiro,  COPPEAD;  and  MBA  from  Instituto  de  Ensino  e  Pesquisa  em  Administra¸c ˜ao  of
Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Inepad.

Marcel Juviniano Barros, 55: Member of Vale’s Board of Directors since October 2012; Member of the
Personnel Committee since November 2017.

Other  current  director  or  officer  positions: Officer  of  Securities  of  PREVI—Caixa  de  Previd ˆencia  dos
Funcion ´arios  do  Banco  do  Brasil  S.A.  since  2012;  and  Member  of  the  Board  of  PRI—Principles  for
Responsible Investment of the UN since 2015.

Professional experience: Member of the Executive Development Committee of Vale from February 2013
to October 2017; Member of the Board of Directors of Valepar from 2012 to August 2017; held several
positions at Banco do Brasil S.A., including Union Auditor, between 1987 and 2012; and General Secretary
of the National Confederation of Financial Branch Workers from 2008 to 2011.

Academic  background: Degree  in  history  from  Funda¸c ˜ao  Municipal  de  Ensino  Superior  de  Bragan¸ca
Paulista.

Lucio Azevedo, 59: Member of Vale’s Board of Directors since April 2015.

Professional experience: Chairman of Railway Labor Unions in the Brazilian states of Maranh ˜ao, Par ´a
and Tocantins since 2013.

Academic background:

Incomplete secondary education.

Eduardo  Refinetti  Guardia,  52:  Member  of  Vale’s  Board  of  Directors  since  July  2016;  Member  of  the
Finance Committee since April 2017 and Coordinator of the Finance Committee since August 2017.

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Other current director or officer positions: Executive Secretary of the Department of the Treasury since
2016; and Manager of the Capital and Risk Committee of Banco do Brasil S.A. since September 2017.

Professional experience: Executive Officer of Products of BM&FBOVESPA (now B3) from 2013 to 2016;
Executive Officer of Finance and Investor Relations of BM&FBOVESPA (now B3) from 2010 to 2013; and
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Banco do Brasil S.A. from June 2016 to April 2017.

Academic background: Degree in economics from Pontif´ıcia Universidade Cat ´olica; Master’s Degree in
economics from Universidade Estadual de Campinas; and PhD in economics from Universidade de S ˜ao
Paulo.

Ney Roberto Ottoni de Brito, 72: Member of Vale’s Board of Directors since January 2018; Coordinator of
the Compliance and Risk Committee and Member of the Finance Committee since January 2018.

Other  current  director  or  officer  positions: Chief  Executive  Officer  of  Ney  O.  Brito  e  Associados
since 1978.

Academic  background: Graduate  degree  in  mechanical  engineering  from  Escola  Polit ´ecnica  of  the
Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro; Master’s degree in production engineering from COPPE of the
Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro; PhD in finance from Stanford University.

Toshiya Asahi, 51: Member of Vale’s Board of Directors since October 2017.

Other current director or officer positions: Vice President of Mitsui & Co. (Brasil) S.A. since 2015; and
Member of the Board of Directors of Gaspetro since October 2016.

Professional experience: Deputy General Manager of New Metals and Aluminum of Mitsui & Co. Ltd.
from 2014 to 2015; Deputy Executive Officer of Mitsui & Co. Ltd. from 2012 to 2014.

Academic background: Graduate degree in metallurgical engineering from the University of Kyushu.

Denise  Pauli  Pavarina,  54:  Member  of  Vale’s  Board  of  Directors  since  February  2017;  Member  of  the
Sustainability Committee since November 2017.

Other  current  director  or  officer  positions: Member  of  the  Sustainability  Committee  of  Banco
Bradesco S.A. since March 2017; Member of the Conduct and Ethics Committee of Banco Bradesco S.A.
since 2016; Member of the IT Committee of BM&FBOVESPA S.A.—Bolsa de Valores, Mercadorias e Futuro
(now  B3)  since  2016;  Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  B3  since  2015;  Member  of  the  Advisory
Committee  for  Intermediation  Sector  of  B3  since  2015;  Managing  Director  of  BRAM—Bradesco  Asset
Management  S.A.  since  2012;  Member  of  the  Management  Board  of  Funda¸c ˜ao  Bradesco  since  2009;
Member of the Board of Directors of Funda¸c ˜ao Instituto de Mol ´estias do Aparelho Digestivo e da Nutri¸c ˜ao
since  2012;  Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  (representing  ANBIMA)  of  Instituto  BRAIN—Brasil
Investimentos  &  Neg ´ocios  since  2012;  Managing  Director  of  Kirton  Bank  S.A.  and  Kirton  Gest ˜ao  de
Recursos  Ltda.  since  2016;  Member  of  the  Investment  Committee  of  NEO  Capital  Mezanino  Fundo  de
Investimentos em Participa¸c ˜oes since 2010; and Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of 2bCapital S.A.
since 2014.

Professional experience: Member of the Board of Directors of Valepar from March 2017 to August 2017;
Member of Vale’s Governance and Sustainability Committee from April 2017 to October 2017; Adjunct
Executive  Officer  of  Banco  Bradesco  S.A.  from  2012  to  2015;  Managing  Executive  Officer  of  Banco
Bradesco S.A. from 2015 to 2017; Member of the Management Board of Funda¸c ˜ao Bradesco from 2001 to

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2007; President of Associa¸c ˜ao Brasileira das Entidades dos Mercados Financeiros e de Capitais—ANBIMA
from 2012 to 2016; Superintendent Director of BRAM—Bradesco Asset Management S.A. from 2009 to
2012;  Member  of  the  Representatives  Council  (representing  ANBIMA)  of  Confedera¸c ˜ao  Nacional  das
Institui¸c ˜oes  Financeiras—CNF  from  2012  to  2016;  Member  of  the  Consulting  Board  of  Instituto
BRAIN—Brasil  Investimentos  &  Neg ´ocios  from  2012  to  2014;  Member  of  the  Strategic  Committee
(representing  ANBIMA)  of  Instituto  BRAIN—Brasil  Investimentos  &  Neg ´ocios  from  2012  to  2013;  and
Member of the Board of Directors of 2bCapital S.A. from 2010 to 2014.

Academic background: Degree in economic sciences from Faculdade Armando  ´Alvares Penteado; Law
degree from Universidade Paulista; MBA from Institute de Ensino e Pesquisa; and Advanced Management
Program from IESE Business School.

Sandra  Maria  Guerra  de  Azevedo,  62:  Member  of  Vale’s  Board  of  Directors  since  October  2017  and
Member of the Compliance and Risk Committee since November 2017.

Other current director or officer positions: Founding Partner of Better Governance Consulting Services
since 2005; Member of the Board of Directors of Vix Log´ıstica S.A. since 2015; Member of the Board of
Directors of Global Reporting Initiative since January 2017.

Professional experience: Member of the Board of Directors of Companhia Paranaense de Energia from
October 2016 to April 2017; Consulting counselor of Solvi Participa¸c ˜oes from 2011 to 2013; Consulting
counselor of Solvi Valoriza¸c ˜ao Energ ´etica from January 2013 to June 2013; Consulting counselor of Solvi
Saneamento from June 2012 to December 2012; Consulting counselor of Grupo Itapemirim from 2009 to
2013; and Co-founder of the Brazilian Institute of Corporate Governance (IBGC), serving as Chairman of its
Board of Directors from 2012 to 2016.

Academic  background: Graduate  degree  in  social  communications-journalism  from  Universidade
Paulista; MBA from Universidade de S ˜ao Paulo.

Isabella Saboya, 47: Member of Vale’s Board of Directors since October 2017

Other  current  director  or  officer  positions: Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  Wiz  Solu¸c ˜oes  e
Corretagem de Seguros S.A. since April 2016; Vice-chairman of the Board of Directors of the Brazilian
Institute  of  Corporate  Governance  (IBGC)  since  April  2017;  Member  of  the  State  Governance  Market
Advisory  Chamber  of  B3  since  August  2017;  Member  of  the  Council  of  Autoregulation  in  Investment
Governance Abrapp/Sindapp/ICSS since December 2016.

Professional experience: Member of the Fiscal Council of Bradespar S.A. from April 2016 to July 2016;
Member of the Fiscal Council of Mills S.A. from April 2016 to April 2017; Member of the Board of Directors
of BR Malls S.A. from May 2016 to March 2017; Partner at Jardim Bot ˆanico Investimentos S.A. from 2009 to
2015.

Academic background: Graduate degree in economics from Pontif´ıcia Universidade Cat ´olica do Rio de
Janeiro.

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Our bylaws provide for the following advisory committees to the Board of Directors, each governed by its
own internal rules:

Management

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

The  Personnel  Committee,  which  is  responsible  for  (i)  evaluating  Vale’s  general  human
resources  policies  as  submitted  by  the  executive  officers  to  the  Board  of  Directors;
(ii)  evaluating  the  adequacy  of  the  compensation  model  for  members  of  the  Board  of
Executive  Officers  and  the  proposed  annual,  global  budget  for  the  compensation  of
executives; (iii) aiding the Board of Directors in the setting and monitoring of goals for the
performance evaluation of the Board of Executive Officers and other executives who report
directly to the Chief Executive Officer; (iv) aiding the Board of Directors in the setting and
monitoring of goals for the performance evaluation of those in charge of Vale’s Governance
Office,  Internal  Auditing  and  Ombudsman;  (v)  supporting  the  Board  of  Directors  in  the
process of selecting and appointing the Chief Executive Officer, as well as evaluating the
appointment, by the latter, of the other members of the Executive Board and other leaders
who report directly to the Chief Executive Officer; (vi) monitoring the development of the
succession plan for the Executive Board and other leaders who report directly to the Chief
Executive Officer, as well as their successors, and proposing improvements; (vii) evaluating
and  recommending  adjustments  to  corporate  governance  best  practices  concerning  the
structure, size and composition of the Board of Directors and the Advisory Committees, as
well as the balance of experiences, knowledge and diversity of the profiles of their members;
(viii) identifying and recommending potential candidates to be directors and also potential
candidates to be members of the Advisory Committees; (ix) supporting the Chairman of the
Board of Directors in organizing the process for performance evaluation of Vale’s Board of
Directors and Advisory Committees; (x) preparing and approving the Personnel Committee’s
annual work plan; and (xi) proposing analysis and evaluation, as well as opining about other
topics under its responsibility.

The Finance Committee, which is responsible for (i) evaluating the structure and conditions
of investment and divestment transactions, including mergers, consolidations and spin-offs
in which Vale is involved; (ii) evaluating the compatibility between the compensation level of
shareholders and the parameters established in the annual budget and financial scheduling,
as well as their consistency with the general policy on dividends and Vale’s capital structure;
(iii)  evaluating  Vale’s  policies  on  minimum  cash  and  financial  investments;  (iv)  evaluating
Vale’s annual budget and annual investment plan; (v) evaluating Vale’s annual funding plan
and  indebtedness  limits;  (vi)  evaluating  current  and  capital  investments,  which  are  the
responsibility of the Board of Directors; (vii) monitoring the financial execution of capital
expenditure  projects,  ongoing  budget  and  cash  flow;  (viii)  monitoring  financial  risks  and
controls  in  light  of  the  integrated  risk  map,  as  well  as  proposing  improvements  to  risk
mitigation plans; (ix) evaluating Vale’s policy for communications with the capital markets;
(x) preparing and approving the Finance Committee’s annual work plan; and (xi) proposing
financial  analyses  and  evaluations,  as  well  as  opining  about  other  topics  under  its
responsibility.

The Compliance and Risk Committee, which is responsible for (i) monitoring that Vale has the
structure, processes, practices, mechanisms and systems, among others, in place to ensure
compliance  with  all  applicable  legal  and  regulatory  requirements;  (ii)  ensuring  Vale’s
adoption and improvement of compliance best practices and integrity, including evaluating
potential  conflicts  of  interest;  (iii)  ensuring  the  effectiveness  and  compliance  of  Vale’s
policies and normative documents with the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to
its business and activities; (iv) monitoring the suitability, strength and performance of all of

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Vale’s  internal  control  systems  and  proposing  improvements;  (v)  monitoring  the  scope  of
activities  and  effectiveness  of  the  departments  in  charge  of  Vale’s  corporate  governance,
compliance,  corporate 
integrity,  risk  management  and  controls  and  proposing
improvements;  (vi)  supporting  the  Board  of  Directors  in  setting  risk  exposure  limits;
(vii) evaluating procedures adopted concerning the effectiveness of processes and controls
to identify, assess, monitor and manage risk; (viii) monitoring Vale’s integrated risk map, as
well as proposing improvements in risk mitigation plans; (ix) ensuring the effectiveness of
mechanisms  to  handle  conflicts  of  interests  in  Vale’s  transactions,  as  well  as  opining  on
related-party  transactions  submitted  to  the  Board  of  Directors  pursuant  to  the  Policy  on
Transactions  with  Related  Parties;  (x)  evaluating  proposals  for  modifying  the  corporate
governance documents, such as the By-Laws, the Code of Ethics and Conduct and Internal
Rules of Vale’s Advisory Committees and Board of Directors, in addition to other Policies and
documents which are not the responsibility of other Committees; (xi) promoting, monitoring
and ensuring the development and efficacy of the Vale’s governance model, assuring that all
initiatives  are  in  line  with  the  best  practices  and  are  in  synergy;  (xii)  evaluating  and
monitoring  updates  related  to  current  norms,  regulations  and  recommendations,  in
addition to practices and market trends that may impact Vale’s activities; (xiii) preparing and
approving  an  annual  work  plan  of  the  Committee;  and  (xiv)  proposing  analysis  and
evaluation, as well as opining about other topics under its responsibility.

(cid:127)

The  Sustainability  Committee,  which  is  responsible  for  (i)  evaluating  Vale’s  sustainability
strategy,  and  ensuring  that  it  is  considered  when  setting  overall  strategy;  (ii)  evaluating
Vale’s  policies  and  conduct  related  to  Safety,  the  Environment,  Health,  Social  Actions,
Communication  and  Institutional  Relations;  (iii)  evaluating  Vale’s  performance  regarding
sustainability aspects and proposing improvements based on a long-term vision; (iv) aiding in
setting, evaluating and monitoring the company’s sustainability indicators and proposing
improvements; (v) evaluating and proposing Vale’s adherence to national or international
initiatives  or  agreements  related  to  socio-environmental  responsibility  matters,  and
monitoring the preparation and disclosure of the sustainability report; (vi) monitoring the
scope of operations and effectiveness in the department of institutional relations in dealing
with regulatory entities and other institutional relationships associated with sustainability
topics;  (vii)  evaluating  policies  and  proposals  for  donations,  as  well  as  non-obligatory
expenses related to item (ii) above, which are the responsibility of the Board of Directors;
(viii) monitoring all operational risks and controls from the perspective of the integrated risk
map, including risks to safety, the environment, health and social actions and reputational
risks,  as  well  as  proposing  improvements  in  risk  mitigation  plans;  (ix)  preparing  and
approving the Sustainability Committee’s annual work plan; and (x) proposing analysis and
evaluation of topics under its responsibility.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

The executive officers are responsible for day-to-day operations and the implementation of the general
policies and guidelines set forth by our Board of Directors. Our bylaws provide for a minimum of six and a
maximum  of  11  executive  officers.  The  executive  officers  hold  weekly  meetings  and  hold  additional
meetings when called by any executive officer. Under Brazilian corporate law, executive officers must be
Brazilian residents.

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The Board of Directors appoints executive officers for two-year terms and may remove them at any time.
The following table lists our current executive officers.

Officer

Year of
appointment

Position

Fabio Schvartsman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Luciano Siani Pires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gerd Peter Poppinga(1) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eduardo de Salles Bartolomeo . . . . .
Luiz Eduardo Fr ´oes do Amaral

Osorio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alexandre Gomes Pereira . . . . . . . . . .

2017
2012
2014
2017

2017
2017

Chief Executive Officer
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Officer for Investor Relations
Executive Officer (Ferrous Minerals and Coal)
Executive Officer (Base Metals)

Executive Officer (Sustainability and Institutional Relations)
Executive Officer (Business Support)

Age

64
48
58
53

43
48

(1) Gerd Peter Poppinga was Executive Officer for Base Metals Operations and Information Technology of Vale from November 2011

to November 2014 and Executive Officer for Ferrous Minerals of Vale from November 2014 to May 2017.

Below is a summary of the business experience, activities and areas of expertise of our current executive
officers.

Fabio Schvartsman, 64: Chief Executive Officer of Vale since May 2017 and Member of the Information
Disclosure Committee since May 2017.

Professional experience: Coordinator of Vale’s Strategic Committee from May 2017 to October 2017;
Chief  Executive  Officer  of  Klabin  S.A.  from  2011  to  2017;  Chief  Executive  Officer  of  SanAntonio
Internacional from April 2008 to April 2010; Chief Executive Officer of Telemar Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. from
April 2007 to February 2008; several executive positions at Grupo Ultra from May 1985 to April 2007,
including Planning and Control Officer and Investor Relations Officer, Chief Financial Officer of Ultrapar
Holding  and  managing  partner  of  Ultra  S.A.;  and  General  Manager  of  the  Economic  Studies,
Development and Planning areas of Duratex S.A. from February 1976 to April 1985.

Academic  background: Graduate  and  post-graduate  degrees  in  production  engineering  from  the
University of S ˜ao Paulo and a post-graduate degree in Business Administration from Funda¸c ˜ao Get ´ulio
Vargas.

Luciano Siani Pires, 48: Chief Financial Officer and Executive Officer for Investor Relations of Vale since
August  2012  and  Member  of  the  Disclosure  Committee  and  of  the  Executive  Risk  Management
Committee since August 2012.

Professional  experience: Alternate  Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  Vale,  from  2005  to  2007;
Member of Vale’s Financial Committee from 2012 to 2015; Global Officer of Strategic Planning, from 2008
to 2009 and in 2011, and Global Officer of Human Resources and Governance from 2009 to 2011 of Vale;
Member of the Board of Directors of Valepar, from 2007 to 2008; Member of the Board of Directors of
Telemar  Participa¸c ˜oes  S.A.,  from  2005  to  2008;  Member  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  Suzano  Papel  e
Celulose S.A., from 2005 to 2008; Several executive positions at BNDES, including executive secretary and
chief of staff of the presidency, Head of capital markets and export finance, from 1992 to 1999 and from
2001 to 2008, respectively; and Consultant at McKinsey & Company from 2003 to 2005.

Academic background: Degree in mechanical engineering from Pontif´ıcia Universidade Cat ´olica do Rio
de Janeiro; and MBA in finance from the Stern School of Business, New York University.

Gerd Peter Poppinga, 58: Executive Officer for Ferrous Minerals and Coal of Vale since July 2017.

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Other current director or officer positions: Member of the Board of Directors of Vale International since
June 2015.

Professional  experience: Executive  Officer  for  Ferrous  Mineral  of  Vale  from  November  2014  to  June
2017; Executive Officer for Base Metals Operations and Information Technology of Vale from November
2011 to November 2014; Executive vice president for Asia Pacific of Vale Canada from November 2009 to
November 2011; Director for strategy, business development, human resources and sustainability of Vale
Canada from May 2008 to October 2009; Director for strategy and information technology of Vale Canada
from November 2007 to April 2008; Several memberships on boards of directors and executive boards
from  2005  to  2010  in  connection  with  his  roles  at  Vale;  and  Several  positions  at  Minera¸c ˜ao  da
Trinidade S.A.—SAMITRI, a publicly held mining company acquired by Vale in 2001, from 1985 to 1999.

in  geology  from  Universit ¨at  Clausthal—Zellerfeld,  Germany;
Academic  Background: Degree 
Participated in coursework in geostatistics at Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (UFOP), executive MBA
at  Funda¸c ˜ao  Dom  Cabral,  negotiation  dynamics  at  INSEAD;  senior  leadership  at  the  Massachusetts
Institute  of  Technology  and  IMD  Business  School  in  Lausanne,  Switzerland,  and  strategic  megatrends
(Asia-focused) at Kellogg Singapore.

Eduardo de Salles Bartolomeo, 53: Executive Officer for Base Metals of Vale since January 2018.

Other  current  director  or  officer  positions: Chairman  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  Login  Log´ıstica
Intermodal since 2016.

Professional experience: Member of Vale’s Board of Directors from September 2016 to December 2017;
Coordinator of Vale’s Compliance and Risk Committee from November 2017 to December 2017; Member
of  Vale’s  Financial  Committee  from  April  to  December  2017;  Chief  Executive  Officer  of  Nova
Transportadora do Sudeste from April to December 2017; Member of Vale’s Strategic Committee from
September 2016 to October 2017; Executive Officer of Vale for Integrated Operations from 2010 to 2012;
Executive Officer of Vale for Logistics, Projects & Sustainability from 2007 to 2010; Member of the Board of
Directors of Arteris S.A. from 2015 to 2017; Chief Executive Officer of BHG – Brazilian Hospitality Group
from 2013 to 2015; Member of the Board of Directors of MRS Log´ıstica S.A. from 2007 to 2009; Head of
Vale’s logistical operations from 2004 to 2006; and Chief Executive Officer of Petroflex from 2006 to 2007.

Academic  background: Graduate  degree  in  metallurgical  engineering  from  Universidade  Federal
Fluminense; MBAs from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Luiz Eduardo Fr ´oes do Amaral Osorio, 43: Executive Officer for Sustainability and Institutional Relations of
Vale since July 2017.

Other current director or officer positions: President of the Board of Directors of Instituto Brasileiro de
Minera¸c ˜ao – IBRAM.

Professional experience: Executive Vice-President of Legal and Company Relations of CPFL Energia S.A.
from 2014 to 2017; Member of the Board of Directors of CPFL Energias Renov ´aveis S.A. from 2014 to 2017;
Vice-Chairman  of  the  Board  of  Directors  of  Instituto  CPFL  from  2015  to  2017;  Executive  Director  of
International  Markets  of  Ra´ızen  from  2012  to  2014;  Vice  President,  General  Counsel  and  Chief
Institutional Relations Officer of CPFL Energy Group from May 2014 to July 2017; Executive Director for
International  Markets,  based  in  London,  of  Ra´ızen  from  July  2012  to  March  2014;  Vice  President  for
Sustainable Develompment and External Affairs of Ra´ızen from March 2011 to June 2012.

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Academic background: Law degree from Pontif´ıcia Universidade Cat ´olica do Rio de Janeiro; Master’s
degree  in  development  management  from  American  University’s  School  of  International  Service;
Participated  in  coursework  in  corporate  social  responsibility  at  Harvard  Business  School,  general
management skills at INSEAD, strategy and leadership at the University of Pennsylvania and leadership in
corporate counsel from Harvard Law School.

Alexandre Gomes Pereira, 48: Executive Officer for Business Support since August 2017.

Professional  experience: Global  Information  Officer  of  Vale  from  2011  to  2017;  Head  of  Global  IT
Services of Vale from 2009 to 2011; Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Vale’s global nickel
business (Vale Canada) from 2007 to 2009; IT General Manager of Vale from 2002 to 2007.

Academic background: Degree in mathematics/computer science from State University of Rio de Janeiro
(UERJ);  Post-graduate  degrees  in  business  management  from  Funda¸c ˜ao  Dom  Cabral  and  in  computer
networks from the Federal University of Esp´ırito Santo (UFES); and MBA from S ˜ao Paulo University (USP).

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

Under  Brazilian  corporate  law,  if  a  director  or  an  executive  officer  has  a  conflict  of  interest  with  the
company in connection with any proposed transaction, such director or executive officer may not vote in
any decision of the board of directors or of the board of executive officers regarding such transaction and
must disclose the nature and extent of the conflicting  interest for  transcription in  the minutes of the
meeting.  Under  our  Policy  on  Related  Party  Transactions,  any  director  or  executive  officer  who  has  a
conflict of interest cannot receive any relevant documentation or information and may not participate in
any  related  discussions.  None  of  our  directors  or  executive  officers  can  transact  any  business  with  us,
except on reasonable or fair terms and conditions that are identical to the terms and conditions prevailing
in  the  market  or  offered  by  unrelated  parties.  For  more  details  about  our  Policy  on  Related  Party
Transactions see Share ownership and trading—Related party transactions.

FISCAL COUNCIL

We have a fiscal council established in accordance with Brazilian law. The primary responsibilities of the
fiscal council under Brazilian corporate law are to monitor management’s activities, review the company’s
financial statements, and report its findings to the shareholders. Our management is required to obtain
the Fiscal Council’s pre-approval before engaging independent auditors to provide any audit or permitted
non-audit services to Vale or its consolidated subsidiaries. Our Fiscal Council has pre-approved a detailed
list of services based on detailed proposals from our auditors up to specified monetary limits. The list of
pre-approved services is updated from time to time. Services that are included in this list, or that exceed
the specified limits, or that relate to internal controls must be separately approved by the Fiscal Council.
The  policy  also  sets  forth  a  list  of  prohibited  services.  The  Fiscal  Council  is  provided  with  reports  on
engagement and performance of the services included in the list on a periodic basis, and it also reviews
and monitors the company’s external auditor’s independence and objectivity. The Fiscal Council has the
power to review and evaluate the performance of the company’s external auditors on an annual basis and
make a recommendation to the Board of Directors on whether the company should remove and replace
its  existing  external  auditors.  The  Fiscal  Council  may  also  recommend  withholding  the  payment  of
compensation  to  the  independent  auditors  and  has  the  power  to  mediate  disagreements  between
management and the auditors regarding financial reporting.

Under  our  bylaws  and  internal  regulations,  our  Fiscal  Council  is  also  responsible  for  evaluating  the
effectiveness  of  the  procedures  for  the  receipt,  retention  and  treatment  of  any  complaints  related  to

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accounting, controls and audit issues, as well as procedures for the confidential, anonymous submission of
concerns regarding such matters.

Brazilian law requires the members of a fiscal council to meet certain eligibility requirements. A member
of our Fiscal Council cannot (i) hold office as a member of the board of directors, fiscal council or advisory
committee of any company that is a competitor of Vale or otherwise has a conflicting interest with Vale,
unless compliance with this requirement is expressly waived by shareholder vote, (ii) be an employee or
member of senior management or the Board of Directors of Vale or its subsidiaries or affiliates, or (iii) be a
spouse or relative within the third degree by affinity or consanguinity of an officer or director of Vale.

We are subject to Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act, which requires, absent an exemption, that a listed
company maintains a standing audit committee composed of members of the Board of Directors that
meet specified requirements. In lieu of establishing an independent audit committee, we have given our
Fiscal  Council  the  necessary  powers  to  qualify  for  the  exemption  set  forth  in  Exchange  Act
Rule  10A-3(c)(3).  We  believe  our  Fiscal  Council  satisfies  the  independence  and  other  requirements  of
Exchange Act Rule 10A-3 that would apply in the absence of our reliance on the exemption.

Our Board of Directors has determined that one of the members of our Fiscal Council, Mr. Marcus Vinicius
Dias Severini, is an audit committee financial expert. In addition, Mr. Marcus Vin´ıcius Dias Severini meets
the applicable independence requirements for Fiscal Council membership under Brazilian law and the
NYSE independence requirements that would apply to audit committee members in the absence of our
reliance on the exemption set forth in Exchange Act Rule 10A-3(c)(3).

Members of the Fiscal Council are elected by our shareholders for one-year terms. The current members of
the  Fiscal  Council  and  their  respective  alternates  were  elected  on  April  20,  2017.  The  terms  of  the
members of the Fiscal Council expire at the next annual shareholders’ meeting following election.

Two  members  of  our  Fiscal  Council  (and  the  respective  alternates)  may  be  elected  by  non-controlling
shareholders: one member may be appointed by the holders of our golden shares and one member may
be appointed by minority holders of common shares pursuant to applicable CVM rules.

The following table lists the current and alternate members of the Fiscal Council.

Current member

Year first elected

Alternate

Year first elected

Robert Juenemann(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Raphael Manh ˜aes Martins(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Marcelo Amaral Moraes(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Marcus Vin´ıcius Dias Severini(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eduardo Cesar Pasa(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2017
2015
2004
2017
2017

Gaspar Carreira Junior(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bernardo Zito Porto(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vacant(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vacant(5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sergio Mamede Rosa do Nascimento(3) . . . .

2017
2017
–
–
2016

(1) Appointed the shareholders of golden shares.
(2) Appointed by minority shareholders of common shares.
(3) Appointed by Valepar.
(4)
(5)

Vacant since the General Ordinary Shareholders’ meeting of 2014.
Vacant since the General Ordinary Shareholders’ meeting of 2017.

Below is a summary of the business experience, activities and areas of expertise of the members of our
Fiscal Council.

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Robert Juenemann, 52: Member of Vale’s Fiscal Council since April 2017.

Other  current  director  or  officer  positions: Founding  partner  of  Robert  Juenemann  Advocacia
Empresarial e Familiar since 1999; Member of the Board of Directors and Audit Committee of the Brazilian
Institute  of  Corporate  Governance  (IBGC)  since  2014;  Managing  Partner  of  Arrow  Governan¸ca  e
Marketing Ltda since 2011.

Professional experience: Member of the IBGC’s review group on Codes for Better Corporate Governance
Practices from 2014 to 2015; Member of the Fiscal Council of Centrais El ´etricas de Santa Catarina S.A.
during 2013; Member of the Fiscal Council of Eternit during 2015; Member of the Fiscal Council of Centrais
El ´etricas Brasileiras S.A. (Eletrobras) from 2013 to 2016; Member of the International Ethics Standards
Board for Accountants of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC).

Academic  background: Law  degree  and  post-graduate  degree  in  civil  process  from  the  Pontificia
Universidade  Cat ´olica  do  Rio  Grande  do  Sul;  Post-graduate  degree  in  strategic  planning  from  Escola
Superior de Propaganda e Marketing; and Certification as a conflict mediator by the Center for Effective
Dispute Resolution in London since 2011.

Raphael Manh ˜aes Martins, 35: Member of Vale’s Fiscal Council since April 2015.

Other current director or officer positions: Member of the Board of Directors of Eternit S.A. since 2015;
Member of the Fiscal Council of Light S.A. since 2014; Attorney for Faoro Advogados since 2010; Member
of the Board of Directors of Condor S.A. Ind ´ustria Qu´ımica since May 2017; and Member of the Board of
Directors of Welser Itage Participa¸c ˜oes e Com ´ercio S.A. since May 2017.

Professional experience: Attorney for Cr2 Empreendimentos from 2007 to 2009.

Academic background: Degree in law from Universidade Estadual do Rio de Janeiro.

Marcelo Amaral Moraes, 50: Member of Vale’s Fiscal Council since April 2004.

Other current director or officer positions: President of the Fiscal Council of Aceco TI S.A. since 2016;
Member of the Board of Directors of Eternit S.A. since 2016; and Member of the Board of Directors of CPFL
Energia S.A. since April 2017.

Professional experience: Managing Director of Capital Dynamics Investimentos Ltda. from 2012 to 2015.

Academic background: Degree in economics from Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro; MBA from
COPPEAD at the Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro; and Post-graduate Degree in corporate law and
arbitration from Funda¸c ˜ao Get ´ulio Vargas.

Marcus Vin´ıcius Dias Severini, 60: Member of Vale’s Fiscal Council since April 2017.

Other  current  director  or  officer  positions: Member  of  the  Fiscal  Council  of  BRF  S.A.  since  2015  and
Member of the Fiscal Council of Mills Estruturas e Servi¸cos de Engenharia S.A. since 2015.

Professional experience: Controller from 1994 to 2015.

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Academic background: Degree in accounting sciences from UniverCidade; Graduate degree in electrical
engineering from Universidade Federal Fluminense; and a specialized degree in economic engineering
from UniSUAW.

Eduardo Cesar Pasa, 47: Member of Vale’s Fiscal Council since April 2017.

Other current director or officer positions: Accounting Management Officer of Banco do Brasil S.A. since
April 2015; Member of the Deliberations Council of PREVI since 2010; Member of the Fiscal Council of
Petrobras S.A. since April 2017 .

Professional  experience: Coordinator  of  Vale’s  Controlling  Committee  of  Vale  from  2014  to  2017;
Member of the Fiscal Council of Centrais El ´etricas Brasileiras S.A. (Eletrobras) from 2015 to 2017; Member
of  the  Fiscal  Council  of  Cateno  Gest ˜ao  de  Contas  de  Pagamento  S.A.  from  2016  to  2017;  General
Accounting Manager of Banco do Brasil S.A. from 2009 to 2015; Member of the Fiscal Council of CASSI
from 2010 to 2014; Alternate Member of the Fiscal Council of Banco Votorantim S.A. from 2009 to 2015;
and Member of the Fiscal Council of BBTS-BB Tecnologia e Servi¸cos from 2008 to 2015.

Academic  background: Graduate  degree  in  accounting  sciences  from  Centro  Universit ´ario  de
Bras´ılia  –  UniCeub;  Post-graduate  degree  in  accounting  sciences  from  the  Post-Graduate  School  of
Economics  at  Funda¸c ˜ao  Get ´ulio  Vargas;  Master’s  Degree  in  accounting  sciences  from  the  School  of
Economics, Administration and Accounting of the Universidade de S ˜ao Paulo.

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Under our bylaws, our shareholders are responsible for establishing the aggregate compensation we pay
to the members of our Board of Directors and our Board of Executive Officers, and the Board of Directors
allocates  the  compensation  among  its  members  and  the  Board  of  Executive  Officers.  The  Personnel
Committee, composed of four members of the Board of  Directors and  one independent  non-director,
advises  the  Board  of  Directors  on  the  distribution  of  the  annual  aggregate  compensation  among  the
directors and executive officers and in setting and monitoring goals for the performance evaluation of
the  Executive  Board.  See  Management  and  employees—Management—Advisory  committees  to  the
Board of Directors.

As a global company, we require management with a deep knowledge of our business and market and
unlimited dedication. Attracting and retaining talent, and engaging and motivating the professionals
holding strategic positions, especially our executive officers, is critical for our success.

The  compensation  submitted  by  our  Board  of  Directors  for  approval  of  our  shareholders,  and  the
distribution of the aggregate compensation among the members of our Board of Directors and our Board
of Executive Officers, are based on benchmarking against the compensation policies and practices of the
top global mining companies and other large global companies in other industries, and various other
factors,  such  as  the  directors’  and  officers’  responsibilities,  time  devoted  to  their  duties,  professional
competence  and  reputation,  market  practices  in  the  places  where  we  operate,  and  the  alignment  of
short- and long-term strategies, shareholder returns and the sustainability of the business.

One  of  the  core  principles  for  designing  the  compensation  proposal  is  the  alignment  with  our
performance and return to our shareholders. For 2018, the aggregate compensation for our Board of
Executive Officers is expected, assuming that we achieve average performance among our peer group, to
be composed as follows: 27% fixed compensation, 27% short-term (performance target-based) variable
compensation  and  46%  long-term  (share-based  incentives)  variable  compensation.  The  short-term
variable compensation component is based on our cash generation, taking into account economic and
financial targets that reflect operating performance, as well as health and safety targets, sustainability
and  accomplishment  of  strategic  initiatives.  Of  the  long-term  variable  portion,  20%  of  aggregate
compensation is to be awarded under our Matching Program and 26% is to be awarded as Performance
Shares Units (PSUs) under our phantom stock plan, for which payment is a direct function of our Total
Shareholder  Return  (TSR)  indicator’s  performance  compared  to  a  preselected  group  of  comparable
companies.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

For the year ended December 31, 2017, the total expenditures related to executive officers’ compensation
packages, including compensation accrued for the year and payable at a later date, is set forth in the table
below.

Fixed compensation and in-kind benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Variable compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pension, retirement or similar benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total paid to 2017 executive officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Severance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total paid to 2017 and former executive officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Social security contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total expenditures related to executive officers’ compensation packages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For the year ended
December 31, 2017

(US$ million)

7.60
13.24
1.53

22.37
20.19

42.56
8.03

50.59

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Fixed  compensation  and  in-kind  benefits  include  a  base  salary  in  cash,  paid  on  a  monthly  basis,
reimbursement  for  certain  investments  in  private  pension  plans,  health  care,  relocation  expenses,  life
insurance, driver and car expenses. Variable compensation consists of (i) an annual cash bonus, based on
specific targets for each executive officer, approved by our Board of Directors, and (ii) payments tied to
the performance of our shares under two programs, the Matching Program and the Performance Shares
Units (PSU). Vale has also entered into indemnification agreements with its officers.

Under  our  Matching  Program,  our  executive  officers  are  permitted  to  purchase  a  certain  number  of
common shares or ADRs in the market within a purchase window through the plan administrator. At the
end of a three-year cycle, participants are entitled to receive a reward equivalent to the same number of
common shares or ADRs held through the end of the cycle. Participants may sell or transfers their common
shares or ADRs at any time during the vesting period, in which case they forfeit the right to receive any
reward  with  respect  to  these  common  shares  or  ADRs.  Participation  in  our  Matching  Program  is
mandatory for our Board of Executive Officers in the years in which we pay cash bonuses.

Under our PSU program, our executive officers receive payments in cash tied to Vale’s performance, as
compared to a selected group of peer companies, based on the total return (dividend payments and share
appreciation) of the common shares of those companies in a four-year cycle.

Pension, retirement or similar benefits consist of our contribution to Valia, the manager of pension plans
sponsored by Vale.

Our  severance  packages  for  qualified  terminations  may  comprise:  (i) a  lump-sum  severance  payment,
corresponding to one-half the annual fixed compensation for executive officers and equal to the annual
fixed  compensation  for  the  Chief  Executive  Officer,  paid  shortly  after  the  termination  date;  (ii) non-
compete agreement compensation corresponding to twice the annual fixed compensation, to be paid in
eight  equal  quarterly  installments  after  termination;  (iii) pro-rated  payment  of  any  outstanding
long-term variable compensation grants (PSU and Matching programs), paid shortly after the termination
date; and (iv) pro-rated payment of any outstanding short-term incentive plan (bonus), to be paid in April
following the termination date. Severance expenditures in 2017 were related to five former executive
officers who left the company in 2016 and 2017.

Social  security  contributions  are  mandatory  contributions  we  are  required  to  make  to  the  Brazilian
government for our executive officers.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

In 2017, we paid US$2.11 million in aggregate to the members of our Board of Directors for services in all
capacities, all of which was fixed compensation. There are no pension, retirement or similar benefits for
the members of our Board of Directors. On February 28, 2018, the total number of common shares owned
by our directors and executive officers was 635,523. None of our directors or executive officers beneficially
owns 1% or more of any class of our shares. Vale has also entered into indemnification agreements with
its directors.

FISCAL COUNCIL

We  paid  an  aggregate  of  US$0.61  million  to  members  of  the  Fiscal  Council  in  2017.  In  addition,  the
members of the Fiscal Council are reimbursed for travel expenses related to the performance of their
functions.

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ADVISORY COMMITTEES

We paid an aggregate of US$0.24 million to members of our advisory committees in 2017. Under our
bylaws, those members who are directors or officers of Vale are not entitled to additional compensation
for participating on a committee. Members of our advisory committees are reimbursed for travel expenses
related to the performance of their duties.

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The following tables set forth the number of our employees by business and by location as of the dates
indicated.

By business:
Ferrous minerals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fertilizer nutrients(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(1) Discontinued operations.

By location:
South America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oceania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

As of December 31,

2015

2016

2017(1)

42,838
1,608
15,554
9,181
4,917

74,098

42,579
2,039
15,239
8,935
4,270

73,062

42,734
2,258
15,243
8,055
5,306

73,596

As of December 31,

2015

2016

2017(1)

58,830
6,773
385
4,516
1,654
1,940

74,098

57,535
6,630
385
4,499
1,521
2,492

73,062

58,457
6,432
375
4,571
1,364
2,397

73,596

(1)

Since January 2017, we include all fixed-term contract employees and trainees in our total workforce figures, as well as employees
hired through our affirmative action program for Persons with Disabilities.

We  negotiate  wages  and  benefits  with  a  large  number  of  unions  worldwide  that  represent  our
employees.  We  have  collective  agreements  with  unionized  employees  at  our  operations  in  Australia,
Brazil, Canada, Indonesia, Malawi, Mozambique, New Caledonia, Oman, Peru and the United Kingdom.

WAGES AND BENEFITS

Wages  and  benefits  for  Vale  and  its  subsidiaries  are  generally  established  on  a  company-by-company
basis. We establish our wage and benefits programs for Vale S.A. and its subsidiaries, other than Vale
Canada. In November 2017, we reached a one-year agreement with the Brazilian unions providing for a
salary  increase  of  2.5%  beginning  in  November  2017.  The  provisions  of  our  collective  bargaining
agreements with unions also apply to our non-unionized employees. Vale Canada also establishes wages
and benefits for its unionized employees through collective bargaining agreements. In March 2017, Vale
Canada  reached  a  four-year  agreement  with  the  union  representing  technical  and  administrative
employees at the Sudbury operation. For non-unionized employees, Vale Canada undertakes an annual
review of salaries and benefits. We also provide our employees and their dependents with other benefits,
including supplementary medical assistance, and in 2017 Vale Canada introduced a new Flexible Benefits
plan for its non-union employees.

PENSION PLANS

Brazilian employees of Vale and of most of its Brazilian subsidiaries are eligible to participate in pension
plans managed by Valia.

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Most of the participants in plans held by Valia are participants in a plan named ‘‘Vale Mais’’, which Valia
implemented in 2000. This plan is primarily a defined contribution plan with a defined benefit feature
relating to service prior to 2000 and another defined benefit feature to cover temporary or permanent
disability, pension and financial protection to dependents in case of death. Valia also operates a defined
benefit plan, closed to new participants since May 2000, with benefits based on years of service, salary and
social security benefits. This plan covers retired participants and their beneficiaries, as well as a relatively
small number of employees that declined to transfer from the old plan to the ‘‘Vale Mais’’ plan when it
was established in May 2000.

Employees within our Base Metals operations, principally in Canada and the United Kingdom, participate
in defined benefit pension plans and defined contribution pension plans. All new employees within our
Base Metals operations participate in defined contribution pension plans. Employees in Japan and Taiwan
participate in a defined benefit pension plan. Employees in other jurisdictions, including China, Indonesia,
Malawi, Switzerland and the United States, participate in defined contribution pension plans.

PERFORMANCE-BASED COMPENSATION

All Vale parent-company employees may receive incentive compensation each year in an amount based
on  the  performance  of  Vale,  which  can  range  from  0  to  200%  of  a  market-based  reference  amount,
depending on certain targets set, and the cash generation in each period. Similar incentive compensation
arrangements are in place at our subsidiaries.

Qualifying  management  personnel  are  eligible  to  participate  in  the  PSU  and  Matching  programs.  See
description of these programs under Management compensation—Executive officers.

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

We  and  our  subsidiaries  are  defendants  in  numerous  legal  actions  in  the  ordinary  course  of  business,
including civil, administrative, tax, social security and labor proceedings. The most significant proceedings
are discussed below. Except as otherwise noted below, the amounts claimed, and the amounts of our
provisions  for  possible  losses,  are  stated  as  of  December  31,  2017.  See  note  27  to  our  consolidated
financial statements for further information.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS RELATED TO THE FAILURE OF SAMARCO’S TAILINGS DAM IN MINAS
GERAIS

We are engaged in several legal proceedings relating to the failure of Samarco’s tailings dam in the city of
Mariana,  in  the  state  of  Minas  Gerais.  Most  of  these  proceedings  are  in  early  stages,  and  we  cannot
reasonably estimate the possible loss or range of loss or the timing for a decision. Other proceedings or
investigations relating to the failure of Samarco’s tailings dam are expected.

a) Public civil action filed by the Brazilian government and others

In  November  2015,  the  Brazilian  federal  government,  the  states  of  Minas  Gerais  and  Esp´ırito  Santo,
certain federal and state authorities and certain public entities collectively filed a public civil action before
the 12th Federal Court in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, against Samarco and its shareholders, Vale
and BHPB. The plaintiffs claimed approximately R$20.2 billion in monetary damages and a number of
measures to remediate the environmental damages caused by the Fund ˜ao dam failure. Certain claims
brought by the plaintiffs refer to specific defendants individually, while other claims are directed at all
defendants.

In December 2015, the federal court in Minas Gerais granted an injunction preventing Vale from selling or
otherwise transferring its mining rights in Brazil. In November 2016, the federal court ordered that the
defendants: (i) in 90 days, present evidence that the leakage of waste from Fund ˜ao tailing dam has been
definitely  contained;  (ii)  in  six  months,  present  conclusive  studies,  with  the  endorsement  from  the
appropriate environmental agencies, regarding an action plan and the feasibility of the removal of mud
deposited on the banks of Rio Doce river, its tributaries and the areas near its estuary; (iii) in 30 days, make
a deposit in the total amount of R$1.2 billion to secure future reparation measures. This proceeding is
currently suspended as a result of the Framework Agreement and the preliminary agreements with the
MPF described under item b) below. We submitted to the court documentation to comply with items (i)
and  (ii)  above,  but  the  court  has  not  ruled  on  the  sufficiency  of  these  documents.  The  court  has
provisionally  suspended  our  obligation  to  make  the  R$1.2  billion  cash  deposit  to  the  extent  that  we
provide the guarantees required under the preliminary agreements with the MPF.

In March 2016, we, together with Samarco and BHPB, entered into the Framework Agreement with the
federal government, the state governments of Esp´ırito Santo and Minas Gerais and certain other federal
and state authorities. In January 2017, Samarco, Vale and BHPB entered into two preliminary agreements
with the MPF as described below. We expect the Framework Agreement and the agreements with the
MPF to be a first step towards the settlement of these actions. Any settlement of these actions is subject to
approval by the court.

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b) Public civil action filed by the Federal Prosecution Office

In May 2016, the MPF filed a public civil action before the 12th Federal Court in Belo Horizonte against
Samarco,  Vale,  BHPB,  BNDES  and  the  governmental  authorities  that  are  parties  to  the  Framework
Agreement. In July 2016, the court excluded all the governmental authorities and BNDES as defendants in
this proceeding. In this action, the MPF requested that the court order a broad range of specific actions to
be taken by the various parties. The MPF also stated in its complaint that the required remedial measures
would have a total value of R$155 billion, based on a comparison with the costs of the Deepwater Horizon
oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010.

In this public civil action, the MPF claims monetary damages from the defendants on a joint and several
basis  as  well  as  other  forms  of  relief,  including  injunctions  (i)  ordering  the  defendants  to  implement
several measures to mitigate or remediate social, economic and environmental impacts arising from the
collapse of the Fund ˜ao dam, as well as other emergency measures; (ii) preventing the defendants from
encumbering  or  disposing  of  their  assets;  (iii)  preventing  the  defendants  from  paying  dividends;
(iv)  ordering  the  defendants  to  deposit  R$7.7  billion  into  a  fund,  managed  by  the  defendants,  for
implementation  of  social,  environmental  and  emergency  programs;  (v)  ordering  the  defendants  to
provide collateral in the amount of R$155 billion to secure their compliance with the final court decision;
(vi)  ordering  the  defendants  to  maintain  working  capital  in  the  amount  of  R$2  billion  initially,  and
thereafter in an amount equal to 100% of the expenses of the remediation and compensation measures
projected for the subsequent twelve months; and (vii) ordering BNDES to take actions under its credit
agreements with the defendants, including cessation of further drawings and acceleration of outstanding
principal. A preliminary hearing for conciliation was held in September 2016.

In  January  2017,  Samarco,  Vale  and  BHPB  entered  into  two  preliminary  agreements  with  the  MPF  in
connection with this public civil action and the public civil action brought by the Brazilian government
and others.

The first preliminary agreement consists of an initial transitory agreement, which will be effective until
the parties agree on the terms of a comprehensive agreement, and provides for (i) a process and timetable
for the resolution of the public civil action brought by the Brazilian government and others and the public
civil action brought by the MPF; (ii) the appointment of experts selected by the MPF to review and monitor
the remediation programs provided under the Framework Agreement; (iii) the holding of public hearings
in different communities in the states of Minas Gerais and Esp´ırito Santo and in the territories of the
Krenak, Tupiniquim and Guarani indigenous people; and (iv) the obligation of Samarco, Vale and BHPB to
provide  collateral  to  secure  the  payment  of  the  socio-environmental  and  socio-economic  remediation
measures, in the amount of R$2.2 billion. The required collateral will consist of R$100 million in financial
investments, R$1.3 billion in insurance bonds and R$800 million in assets of Samarco. On November 20,
2017, the court accepted a joint request by Samarco, Vale, BHPB and the MPF to extend the negotiation
period of the comprehensive agreement until April 20, 2018.

The  second  preliminary  agreement  provides  for  a  timetable  to  make  funds  available  for  remediation
measures in the municipalities of Barra Longa, Rio Doce, Santa Cruz do Escalvado and Ponte Nova, in the
total amount of R$200 million.

Both preliminary agreements were ratified by the 12th federal court in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas
Gerais, in 2017.

We  expect  the  Framework  Agreement  and  the  preliminary  agreements  to  be  a  first  step  towards  the
settlement  of  the  public  civil  action  brought  by  the  Brazilian  government  and  others,  the  public  civil
action brought by MPF and other related proceedings.

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c) Criminal proceeding

In October 2016, the MPF filed criminal charges before the federal court of Ponte Nova, state of Minas
Gerais, against Samarco, Vale, BHPB and a number of individuals who were employees of Samarco or
members of Samarco’s governance bodies or advisory committees. The charges include murder, physical
injury and various environmental crimes due to the failure of Samarco’s Fund ˜ao dam.

The  criminal  charges  were  accepted  by  the  judge  in  November  2016,  which  initiated  the  criminal
proceeding. We submitted our initial defense in March 2017 and the parties are now in the evidence-
gathering phase. We are not able to anticipate when a judgement will be issued or when a trial relating to
the murder charges will commence.

d) Class actions in the United States

We and certain of our officers have been named as defendants in civil class action suits in federal courts in
New York brought by holders of our securities and by holders of Samarco’s bonds, each under U.S. federal
securities laws. The plaintiffs allege that we made false and misleading statements or omitted to make
disclosures  concerning  the  risks  of  the  operations  of  Samarco’s  Fund ˜ao  dam  and  the  adequacy  of  the
related programs and procedures. The plaintiffs have not specified an amount of alleged damages in
these actions.

We believe that the claims have no merit, and we will continue contesting them. However, given the
preliminary status of the actions, it is not possible to determine a range of outcomes or reliable estimates
of the potential exposure at this time, and no provision has been recognized so far.

d.1) Related to Vale’s American Depositary Receipts

Vale and certain of its officers were named as defendants in a securities class action in the U.S. Federal
Court for the Southern District of New York brought by holders of Vale’s ADRs under U.S. federal securities
laws.

In March 2017, the Judge issued a ruling dismissing a significant part of the claims against us and the
individual defendants, and allowing the case to continue based on more limited claims. The claims that
were not dismissed relate to certain statements contained in our 2013 and 2014 sustainability reports
concerning risk mitigation plans, policies and procedures, and certain statements made in a conference
call in November 2015 concerning our responsibility for the Fund ˜ao dam collapse. This lawsuit is currently
in the discovery phase.

d.2) Related to the Samarco’s bonds

Vale, together with Samarco and BHPB, was named as defendant in class action alleging violations of U.S.
federal securities laws brought by holders of bonds issued by Samarco in the U.S. Federal Court for the
Southern  District  of  New  York.  The  defendants  filed  a  joint  motion  to  dismiss  the  complaint,  and  a
decision on this motion is still pending. Discovery will not commence until after the court rules on the
defendants’ pending motion.

e) Other proceedings

Vale is a defendant in several public civil actions brought by state prosecutors of Minas Gerais and Esp´ırito
Santo, other authorities or civil associations claiming environmental damages as a result of the failure of

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Samarco’s dam. The relief claimed in these proceedings are generally similar to the claims brought in the
public civil action brought by the Brazilian government and others and the public civil action brought by
the MPF. In 2017, The Superior Court of Justice (STJ) decided that the 12th Federal Court in Belo Horizonte
is the competent court to rule on all these public civil actions. All these public civil actions have been
suspended while we negotiate an agreement with the MPF, as discussed in item b) above.

Vale has been named as a defendant in a number of private actions, before different state and federal
courts  in  the  states  of  Minas  Gerais  and  Esp´ırito  Santo,  brought  by  individuals,  business  entities,
municipalities and other entities seeking remediation and compensation for environmental, property and
personal  damages  resulting  from  the  Fund ˜ao  dam  failure.  These  proceedings  include  requests  for
significant amounts in damages, injunctions, pre-judgment attachment of assets and seizure of our bank
accounts.  Vale  has  settled  part  of  these  suits,  and  continues  to  defend  itself  in  a  number  of  these
proceedings.

Samarco is engaged in several other investigations and proceedings claiming damages resulting from the
dam failure. Immediately after the dam failure, the environmental authority of the state of Minas Gerais
and  the  DNPM  (currently,  ANM)  commenced  an  investigation  into  the  causes  of  the  dam  failure,  and
ordered the suspension of Samarco’s operations pending the conclusion of these investigations.

TUBAR ˜AO PORT LITIGATION

In January 2016, as part of an environmental investigation conducted by the Brazilian federal police, a
federal court in the Brazilian state of Esp´ırito Santo ordered the suspension of our activities in Pier II and
the coal pier of the Tubar ˜ao Port, due to potential environmental damages resulting from the release of
iron ore in the sea area around Pier II and the coal pier. Our operations in Pier II and the coal pier of the
Tubar ˜ao Port were suspended for four days, until the Federal Court of Appeals (‘‘TRF’’) of the Second
Region (Tribunal Regional Federal da Segunda Regi ˜ao) suspended the effects of the injunction. In July
2016,  the  TRF  confirmed  the  suspension  of  the  effects  of  the  injunction  and  ordered  an  expert
investigation to confirm that we had properly implemented measures to monitor, control and mitigate
the  release  of  iron  ore  in  the  terminal.  This  expert  investigation  has  not  started  yet.  As  part  of  this
proceeding, we may be required to implement additional measures to prevent or mitigate the release of
iron ore in the sea.

In September 2017, the federal police concluded its environmental investigation, and recommended that
the MPF press charges against us for environmental crimes resulting from the release of iron ore in the sea
around  the  Tubar ˜ao  port.  We  cannot  anticipate  whether  the  MPF  will  follow  the  federal  police’s
recommendation or whether the MPF will seek other actions against us, including actions that may result
in further suspension of our activities in the Tubar ˜ao port. We will vigorously contest any action against us
resulting from the conclusions of the federal police’s investigation.

ON ¸CA PUMA LITIGATION

In 2009, the MPF brought a public civil action against Vale and the Brazilian state of Par ´a, seeking the
suspension of our nickel operations in On¸ca Puma, in the state of Par ´a, due to the alleged impact on the
Xikrin  do  Catet ´e  and  Kayap ´o  indigenous  communities  located  close  to  the  mining  site.  The  federal
prosecutor contends that (i) our operations would be contaminating the water of the Catete River, which
crosses the communities, (ii) we have failed to comply with certain conditions under our environmental
licenses, and (iii) the state of Par ´a should not have granted environmental license to this operation.

In September 2017, the TRF of the First Region (Tribunal Regional Federal da Primeira Regi ˜ao) granted an
injunction suspending certain of our nickel mining operations at On¸ca Puma and ordering us to make a

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monthly  payment  to  each  member  of  the  Xikrin  and  Kayap ´o  tribes  to  compensate  the  affected
indigenous communities. Our mining activities in On¸ca Puma has been suspended since September 2017.
We have appealed this decision to seek a suspension of this injunction, but a decision on our appeal is still
pending and we cannot anticipate when our mining activities in On¸ca Puma will resume. We believe that
the MPF’s claims have no merit, and will continue to vigorously contest this action.

PUBLIC CIVIL ACTION SEEKING SUSPENSION OF S11D PROJECT

In May 2016, associations representing the indigenous community of Xikrin do Catet ´e brought a public
civil  action  against  Vale,  the  Federal  Environmental  Agency  (IBAMA),  the  Federal  Indigenous  Agency
(FUNAI) and the National Bank of Economic and Social Development (BNDES), seeking the suspension of
the  environmental  permitting  process  of  our  S11D  project.  The  associations  contend  that  FUNAI  and
IBAMA have failed to conduct the appropriate studies regarding the affected indigenous communities
during the environmental permitting process, and consequently that the indigenous groups affected by
this project have not provided the required consent. The plaintiffs also requested a monthly payment of
R$2 million for each association until the defendants conclude the studies.

Applicable law provides for mandatory consultation with the indigenous communities located within ten
kilometers of the project, and these indigenous communities are located more than 12 kilometers away
from  the  project.  We  have  submitted  our  preliminary  defense,  and  in  January  2017  the  court  denied
plaintiffs’ request for an injunction suspending our S11D project.

In  July  2017,  the  judge  of  the  Federal  Court  of  Marab ´a  partially  modified  the  previous  decision  and
ordered that we prepare a study of the impacts of the S11D operation on the Xikrin tribe within 180 days.
This  decision  does  not  affect  our  operations  in  S11D.  We  appealed  this  decision  and  will  continue  to
vigorously contest this action.

ITABIRA SUITS

We are a defendant in two separate actions brought by the municipality of Itabira, in the Brazilian state of
Minas Gerais. In the first action, filed in August 1996, the municipality of Itabira alleges that our Itabira
iron ore mining operations have caused environmental and social harm, and claims damages with respect
to  the  alleged  environmental  degradation  of  the  site  of  one  of  our  mines,  as  well  as  the  immediate
restoration  of  the  affected  ecological  complex  and  the  performance  of  compensatory  environmental
programs  in  the  region.  The  damages  sought,  as  adjusted  from  the  date  of  the  claim,  amount  to
approximately R$4.702 billion. An expert report favorable to Vale has been issued, but the court granted
the  municipality’s  request  for  additional  expert  evidence.  The  elaboration  of  this  additional  expert
evidence is pending.

In the second action, filed in September 1996, the municipality of Itabira claims the right to be reimbursed
for expenses it has incurred in connection with public services rendered as a consequence of our mining
activities.  The  damages  sought,  as  adjusted  from  the  date  of  the  claim,  amount  to  approximately
R$5.440 billion. This proceeding was suspended for a settlement negotiation, but has resumed its normal
course as the parties have not reached an agreement, and the evidence production phase will follow.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING JANGADA AND FEIJ ˜AO MINES

In June 2016, the environmental authority of the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais ordered the suspension of
part of our Jangada and Feij ˜ao mines in the Southern System, in order to protect caves located near these
mines, under Brazilian legislation for the protection of caves. We obtained an injunction from the state

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courts  of  Minas  Gerais  suspending  the  order  of  the  environmental  authority.  On  an  appeal  by  the
environmental authority, the court ordered that we post a bond of R$83 thousand to secure the payment
of a fine imposed in the notice of infringement, but did not revert the decision suspending the order of
the environmental authority. The main proceedings are still ongoing. In the event that the injunction is
overturned  or  revoked,  we  may  be  required  to  suspend  approximately  50%  of  our  operations  at  the
affected mines, with potential consequences for production volumes, costs or reserves in our iron ore
business.  Our  total  production  in  the  Jangada  and  Feij ˜ao  mines  was  49  thousand  metric  tons  and
7.8 million metric tons, respectively, in 2017.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING TAILINGS DAM ‘‘MARAVILHAS III’’

In  October  2017,  the  Public  Prosecutor’s  Office  of  the  State  of  Minas  Gerais  filed  a  lawsuit  against  us
challenging the environmental licenses granted by the environmental authority of the State of Minas
Gerais  for  the  construction  of  the  Maravilhas  III  tailings  dam.  The  court  of  Minas  Gerais  granted  a
preliminary  injunction  suspending  the  project,  but  later  revoked  this  preliminary  injunction,  after  we
presented  technical  arguments  against  the  request  originally  made  by  the  Public  Prosecutor’s  Office,
therefore allowing the project to continue. The Public Prosecutor’s Office appealed the decision, which is
currently in queue to be reviewed by the Court of Appeals. The Maravilhas III tailings dam will support our
operations in the Vargem Grande mining complex, in our Southern System. If the construction of this dam
is interrupted, our operations in the mining complex of Vargem Grande could be adversely impacted.

MINISTRY OF LABOR PROCEEDING

In  February  2015,  following  an  inspection  in  the  facilities  of  a  company  that  provided  transportation
services to us between our mines Mina do Pico and Mina de F ´abrica in Minas Gerais, the Ministry of Labor
determined that this transportation company had failed to comply with certain obligations relating to
health,  safety,  overtime  and  other  labor  matters.  By  adopting  a  broad  interpretation  of  the  law,  the
Ministry  of  Labor  concluded  that  its  employees  were  working  in  conditions  similar  to  slavery.  Upon
learning  of  the  findings,  we  promptly  remediated  the  problems  and  we  eventually  terminated  the
agreement with the transportation company. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Labor made findings against
us.  We  submitted  our  defense  at  the  administrative  level,  which  was  rejected.  In  April  2016,  we
commenced judicial proceedings challenging the administrative findings, and the labor court in May 2016
issued an order preventing the Ministry of Labor from including our name in the list of entities engaging
in practices similar to slavery.

RAILWAY LITIGATION

In 1994, prior to our privatization, we entered into a contract with Rede Ferrovi ´aria Federal S.A. (‘‘RFFSA’’),
the Brazilian federal rail network, to build two railway networks in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, which were to
be incorporated into an existing railway segment, in a project called ‘‘Transposi¸c ˜ao de Belo Horizonte.’’
We  subsequently  entered  into  a  related  agreement  with  the  Brazilian  government  to  begin  the
construction of an alternative railway segment, because the initially agreed segments could not be built.
In  August  2006,  RFFSA  (now  succeeded  as  defendant  by  the  Brazilian  government)  filed  a  breach  of
contract claim against us stemming from the 1994 contract regarding the construction of two railway
networks.

Before  the  RFFSA  lawsuit  was  filed,  we  had  filed  a  claim  against  RFFSA  challenging  the  inflation
adjustment provisions in the contract with RFFSA. We contend that the method of calculation employed
by the Brazilian government is not lawful under Brazilian law. Pursuant to a partial settlement of the
original RFFSA lawsuit, if the claim is decided in the Brazilian government’s favor, then the construction

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costs of the new railway segment assumed by Vale will offset the damages due from Vale under such
claim, representing a significant reduction in the amount we would be required to pay.

In June 2012, the federal judge rejected both RFFSA’s claims and our contractual claim for review of the
inflation adjustment provisions. On February 24, 2016, the Federal Court of Appeals (Tribunal Regional
Federal)  affirmed  the  June  2012  decision  of  the  federal  judge.  An  RFFSA  request  for  clarification  and
special  and  extraordinary  appeals  by  RFFSA  were  each  denied  by  the  Federal  Court  of  Appeals.  On
January 8, 2018, RFFSA filed appeals to the Federal Supreme Court (STF) and to the Superior Court of
Justice (STJ). Our appeal is still pending before the STJ in the lawsuit brought by Vale against RFFSA. The
current amount claimed by RFFSA, including adjustments for inflation and interest, is approximately of
R$4.5 billion. Our appeal is still pending before the STJ in the lawsuit brought by Vale against RFFSA.

PRAIA MOLE SUIT

We are among the defendants in a public civil action filed by the MPF in November 1997 seeking to annul
the concession agreements under which the defendants operate the Praia Mole maritime terminal in the
Brazilian state of Esp´ırito Santo. In July 2012, the Federal Court of Appeals affirmed the November 2007
decision that rejected MPF’s claim and recognized the validity of those concession agreements. The MPF
has appealed that ruling, and a final decision on the appeal is still pending.

CITIZEN SUIT AGAINST THE CONVERSION OF PREFERRED SHARES INTO COMMON SHARES

We  are  a  defendant  on  a  citizen  suit  (a¸c ˜ao  popular)  brought  by  certain  officers  of  FUNCEF  (Caixa
Econ ˆomica  Federal’s  pension  fund)  and  oil  sector  workers  challenging  (i)  the  conversion  of  preferred
class A shares into common shares; (ii) any actions to terminate the current controlling shareholder group;
(iii)  Valepar’s  merger  into  Vale;  and  (iv)  all  other  resolutions  and  approvals  that  took  place  at  the
extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held on June 27, 2017. These plaintiffs allege that the new corporate
structure and Vale’s migration to the Novo Mercado segment would result in damages and losses to the
Brazilian Federal Government and its controlled entities, and request annulment of the extraordinary
shareholders’ meeting held on June 27, 2017 in its entirety. In August 2017, the federal court in Brasilia
rejected the preliminary injunction requested by the plaintiffs.

We  submitted  our  defense  in  January  2018.  We  believe  that  the  claims  have  no  merit,  and  we  will
vigorously contest this action.

TAX PROCEEDINGS

a) CFEM-related proceedings

We  are  engaged  in  numerous  administrative  and  judicial  proceedings  related  to  the  mining  royalty
known as the CFEM. For more information about CFEM, see Information on the Company—Regulatory
matters—Royalties and other taxes on mining activities. These proceedings arise out of a large number of
assessments  by  the  DNPM.  The  proceedings  concern  different  interpretations  of  DNPM’s  method  of
estimating sales, the statute of limitations, due process of law, payment of royalties on pellet sales and
CFEM charges on the revenues generated by our subsidiaries abroad. The aggregate amount claimed in
the  pending  assessments  is  approximately  R$7.3  billion,  including  interest  and  penalties  through
December 31, 2017.

We  are  contesting  DNPM’s  claims  using  the  available  avenues  under  Brazilian  law,  beginning  with
challenges  in  administrative  tribunals  and  proceeding  with  challenges  in  the  judicial  courts.  We  have

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received some favorable and unfavorable decisions, and we cannot predict the amount of time required
before final judicial resolutions.

DNPM’s  assessments  initially  covered  a  period  of  up  to  20  years  before  their  issuances,  based  on  the
interpretation that the applicable statute of limitation for CFEM claims would be 20 years. We challenged
all the assessments contending that these claims are subject to a 5-year statute of limitation. In December
2015, the Attorney General’s Office issued a legal opinion concluding that CFEM claims are subject to a
10-year statute of limitations. This conclusion is consistent with recent decisions of the Superior Court of
Justice (‘‘STJ’’), and we expect that the DNPM will revise all the assessments to exclude charges that are
time barred under this legal opinion.

b) ICMS tax assessments and legal proceedings

We are engaged in several administrative and court proceedings relating to additional charges of value-
added tax on services and circulation of goods (ICMS) by the tax authorities of different Brazilian states. In
each of these proceedings, the tax authorities claim that (i) certain credits we have deducted from our
payments of ICMS were not deductible; (ii) we have failed to comply with certain accessory obligations;
(iii)  are  required  to  pay  the  ICMS  on  electricity  purchases  and  (iv)  we  are  required  to  pay  ICMS  in
connection with goods that we bring into the State of Par ´a. We estimate our possible losses resulting from
these proceedings in R$3.0 billion.

In 2017, we joined the Programa de Regulariza¸c ˜ao de Cr ´editos Tribut ´arios (‘‘PRCT’’), a state program for
ICMS  tax  settlement  in  the  state  of  Minas  Gerais.  Pursuant  to  the  PRCT,  we  paid  a  total  amount  of
R$93  million,  subject  to  adjustments,  to  settle  approximately  R$1.5  billion  in  ICMS  taxes  in  dispute  in
Minas Gerais.

The  PRCT  settlement  does  not  include  tax  assessments  involving  ICMS  charges  over  the  costs  of
transportation of iron ore directly by us. The tax authorities of the State of Minas Gerais contend that we
should have paid ICMS in relation to the transportation of iron ore, but we understand that ICMS is not
applicable to this activity because the ore was transported directly by us. The State of Minas Gerais court
has  decided  in  our  favor  with  respect  to  tax  assessments  covering  activities  in  2009  and  2010  in  an
aggregate amount of R$608 million. With respect to activities in 2011, 2012 and 2013, the amount in
dispute is R$917 million. We expect a favorable outcome in all these cases, and for this reason we have not
included these taxes in the PRCT.

In connection with a legal proceeding relating to ICMS, prosecutors in the state of Rio de Janeiro are
seeking criminal charges against members of management of our subsidiary MBR, alleging tax fraud. The
defense  has  presented  its  case  in  the  criminal  proceeding  against  these  individuals  and  a  decision  is
pending. The amount involved in the underlying tax proceeding is small (approximately R$11 million). We
believe that these allegations are without merit.

c) Litigation on Brazilian taxation of foreign subsidiaries

We are engaged in legal proceedings concerning the contention of the Brazilian federal tax authority
(Receita Federal) that we should pay Brazilian corporate income tax and social security contributions on
the net income of our non-Brazilian subsidiaries and affiliates. The position of the tax authority is based
on Article 74 of Brazilian Provisional Measure 2,158-34/2001 (‘‘Article 74’’), a tax regulation issued in 2001.

In  2013,  we  significantly  reduced  the  amount  in  dispute  by  participating  in  the  REFIS,  a  federal  tax
settlement  program  for  payment  of  amounts  relating  to  Brazilian  corporate  income  tax  and  social

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contribution.  We  settled  the  claims  related  to  the  net  income  of  our  non-Brazilian  subsidiaries  and
affiliates from 2003 to 2012, and we continue to dispute the assessments with respect to 1996 to 2002.
Under the REFIS, we paid US$2.6 billion in 2013, and we agreed to pay the remaining US$7.0 billion in
monthly installments, bearing interest at the SELIC rate. SELIC is a variable interest rate, established by the
Brazilian central bank, used to update federal tax obligations in Brazil. On December, 31, 2017, the SELIC
rate was 7.0% per annum (as compared to 13.75% per annum on December 31, 2016). As of December 31,
2017, the remaining balance was US$5.249 billion, to be paid in 130 further installments.

We  had  initiated  a  direct  legal  proceeding  (mandado  de  seguran¸ca)  in  2003  challenging  the  tax
authority’s position. In December 2013, as required by the REFIS statute, we waived the legal arguments
with respect to the period between 2003 and 2012. We are continuing our direct legal proceeding with
respect to the years not included in the REFIS. At December 31, 2017, the total amount in dispute for the
period between 1996 and 2002 was R$2.277 billion. In 2014, the Superior Court of Justice (STJ) ruled in our
favor on certain of our arguments against those assessments. The tax authorities filed an appeal before
the Federal Supreme Court and a decision is pending.

d) Assessments and legal proceedings related to PIS/COFINS

Between 2011 and 2017, we received tax assessments from the Brazilian federal tax authority contending
that we incorrectly claimed PIS and COFINS tax credits for the period between 2004 and 2011. PIS and
COFINS are taxes imposed by the Brazilian government on our gross revenues, which may be partially
offset by credits resulting from PIS and COFINS payments made by our suppliers. The tax authorities claim
that (i) some credits we have deducted from our payments of PIS and COFINS were not deductible and
(ii)  we  have  not  submitted  adequate  evidence  of  certain  other  credits.  We  are  contesting  these
assessments in the administrative level. The total amount in dispute is R$3.8 billion.

e) Income tax assessments

In  2004,  a  decision  of  the  Brazilian  Superior  Court  of  Justice  (STJ)  granted  us  the  right  to  deduct  the
amounts we pay as social security contributions on the net income (CSLL) from our taxable income. In
2006,  the  Brazilian  federal  tax  authorities  commenced  a  rescission  action  (a¸c ˜ao  rescis ´oria)  against  us,
seeking the reversal of the 2004 decision. The rescission action was rejected by the federal court in Rio de
Janeiro and by the Federal Court of Appeals (TRF) of the Second Region. The tax authorities appealed to
the Superior Court of Justice (STJ) and to the Supreme Court (STF), and the STJ determined that the TRF
had not properly considered one of the questions raised by the Federal Government, and remanded the
case for further decision of the TRF. If the courts decide for rescission of the 2004 decision, we will no
longer  be  able  to  deduct  the  CSLL  from  our  future  taxable  income,  and  the  decision  will  determine
whether or not we will be required to supplement the income tax payments we made between 2003 and
2016. As of December 31, 2017, the total CSLL deducted from our taxable income between 2003 and 2017
was R$6.652 billion.

f) Fines on the undue deduction of tax credits

In 2017, we received multiple assessments from the Brazilian federal tax authority imposing fines due to
allegedly undue deduction of tax credits from our payments of income tax and contributions on the net
income (CSLL). In these cases, the tax authority challenged our right to set off certain tax credits and issued
assessments  imposing  fines  in  the  amount  of  50%  of  the  amount  that  was  unduly  deducted.  As  of
December 31, 2017, the total amount of fines imposed under these assessments were R$408.8 million, and
new  assessments  are  expected.  We  are  challenging  these  assessments  in  administrative  proceedings.
These assessments cover only the fines resulting from the allegedly undue deductions, as the principal
amount of unpaid taxes, interest and other penalties for late payment are being discussed in separate

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administrative  proceedings. 
in  these  separate  administrative  proceedings,  the
corresponding fines are expected to be cancelled. The legal grounds for these fines are currently being
discussed by another company before the Federal Supreme Court (STF), and a favorable decision to this
other company will applicable to other taxpayers, including us.

If  we  succeed 

Legal Proceedings

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MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

COMPANY OBJECTIVES AND PURPOSES

Our corporate purpose is defined by our bylaws to include:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

the exploration of mineral deposits in Brazil and abroad by means of research, extraction,
processing, industrialization, transportation, shipment and commerce of mineral goods;

the building and operation of railways and the provision of our own or unrelated-party rail
traffic;

the  building  and  operation  of  our  own  or  unrelated-party  maritime  terminals,  and  the
provision of shipping activities and port services;

the  provision  of  logistics  services  integrated  with  cargo  transport,  including  inflow
management,  storage,  transshipment,  distribution  and  delivery,  all  within  a  multimodal
transport system;

the production, processing, transport, industrialization and commercialization of any and all
sources  and  forms  of  energy,  including  the  production,  generation,  transmission,
distribution and commercialization of our own products, derivatives and sub products;

engagement,  in  Brazil  or  abroad,  in  other  activities  that  may  be  of  direct  or  indirect
consequence  for  the  achievement  of  our  corporate  purposes,  including  research,
industrialization,  purchases  and  sales,  importation  and  exportation,  the  development,
industrialization and commercialization of forest resources and the provision of services of
any kind whatsoever; and

the  establishment  or  participation,  in  any  fashion,  in  other  companies,  consortia  or
associations directly or indirectly related to our business purpose.

COMMON SHARES AND GOLDEN SHARES

Set forth below is certain information concerning our authorized and issued share capital and a brief
summary of certain significant provisions of our bylaws and Brazilian corporate law. This description does
not purport to be complete and is qualified by reference to our bylaws (an English translation of which we
have filed with the SEC) and to Brazilian corporate law.

Our bylaws authorize the issuance of up to 7 billion common shares based solely on the approval of the
Board of Directors without any additional shareholder approval.

The Brazilian government holds 12 golden shares of Vale. Our bylaws do not provide for the conversion of
golden shares into common shares. In addition, the golden shares do not have any preference upon our
liquidation and there are no redemption provisions associated with the golden shares.

Voting rights

Pursuant to Brazilian corporate law, on-controlling shareholders holding common shares representing at
least 15% of a company’s voting capital have the right to appoint one member and an alternate to the
board of directors. If no group of common shareholders meets this threshold, shareholders representing
at least 10% of the total share capital are entitled to combine their holdings to appoint one member and

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an alternate to the Board of Directors. Non-controlling holders of common shares may also elect one
member of the Fiscal Council and an alternate, pursuant to applicable CVM rules. Holders of the golden
shares may elect one member of the permanent Fiscal Council and the respective alternate.

The golden shares are preferred shares that entitle the holder to veto any proposed action relating to the
following matters:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

a change in our name;

a change in the location of our head office;

a change in our corporate purpose as regards mining activities;

any liquidation of the Company;

any disposal or winding up of activities in any of the following parts of our iron ore mining
integrated systems: mineral deposits, ore deposits, mines, railways, or ports and maritime
terminals;

any change in the bylaws relating to the rights afforded to the classes of capital stock issued
by us; and

any change in the bylaws relating to the rights afforded the golden shares.

Shareholders’ meetings

Our Ordinary General Shareholders’ Meeting is convened by April of each year for shareholders to resolve
upon our financial statements, distribution of profits, election of Directors and Fiscal Council Members, if
necessary, and compensation of senior management. Extraordinary General Shareholders’ Meetings are
convened  by  the  Board  of  Directors  as  necessary  in  order  to  decide  all  other  matters  relating  to  our
corporate purposes and to pass such other resolutions as may be necessary.

Pursuant  to  Brazilian  corporate  law,  shareholders  voting  at  a  general  shareholders’  meeting  have  the
power, among other powers, to:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

amend the bylaws;

elect or dismiss members of the Board of Directors and members of the Fiscal Council at any
time;

establish the remuneration of senior management and members of the Fiscal Council;

receive  annual  reports  by  management  and  accept  or  reject  management’s  financial
statements  and  recommendations  including  the  allocation  of  net  profits  and  the
distributable amount for payment of the mandatory dividend and allocation to the various
reserve accounts;

(cid:127)

authorize the issuance of convertible and secured debentures;

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(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

suspend the rights of a shareholder in default of obligations established by law or by the
bylaws;

accept or reject the valuation of assets contributed by a shareholder in consideration for
issuance of capital stock;

pass resolutions to reorganize our legal form, to merge, consolidate or split us, to dissolve
and liquidate us, to elect and dismiss our liquidators and to examine their accounts; and

authorize management to file for bankruptcy or to request a judicial restructuring.

Pursuant  to  CVM  recommendations,  all  general  shareholders’  meetings,  including  the  annual
shareholders’  meeting,  require  no  fewer  than  30  days’  notice  to  shareholders  prior  to  the  scheduled
meeting date. Where any general shareholders’ meeting is adjourned, 8 days’ prior notice to shareholders
of the reconvened meeting is required. Pursuant to Brazilian corporate law, this notice to shareholders is
required to be published no fewer than three times, in the Di ´ario Oficial do Estado do Rio de Janeiro and
in  a  newspaper  with  general  circulation  in  the  city  where  we  have  our  registered  office,  in  Rio  de
Janeiro—Valor  Econ ˆomico—Estado  do  Rio  de  Janeiro  is  the  newspaper  currently  designated  for  this
purpose. Such notice must contain the agenda for the meeting and, in the case of an amendment to our
bylaws, an indication of the meeting’s subject matter. In addition, under our bylaws, the holder of the
golden shares is entitled to a minimum of 15 days’ prior formal notice to its legal representative of any
general shareholders’ meeting to consider any proposed action subject to the veto rights accorded to the
golden shares. See—Common shares and preferred shares.

A  shareholders’  meeting  may  be  held  if  shareholders  representing  at  least  one-quarter  of  the  voting
capital are present, except as otherwise provided, including for meetings convened to amend our bylaws,
which require a quorum of at least two-thirds of the voting capital. If no such quorum is present, notice
must  again  be  given  in  the  same  manner  as  described  above,  and  a  meeting  may  then  be  convened
without any specific quorum requirement, subject to the minimum quorum and voting requirements for
certain matters, as discussed below.

Except  as  otherwise  provided  by  law,  resolutions  of  a  shareholders’  meeting  are  passed  by  a  simple
majority vote, abstentions not being taken into account. Under Brazilian corporate law, the approval of
shareholders representing at least one-half of the issued and outstanding voting shares is required for the
types of action described below, as well as, in the case of the first two items below, a majority of issued
and outstanding shares of the affected class:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

creating a new class of preferred shares with greater privileges than the golden shares or
changing a priority, preference, right, privilege or condition of redemption or amortization
of the golden shares;

reducing the mandatory dividend;

changing the corporate purposes;

(cid:127) merging us with another company or consolidating or splitting us;

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

participating in a centralized group of companies as defined under Brazilian corporate law;

dissolving or liquidating us; and

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(cid:127)

canceling any ongoing liquidation of us.

Whenever the shares of any class of capital stock are entitled to vote, each share is entitled to one vote.
Annual shareholders’ meetings must be held by April 30 of each year. Shareholders’ meetings are called,
convened and presided over by the chairman or, in case of his absence, by the vice-chairman of our Board
of Directors. In the case of temporary impediment or absence of the chairman or vice-chairman of the
Board of Directors, the shareholders’ meetings may be chaired by their respective alternates, or in the
absence  or  impediment  of  such  alternates,  by  a  director  or  other  person  especially  appointed  by  the
chairman of the Board of Directors.

A shareholder may be represented at a general shareholders’ meeting by a proxy appointed in accordance
with applicable Brazilian law not more than one year before the meeting, who must be a shareholder, a
company officer, a lawyer or a financial institution. If the proxy document is in a foreign language, it must
be accompanied by corporate documents or a power of attorney, as applicable, each duly translated into
Portuguese by a sworn translator. Notarization and consularization of proxies and supporting documents
is not required. Proxies and supporting documents in English or Spanish do not require translation.

Redemption rights

Our  common  shares  and  golden  shares  are  not  redeemable,  except  that  a  dissenting  shareholder  is
entitled under Brazilian corporate law to obtain redemption upon a decision made at a shareholders’
meeting approving any of the items listed above, as well as:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

any decision to transfer all of our shares to another company in order to make us a wholly
owned subsidiary of such company, a stock merger;

any  decision  to  approve  the  acquisition  of  control  of  another  company  at  a  price  which
exceeds certain limits set forth in Brazilian corporate law; or

in the event that the entity resulting from (a) a merger, (b) a stock merger as described in
clause (i) above or (c) a spin-off that we conduct fails to become a listed company within
120 days of the general shareholders’ meeting at which such decision was taken.

The right of redemption triggered by shareholder decisions to merge, consolidate or to participate in a
centralized group of companies may only be exercised if our shares do not satisfy certain tests of liquidity,
among others, at the time of the shareholder resolution. The right of redemption lapses 30 days after
publication of the minutes of the relevant general shareholders’ meeting, unless the resolution is subject
to confirmation by the holder of golden shares (which must be made at a special meeting to be held
within one year), in which case the 30-day term is counted from the publication of the minutes of the
special meeting.

We would be entitled to reconsider any action giving rise to redemption rights within 10 days following
the expiration of such rights if the redemption of shares of dissenting shareholders would jeopardize our
financial stability. Any redemption pursuant to Brazilian corporate law would be made at no less than the
book value per share, determined on the basis of the last balance sheet approved by the shareholders;
provided that if the general shareholders’ meeting giving rise to redemption rights occurred more than
60 days after the date of the last approved balance sheet, a shareholder would be entitled to demand that
his or her shares be valued on the basis of a new balance sheet dated within 60 days of such general
shareholders’ meeting.

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Preemptive rights

Each of our shareholders has a general preemptive right to subscribe for shares in any capital increase, in
proportion to his or her shareholding. A minimum period of 30 days following the publication of notice of
a capital increase is assured for the exercise of the right, and the right is transferable. Under our bylaws
and Brazilian corporate law, and subject to the requirement for shareholder approval of any necessary
increase to our authorized share capital, our Board of Directors may decide not to extend preemptive
rights to our shareholders, or to reduce the 30-day period for the exercise of preemptive rights, in each
case with respect to any issuance of shares, debentures convertible into shares or warrants in the context
of a public offering.

Tag-along rights and mandatory tender offers

In accordance with Novo Mercado listing rules and our bylaws:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

in case of a transfer of control, the purchaser must conduct a tender offer to purchase any
and all of our common shares for the same price paid for the voting shares representing
control;

in  case  of  a  proposed  delisting  from  the  Novo  Mercado  segment  of  B3,  the  controlling
shareholder must conduct a public offer to acquire any and all of our common shares for a
price corresponding to the economic value of the shares, as determined in an independent
appraisal valuation; and

any shareholder who acquires 25% of our outstanding capital stock must, within 30 days
after the date in which such shareholder achieved the 25% stake, make a tender offer for
any and all of our common shares (oferta p ´ublica para aquisi¸c ˜ao) for a price equal to the
greatest of (i) the economic value of the shares, (ii) 120% of the weighted average price of
our common shares in the 60 trading days preceding the announcement of the tender offer
and (iii) 120% of the highest price paid by the purchaser in the 12 months before achieving
the 25% stake.

Calculation of distributable amount

At each annual shareholders’ meeting, the Board of Directors is required to recommend, based on the
executive officers’ proposal, how to allocate our earnings for the preceding fiscal year. For purposes of
Brazilian corporate law, a company’s net income after income taxes and social contribution taxes for such
fiscal year, net of any accumulated losses from prior fiscal years and amounts allocated to employees’ and
management’s participation in earnings represents its ‘‘net profits’’ for such fiscal year. In accordance with
Brazilian corporate law, an amount equal to our net profits, as further reduced by amounts allocated to
the  legal  reserve,  to  the  fiscal  incentive  investment  reserve,  to  the  contingency  reserve  or  to  the
unrealized  income  reserve  established  by  us  in  compliance  with  applicable  law  (discussed  below)  and
increased by reversals of reserves constituted in prior years, is available for distribution to shareholders in
any given year. Such amount, the adjusted net profits, is referred to herein as the distributable amount.
We may also establish discretionary reserves, such as reserves for investment projects.

The  Brazilian  corporate  law  provides  that  all  discretionary  allocations  of  net  profits,  including
discretionary  reserves,  the  contingency  reserve,  the  unrealized  income  reserve  and  the  reserve  for
investment projects, are subject to approval by the shareholders voting at the annual meeting and can be
transferred  to  capital  or  used  for  the  payment  of  dividends  in  subsequent  years.  The  fiscal  incentive

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investment reserve and legal reserve are also subject to approval by the shareholders voting at the annual
meeting  and  may  be  transferred  to  capital  but  are  not  available  for  the  payment  of  dividends  in
subsequent years.

The sum of certain discretionary reserves may not exceed the amount of our paid-in capital. When such
limit is reached, our shareholders may vote to use the excess to pay in capital, increase capital or distribute
dividends.

Our calculation of net profits and allocations to reserves for any fiscal year are determined on the basis of
the  unconsolidated  financial  statements  of  our  parent  company,  Vale  S.A.,  in  reais,  prepared  in
accordance with Brazilian corporate law. Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in
accordance with IFRS using U.S. dollars as the reporting currency and, although our allocations to reserves
and dividends will be reflected in these financial statements, investors will not be able to calculate such
allocations or required dividend amounts from our consolidated financial statements in U.S. dollars.

Mandatory dividend

The Brazilian corporate law and our bylaws prescribe that we must distribute to our shareholders in the
form of dividends or interest on shareholders’ equity an annual amount equal to not less than 25% of the
distributable amount, referred to as the mandatory dividend, unless the Board of Directors advises our
shareholders  at  our  general  shareholders’  meeting  that  payment  of  the  mandatory  dividend  for  the
preceding year is inadvisable in light of our financial condition. To date, our Board of Directors has never
determined that payment of the mandatory dividend was inadvisable. The Fiscal Council must review any
such determination and report it to the shareholders. In addition to the mandatory dividend, our Board of
Directors may recommend to the shareholders payment of dividends from other funds legally available
therefore.  Any  payment  of  interim  dividends  will  be  netted  against  the  amount  of  the  mandatory
dividend for that fiscal year. The shareholders must also approve the recommendation of the Board of
Directors with respect to any required distribution. The amount of the mandatory dividend is subject to
the size of the legal reserve, the contingency reserve, and the unrealized income reserve. The amount of
the  mandatory  dividend  is  not  subject  to  the  size  of  the  discretionary  tax  incentive  reserve.
See—Calculation of distributable amount.

Distributions classified as shareholders’ equity

Brazilian companies are permitted to pay limited amounts to shareholders and treat such payments as an
expense  for  Brazilian  income  tax  purposes.  Our  bylaws  provide  for  the  distribution  of  interest  on
shareholders’  equity  as  an  alternative  form  of  payment  to  shareholders.  The  interest  rate  applied  is
limited to the Brazilian long-term interest rate, or TJLP, for the applicable period. The deduction of the
amount of interest paid cannot exceed the greater of (1) 50% of net income (after the deduction of the
provision of social contribution on net profits and before the deduction of the provision of the corporate
income  tax)  before  taking  into  account  any  such  distribution  for  the  period  in  respect  of  which  the
payment is made or (2) 50% of the sum of retained earnings and profit reserves. Any payment of interest
on  shareholders’  equity  is  subject  to  Brazilian  withholding  income  tax.  See  Additional  information—
Taxation—Brazilian tax considerations. Under our bylaws, the amount paid to shareholders as interest on
shareholders’ equity (net of any withholding tax) may be included as part of any mandatory and minimum
dividend.  Under  Brazilian  corporate  law,  we  are  obligated  to  distribute  to  shareholders  an  amount
sufficient to ensure that the net amount received, after payment by us of applicable Brazilian withholding
taxes in respect of the distribution of interest on shareholders’ equity, is at least equal to the mandatory
dividend.

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Form and transfer of shares

Our common shares and golden shares are in book-entry form registered in the name of each shareholder.
The transfer of such shares is made under Brazilian corporate law, which provides that a transfer of shares
is effected by our transfer agent, Banco Bradesco, upon presentation of valid share transfer instructions to
us by a transferor or its representative. When common shares are acquired or sold on a Brazilian stock
exchange, the transfer is effected on the records of our transfer agent by a representative of a brokerage
firm or the stock exchange’s clearing system. Transfers of shares by a foreign investor are made in the
same  way  and  are  executed  by  the  investor’s  local  agent,  who  is  also  responsible  for  updating  the
information relating to the foreign investment furnished to the Central Bank of Brazil.

The  B3  operates  a  central  clearing  system  through  Companhia  Brasileira  de  Liquida¸c ˜ao  e  Cust ´odia,  or
CBLC. A holder of our shares may participate in this system and all shares elected to be put into the system
will be deposited in custody with CBLC (through a Brazilian institution that is duly authorized to operate
by the Central Bank of Brazil and maintains a clearing account with CBLC). The fact that such shares are
subject to custody with the relevant stock exchange will be reflected in our registry of shareholders. Each
participating shareholder will, in turn, be registered in the register of our beneficial shareholders that is
maintained by CBLC and will be treated in the same way as registered shareholders.

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SHAREHOLDER DEBENTURES

At the time of the first stage of our privatization in 1997, we issued shareholder revenue interests known
in Brazil as ‘‘deb ˆentures participativas’’ to our then-existing shareholders. The terms of the debentures
were established to ensure that our pre-privatization shareholders, including the Brazilian government,
would  participate  alongside  us  in  potential  future  financial  benefits  that  we  derive  from  exploiting
certain mineral resources that were not taken into account in determining the minimum purchase price of
our shares in the privatization. In accordance with the debentures deed, holders have the right to receive
semi-annual payments equal to an agreed percentage of our net revenues (revenues less value-added tax,
transport  fee  and  insurance  expenses  related  to  the  trading  of  the  products)  from  certain  identified
mineral resources that we owned at the time of the privatization, to the extent that we exceed defined
thresholds of sales volume relating to certain mineral resources, and from the sale of mineral rights that
we owned at that time. Our obligation to make payments to the holders will cease when the relevant
mineral resources are exhausted.

We  made  available  for  withdrawal  by  holders  of  shareholder  debentures  US$65  million  in  2015,
US$84 million in 2016 and US$135 million in 2017. In October 2013, the accumulated sales volume of iron
ore from the Northern System reached the relevant threshold established in the debentures deed, which
triggered our obligation to make additional semi-annual payments of the premium on iron ore products,
starting in 2014. See note 13 to our consolidated financial statements for a description of the terms of the
debentures.

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EXCHANGE CONTROLS AND OTHER LIMITATIONS
AFFECTING SECURITY HOLDERS

Under Brazilian corporate law, there are no restrictions on ownership of our capital stock by individuals or
legal entities domiciled outside Brazil. However, the right to convert dividend payments and proceeds
from the sale of common shares into foreign currency and to remit such amounts outside Brazil is subject
to restrictions under foreign investment legislation, which generally requires, among other things, that
the relevant investment be registered with the Central Bank of Brazil. These restrictions on the remittance
of foreign capital abroad could hinder or prevent the depositary bank and its agents for the common
shares represented by ADSs from converting dividends, distributions or the proceeds from any sale of
common shares or rights, as the case may be, into U.S. dollars and remitting such amounts abroad. Delays
in, or refusal to grant any required government approval for conversions of Brazilian currency payments
and remittances abroad of amounts owed to holders of ADSs could adversely affect holders of ADRs.

Under Resolution No. 4,373/2014 of the CMN, foreign investors may invest in almost all financial assets
and engage in almost all transactions available in the Brazilian financial and capital markets, provided
that certain requirements are fulfilled. In accordance with Resolution No. 4,373/2014, the definition of
foreign investor includes individuals, legal entities, mutual funds and other collective investment entities,
domiciled or headquartered outside Brazil.

Under Resolution No. 4,373/2014, a foreign investor must:

i. appoint at least one representative in Brazil, with powers to perform actions relating to

its investment,

ii. complete the appropriate foreign investor registration form,

iii. register as a foreign investor with the CVM, and register its foreign investment with the

Central Bank of Brazil, and

iv. appoint  a  custodian,  duly  licensed  by  the  Central  Bank  of  Brazil,  if  the  Brazilian

representative in item (1) is not a financial institution.

Resolution No. 4,373/2014 specifies the manner of custody and the permitted means for trading securities
held by foreign investors under the resolution. The offshore transfer or assignment of securities or other
financial assets held by foreign investors pursuant to Resolution No. 4,373/2014 is prohibited, except for
transfers  resulting  from  a  corporate  reorganization,  or  occurring  upon  the  death  of  an  investor  by
operation of law or will.

Resolution  No.  4,373/2014  also  provides  for  the  issuance  of  depositary  receipts  in  foreign  markets  in
respect of shares of Brazilian issuers. It provides that the proceeds from the sale of ADSs by holders of
ADRs outside Brazil are not subject to Brazilian foreign investment controls and holders of ADSs who are
not residents of a low-tax jurisdiction (pa´ıs com tributa¸c ˜ao favorecida), as defined by Brazilian law, will be
entitled to favorable tax treatment.

An electronic registration has been issued to the custodian in the name of the depositary with respect to
the ADSs. Pursuant to this electronic registration, the custodian and the depositary are able to convert
dividends and other distributions with respect to the underlying shares into foreign currency and to remit
the proceeds outside Brazil. If a holder exchanges ADSs for common shares, the holder must, within five
business days, seek to obtain its own electronic registration with the Central Bank of Brazil under Law
No. 4,131/1962 and Resolution No. 4,373/2014. Thereafter, unless the holder has registered its investment

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Exchange Controls and Other Limitations Affecting Security Holders

with the Central Bank of Brazil, such holder may not convert into foreign currency and remit outside
Brazil the proceeds from the disposition of, or distributions with respect to, such common shares.

Under Brazilian law, whenever there is a serious imbalance in Brazil’s balance of payments or reasons to
foresee  a  serious  imbalance,  the  Brazilian  government  may  impose  temporary  restrictions  on  the
remittance to foreign investors of the proceeds of their investments in Brazil, and on the conversion of
Brazilian  currency  into  foreign  currencies.  Such  restrictions  may  hinder  or  prevent  the  custodian  or
holders who have exchanged ADSs for underlying common shares from converting distributions or the
proceeds from any sale of such shares, as the case may be, into U.S. dollars and remitting such U.S. dollars
abroad. In the event the custodian is prevented from converting and remitting amounts owed to foreign
investors, the custodian will hold the reais it cannot convert for the account of the holders of ADRs who
have not been paid. The depositary will not invest the reais and will not be liable for interest on those
amounts. Any reais so held will be subject to devaluation risk against the U.S. dollar.

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TAXATION

The  following  summary  contains  a  description  of  the  principal  Brazilian  and  U.S.  federal  income  tax
consequences of the ownership and disposition of common shares or ADSs. You should know that this
summary does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all the tax considerations that may be
relevant to a holder of common shares or ADSs.

Holders of common shares or ADSs should consult their own tax advisors to discuss the tax consequences
of the purchase, ownership and disposition of common shares or ADSs, including, in particular, the effect
of any state, local or other national tax laws.

Although there is at present no treaty to avoid double taxation between Brazil and the United States,
both countries’ tax authorities have been having discussions that may result in the execution of such a
treaty. In this regard, the two countries signed a Tax Information Exchange Agreement on March 20, 2007,
which the Brazilian government approved in May 2013. We cannot predict whether or when such a treaty
will enter into force or how, if entered into, such a treaty will affect the U.S. holders, as defined below, of
common shares or ADSs.

BRAZILIAN TAX CONSIDERATIONS

The  following  discussion  summarizes  the  principal  Brazilian  tax  consequences  of  the  acquisition,
ownership and disposition of common shares or ADSs by a holder not deemed to be domiciled in Brazil for
purposes  of  Brazilian  taxation  (‘‘Non-Brazilian  Holder’’).  It  is  based  on  the  tax  laws  of  Brazil  and
regulations  thereunder  in  effect  on  the  date  hereof,  which  are  subject  to  change  (possibly  with
retroactive  effect).  This  discussion  does  not  specifically  address  all  of  the  Brazilian  tax  considerations
applicable to any particular Non-Brazilian Holder. Therefore, Non-Brazilian Holders should consult their
own tax advisors concerning the Brazilian tax consequences of an investment in common shares or ADSs.

Shareholder distributions

For Brazilian corporations, such as Vale, distributions to shareholders are classified as either dividend or
interest on shareholders’ equity.

Dividends

Amounts distributed as dividends will generally not be subject to Brazilian withholding income tax if the
distribution  is  paid  only  from  profits  for  the  corresponding  year,  as  determined  under  Brazilian  tax
principles.  Dividends  paid  from  profits  generated  before  January  1,  1996  may  be  subject  to  Brazilian
withholding income tax at varying rates depending on the year the profits were generated. Dividends
paid  from  sources  other  than  profits  as  determined  under  Brazilian  tax  principles  may  be  subject  to
withholding tax.

Interest on shareholders’ equity

Amounts distributed as interest on shareholders’ equity are generally subject to withholding income tax
at the rate of 15%, except where:

i. the beneficiary is exempt from tax in Brazil, in which case the distribution will not be

subject to withholding income tax;

ii. the beneficiary is located in a jurisdiction that does not impose income tax or where the
maximum income tax rate is lower than 17% (a ‘‘Low Tax Jurisdiction’’) or where internal

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legislation imposes restrictions on the disclosure of the shareholding structure or the
ownership of the investment, in which case the applicable withholding income tax rate
is 25%; or

iii. the effective beneficiary is resident in Japan, in which case the applicable withholding

income tax rate is 12.5%.

Interest  on  shareholders’  equity  is  calculated  as  interest  rate  on  the  sum  of  the  following  accounts:
(i) share capital, (ii) capital reserves, (ii) profits reserves, (iv) treasury stocks and (v) accumulated losses. The
interest  rate  applied  may  not  exceed  the  TJLP,  the  benchmark  Brazilian  long-term  interest  rate.  In
addition, the amount of distributions classified as interest on shareholders’ equity may not be more than
the greater of (1) 50% of net income (after the deduction of social contribution on net profits but before
taking into account such payment of interest and the provision for corporate income tax) for the period in
respect of which the payment is made and (2) 50% of the sum of retained earnings and profit reserves.

Payments of interest on shareholders’ equity are deductible for the purposes of corporate income tax and
social  contribution  on  net  profit,  to  the  extent  of  the  limits  described  above.  The  tax  benefit  to  the
Company in the case of a distribution by way of interest on shareholders’ equity is a reduction in the
Company’s corporate tax charge by an amount equivalent to 34% of such distribution.

Taxation of capital gains

Taxation of Non-Brazilian Holders on capital gains depends on the status of the holder as either:

(cid:127)

a holder that is not resident or domiciled in a Low Tax Jurisdiction, or in a jurisdiction where
internal legislation imposes restrictions on the disclosure of shareholding structure or the
ownership of the investment, and that has registered its investment in Brazil in accordance
with Resolution No. 4,373/2014 (a 4,373 Holder), or (ii) a holder of ADSs; or

(cid:127)

any other Non-Brazilian Holder.

Investors identified in items (i) or (ii) are subject to favorable tax treatment, as described below.

Capital  gains  realized  by  a  Non-Brazilian  Holder  from  the  disposition  of  ‘‘assets  located  in  Brazil’’  are
subject to taxation in Brazil. Common shares qualify as assets located in Brazil, and the disposition of such
assets by a Non-Brazilian Holder may be subject to income tax on the gains assessed, in accordance with
the rules described below, regardless of whether the transaction is carried out with another non-Brazilian
resident or with a Brazilian resident.

There  is  some  uncertainty  as  to  whether  ADSs  qualify  as  ‘‘assets  located  in  Brazil’’  for  this  purpose.
Arguably,  the  ADSs  do  not  constitute  assets  located  in  Brazil  and  therefore  the  gains  realized  by  a
Non-Brazilian Holder on the disposition of ADSs to another non-Brazilian resident should not be subject
to income tax in Brazil. However, it is not certain that the Brazilian courts will uphold this interpretation of
the  definition  of  ‘‘assets  located  in  Brazil’’  in  connection  with  the  taxation  of  gains  realized  by  a
Non-Brazilian  Holder  on  the  disposition  of  ADSs.  Consequently,  gains  on  a  disposition  of  ADSs  by  a
Non-Brazilian Holder (whether in a transaction carried out with another Non-Brazilian Holder or a person
domiciled in Brazil) may be subject to income tax in Brazil in accordance with the rules applicable to a
disposition of shares.

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Although there are arguments to the contrary, the deposit of common shares in exchange for ADSs may
be subject to Brazilian income tax if the acquisition cost of the shares being deposited is lower than the
average price, determined as either:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

the average price per common share on the Brazilian stock exchange in which the greatest
number of such shares were sold on the day of deposit; or

if  no  common  shares  were  sold  on  that  day,  the  average  price  on  the  Brazilian  stock
exchange  in  which  the  greatest  number  of  common  shares  were  sold  in  the  15  trading
sessions immediately preceding such deposit.

The positive difference between the average price of the common shares calculated as described above
and their acquisition cost will be considered to be a capital gain subject to income tax in Brazil. In some
circumstances,  there  are  grounds  to  conclude  that  such  taxation  is  not  applicable  with  respect  to  any
4,373 Holder, provided such holder is not located in a Low Tax Jurisdiction.

The withdrawal of common shares by holders in exchange for ADSs is not subject to Brazilian income tax,
subject to compliance with applicable regulations regarding the registration of the investment with the
Central Bank of Brazil.

For the purpose of Brazilian taxation, the income tax rules on gains related to disposition of common
shares vary depending on:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

the domicile of the Non-Brazilian Holder;

the  method  by  which  such  Non-Brazilian  Holder  has  registered  his  investment  with  the
Central Bank of Brazil; and

how the disposition is carried out, as described below.

The gain realized as a result of a transaction on a Brazilian stock exchange is the difference between:
(i) the amount in Brazilian currency realized on the sale or disposition and (ii) the acquisition cost, without
any adjustment for inflation, of the securities that are the subject of the transaction.

Through  December  31,  2017,  any  gain  realized  by  a  Non-Brazilian  Holder  on  a  sale  or  disposition  of
common shares carried out on the Brazilian stock exchange was:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

exempt from income tax where the Non-Brazilian Holder (i) is a 4,373 Holder; and (ii) is not
located in a Low Tax Jurisdiction;

subject to income tax at a rate of 15% where the Non-Brazilian Holder either (A) (i) is not a
4,373  Holder  and  (ii)  is  not  resident  or  domiciled  in  a  Low  Tax  Jurisdiction  or  (B)  (i)  is  a
4,373 Holder and (ii) is resident or domiciled in a Low Tax Jurisdiction; or

subject  to  income  tax  at  a  rate  of  25%  where  the  Non-Brazilian  Holder  (i)  is  not  a  4,373
Holder and (ii) is resident or domiciled in a Low Tax Jurisdiction.

The  sale  or  disposition  of  common  shares  carried  out  on  the  Brazilian  stock  exchange  is  subject  to
withholding tax at the rate of 0.005% on the sale value. This withholding tax can be offset against the

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eventual income tax due on the capital gain. A 4,373 Holder that is not resident or domiciled in a Low Tax
Jurisdiction is not subject to this withholding tax.

Beginning on January 1, 2017, the taxation regime for capital gains in Brazil was significantly amended.
Under the new regime, capital gains realized by non-Brazilian residents and individuals resident in Brazil
are subject to progressive taxation, and the rates range from 15% to 22.5% as described below:

Taxation

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

15% on the portion of gains up to R$5 million;

17.5% on the portion of gains above R$5 million and below R$10 million;

20% on the portion of gains above R$10 million and below R$30 million; and

22.5% on the portion of gains exceeding R$30 million.

We believe that this new regime of capital gains taxation replaces previous instances of taxation at the
rate of 15%, but does not change the rate of 25% applicable to residents in a Low Tax Jurisdictions. You
should consult your own tax advisors concerning the implications of these rules in light of your particular
circumstances.

With respect to transactions arranged by a broker that are conducted on the Brazilian non-organized
over-the-counter market, a withholding income tax at a rate of 0.005% on the sale value is levied on the
transaction and can be offset against the eventual income tax due on the capital gain.

In the case of a redemption of common shares or ADSs or a capital reduction by a Brazilian corporation,
the positive difference between the amount received by any Non-Brazilian Holder and the acquisition
cost of the common shares or ADSs being redeemed is treated as capital gain and is therefore generally
subject to income tax at the progressive rate from 15% to 22.5%, while the 25% rate applies to residents
in a Low Tax Jurisdiction.

Any exercise of pre-emptive rights relating to our common shares will not be subject to Brazilian taxation.
Any gain realized by a Non-Brazilian Holder on the disposition of pre-emptive rights relating to common
shares in Brazil will be subject to Brazilian income taxation in accordance with the same rules applicable to
the sale or disposition of common shares.

Tax on foreign exchange and financial transactions

Foreign exchange transactions

Brazilian  law  imposes  a  tax  on  foreign  exchange  transactions,  or  an  IOF/Exchange  Tax,  due  on  the
conversion of reais into foreign currency and on the conversion of foreign currency into reais. Currently,
for most foreign currency exchange transactions, the rate of IOF/Exchange Tax is 0.38%.

The  outflow  of  resources  from  Brazil  related  to  investments  held  by  a  Non-Brazilian  Holder  in  the
Brazilian financial and capital markets is currently subject to IOF/Exchange Tax at a zero percent rate. In
any case, the Brazilian government may increase such rates at any time, up to 25%, with no retroactive
effect.

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Transactions involving securities

Brazilian law imposes a tax on transactions involving securities, or an IOF/Securities Tax, including those
carried  out  on  the  Brazilian  stock  exchange.  The  rate  of  IOF/Securities  Tax  applicable  to  transactions
involving publicly traded securities in Brazil is currently zero. The rate of IOF/Securities Tax applicable to a
transfer of shares traded on the Brazilian stock exchange to back the issuance of depositary receipts has
also been zero since December 24, 2013. However, the Brazilian Government may increase such rates at
any time up to 1.5% of the transaction amount per day, but the tax cannot be applied retroactively.

Other Brazilian taxes

There  are  no  Brazilian  inheritance,  gift  or  succession  taxes  applicable  to  the  ownership,  transfer  or
disposition of common shares or ADSs by a Non-Brazilian Holder, except for gift and inheritance taxes
which  are  levied  by  some  states  of  Brazil  on  gifts  made  or  inheritances  bestowed  by  a  Non-Brazilian
Holder to individuals or entities resident or domiciled within such states in Brazil. There are no Brazilian
stamp, issue, registration, or similar taxes or duties payable by holders of common shares or ADS.

U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS

This  summary  does  not  purport  to  be  a  comprehensive  description  of  all  the  U.S.  federal  income  tax
consequences  of  the  acquisition,  holding  or  disposition  of  the  common  shares  or  ADSs.  This  summary
applies to U.S. holders, as defined below, who hold their common shares or ADSs as capital assets and does
not apply to special classes of holders, such as:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

certain financial institutions,

insurance companies,

dealers in securities or foreign currencies,

tax-exempt organizations,

securities traders who elect to account for their investment in common shares or ADSs on a
mark-to-market basis,

persons  holding  common  shares  or  ADSs  as  part  of  hedge,  straddle,  conversion  or  other
integrated financial transactions for tax purposes,

holders whose functional currency for U.S. federal income tax purposes is not the U.S. dollar,

partnerships or other holders treated as ‘‘pass-through entities’’ for U.S. federal income tax
purposes, or

persons owning, actually or constructively through attribution rules, 10% or more of our
voting shares or the total value of all classes of shares.

This  discussion  is  based  on  the  Internal  Revenue  Code  of  1986,  as  amended  to  the  date  hereof,
administrative  pronouncements,  judicial  decisions  and  final,  temporary  and  proposed  Treasury
Regulations, all as in effect on the date hereof. These authorities are subject to differing interpretations
and  may  be  changed,  perhaps  retroactively,  so  as  to  result  in  U.S.  federal  income  tax  consequences

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different from those discussed below. There can be no assurance that the U.S. Internal Revenue Service
(the ‘‘IRS’’) will not challenge one or more of the tax consequences discussed herein or that a court will not
sustain such a challenge in the event of litigation. This summary does not address the Medicare tax on net
investment income, the alternative minimum tax, or any aspect of state, local or non-U.S. tax law.

YOU SHOULD CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISORS WITH REGARD TO THE APPLICATION OF THE U.S. FEDERAL
INCOME TAX LAWS TO YOUR PARTICULAR SITUATIONS AS WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES ARISING
UNDER THE LAWS OF ANY STATE, LOCAL OR NON-U.S. TAXING JURISDICTION.

This discussion is also based, in part, on representations of the depositary and the assumption that each
obligation in the deposit agreement and any related agreement will be performed in accordance with its
terms.

For purposes of this discussion, you are a ‘‘U.S. holder’’ if you are a beneficial owner of common shares or
ADSs that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

a citizen or resident alien individual of the United States,

a  corporation  created  or  organized  in  or  under  the  laws  of  the  United  States  or  of  any
political subdivision thereof, or

otherwise  subject  to  U.S.  federal  income  taxation  on  a  net  income  basis  with  respect  to
common shares or ADSs.

The term U.S. holder also includes certain former citizens of the United States.

In general, if you are the beneficial owner of American depositary receipts evidencing ADSs, you will be
treated as the beneficial owner of the common shares represented by those ADSs for U.S. federal income
tax purposes. Deposits and withdrawals of common shares by you in exchange for ADSs will not result in
the realization of gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Your tax basis in such common shares
will be the same as your tax basis in such ADSs, and the holding period in such common shares will include
the holding period in such ADSs.

Taxation of dividends

The gross amount of a distribution paid on ADSs or common shares, including distributions paid in the
form of payments of interest on capital for Brazilian tax purposes, out of our current or accumulated
earnings and profits (as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes) will be taxable to you as foreign
source dividend income and generally will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction allowed to
corporate  shareholders  under  U.S.  federal  income  tax  law.  The  amount  of  any  such  distribution  will
include the amount of Brazilian withholding taxes, if any, withheld on the amount distributed. To the
extent that a distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits, such distribution will
be treated as a nontaxable return of capital to the extent of your basis in the ADSs or common shares, as
the case may be, with respect to which such distribution is made, and thereafter as a capital gain.

You will be required to include dividends paid in reais in income in an amount equal to their U.S. dollar
value calculated by reference to an exchange rate in effect on the date such distribution is received by the
depositary, in the case of ADSs, or by you, in the case of common shares. If the depositary or you do not
convert such reais into U.S. dollars on the date they are received, it is possible that you will recognize
foreign currency loss or gain, which would be ordinary loss or gain, when the reais are converted into U.S.

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dollars. If you hold ADSs, you will be considered to receive a dividend when the dividend is received by the
depositary.

Subject to certain exceptions for short-term and hedged positions, the U.S. dollar amount of dividends
received  by  certain  non-corporate  taxpayers,  including  individuals,  will  be  subject  to  taxation  at  the
preferential  rates  applicable  to  long-term  capital  gains  if  the  dividends  are  ‘‘qualified  dividends.’’
Dividends paid on the ADSs will be treated as qualified dividends if (i) the ADSs are readily tradable on an
established securities market in the United States and (ii) the Company was not, in the year prior to the
year in which the dividend was paid, and is not, in the year in which the dividend is paid, a passive foreign
investment company (‘‘PFIC’’). The ADSs are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and will qualify as
readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States so long as they are so listed.
Based on Vale’s audited financial statements and relevant market and shareholder data, Vale believes that
it was not treated as a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes with respect to its 2017 taxable year. In
addition, based on Vale’s audited financial statements and its current expectations regarding the value
and nature of its assets, the sources and nature of its income, and relevant market and shareholder data,
Vale does not anticipate becoming a PFIC for its 2018 taxable year.

Based on existing guidance, it is not entirely clear whether dividends received with respect to common
shares will be treated as qualified dividends (and therefore whether such dividends will qualify for the
preferential rates of taxation applicable to long-term capital gains), because the common shares are not
themselves  listed  on  a  U.S.  exchange.  In  addition,  the  U.S.  Treasury  has  announced  its  intention  to
promulgate  rules  pursuant  to  which  holders  of  ADSs  or  common  shares  and  intermediaries  through
whom such securities are held will be permitted to rely on certifications from issuers to establish that
dividends  are  treated  as  qualified  dividends.  Because  such  procedures  have  not  yet  been  issued,  it  is
unclear whether we will be able to comply with them. You should consult your own tax advisors regarding
the availability of the reduced dividend tax rate in light of your own particular circumstances.

Subject to generally applicable limitations and restrictions, you will be entitled to a credit against your
U.S.  federal  income  tax  liability,  or  a  deduction  in  computing  your  U.S.  federal  taxable  income,  for
Brazilian  income  taxes  withheld  by  us.  You  must  satisfy  minimum  holding  period  requirements  to  be
eligible to claim a foreign tax credit for Brazilian taxes withheld on dividends. The limitation on foreign
taxes  eligible  for  credit  is  calculated  separately  for  specific  categories  of  income.  For  this  purpose
dividends paid by us on our shares will generally constitute ‘‘passive income.’’ Foreign tax credits may not
be  allowed  for  withholding  taxes  imposed  in  respect  of  certain  short-term  or  hedged  positions  in
securities or in respect of arrangements in which a U.S. holder’s expected economic profit is insubstantial.
You  should  consult  your  own  tax  advisors  concerning  the  implications  of  these  rules  in  light  of  your
particular circumstances.

Taxation of capital gains

Upon a sale or exchange of common shares or ADSs, you will recognize a capital gain or loss for U.S.
federal income tax purposes equal to the difference, if any, between the amount realized on the sale or
exchange and your adjusted tax basis in the common shares or ADSs. This gain or loss will be long-term
capital gain or loss if your holding period in the common shares or ADSs exceeds one year. The net amount
of  long-term  capital  gain  recognized  by  individual  U.S.  holders  generally  is  subject  to  taxation  at
preferential rates. Your ability to use capital losses to offset income is subject to limitations.

Any gain or loss will be U.S. source gain or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. Consequently, if a
Brazilian withholding tax is imposed on the sale or disposition of ADSs or common shares, and you do not
receive significant foreign source income from other sources, you may not be able to derive effective U.S.
foreign tax credit benefits in respect of such Brazilian withholding tax. You should consult your own tax

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advisor regarding the application of the foreign tax credit rules to your investment in, and disposition of,
ADSs or common shares.

If a Brazilian tax is withheld on the sale or disposition of shares, the amount realized by a U.S. holder will
include the gross amount of the proceeds of such sale or disposition before deduction of the Brazilian tax.
See Brazilian tax considerations above.

Information reporting and backup withholding

Information returns may be filed with the IRS in connection with distributions on the common shares or
ADSs and the proceeds from their sale or other disposition. You may be subject to United States backup
withholding tax on these payments if you fail to provide your taxpayer identification number or comply
with certain certification procedures or otherwise establish an exemption from backup withholding. If
you are required to make such a certification or to establish such an exemption, you generally must do so
on IRS Form W-9.

Backup withholding is not an additional tax. The amount of any backup withholding from a payment to
you will be allowed as a credit against your U.S. federal income tax liability and may entitle you to a
refund, provided that the required information is timely furnished to the IRS.

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EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND
PROCEDURES

Our  management,  with  the  participation  of  our  chief  executive  officer  and  chief  financial  officer,  has
evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2017. There are
inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including
the  possibility  of  human  error  and  the  circumvention  or  overriding  of  the  controls  and  procedures.
Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of
achieving their control objectives.

Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and
procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by
us  in  the  reports  filed  or  submitted  under  the  Exchange  Act  is  recorded,  processed,  summarized  and
reported, within the time periods specified in the applicable rules and forms, and that it is accumulated
and communicated to our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer,
as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

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MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER
FINANCIAL REPORTING

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial
reporting.  Our  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  is  a  process  designed  to  provide  reasonable
assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for
external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our internal control over
financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of records
that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the
Company;  (ii)  provide  reasonable  assurance  that  transactions  are  recorded  to  permit  preparation  of
financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and
expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management
and  directors  of  the  Company;  and  (iii)  provide  reasonable  assurance  regarding  prevention  or  timely
detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect
on the financial statements. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting
may  not  prevent  or  detect  misstatements.  Also,  projections  of  any  evaluation  of  the  effectiveness  to
future  periods  are  subject  to  the  risk  that  controls  may  become  inadequate  and  that  the  degree  of
compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Our management has assessed the effectiveness of Vale’s internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2017 based on the criteria established in ‘‘Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013)’’
issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring  Organizations  of  the  Treadway  Commission.  Based  on  such
assessment and criteria, our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting
was effective as of December 31, 2017. The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as
of December 31, 2017 has been audited by KPMG Auditores Independentes, an independent registered
public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein.

Our management identified no change in our internal control over financial reporting during our fiscal
year ended December 31, 2017 that has materially affected or is reasonably likely to materially affect our
internal control over financial reporting.

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Under NYSE rules, foreign private issuers are subject to more limited corporate governance requirements
than U.S. domestic issuers. As a foreign private issuer, we must comply with four principal NYSE corporate
governance  rules:  (1)  we  must  satisfy  the  requirements  of  Exchange  Act  Rule  10A-3  relating  to  audit
committees; (2) our chief executive officer must promptly notify the NYSE in writing after any executive
officer  becomes  aware  of  any  non-compliance  with  the  applicable  NYSE  corporate  governance  rules;
(3) we must provide the NYSE with annual and interim written affirmations as required under the NYSE
corporate governance rules; and (4) we must provide a brief description of any significant differences
between our corporate governance practices and those followed by U.S. companies under NYSE listing
standards. The table below briefly describes the significant differences between our practices and the
practices of U.S. domestic issuers under NYSE corporate governance rules.

Section

NYSE corporate governance rule for
U.S. domestic issuers

303A.01 A listed company must have a majority of independent

directors.

Our approach

We do not have a majority of independent directors. At
least 20% of our board of directors is composed of
independent directors, as required under Novo Mercado
listing rules and our bylaws.

303A.03 The non-management directors of a listed company must

We do not have any management directors.

meet at regularly scheduled executive sessions without
management.

303A.04 A listed company must have a nominating/corporate

governance committee composed entirely of independent
directors, with a written charter that covers certain
minimum specified duties.

We do not have a nominating/corporate governance
committee. However, we do have a Personnel Committee
and a Compliance and Risk Committee, which are advisory
committees to the Board of Directors (which may include
members who are not directors) with written charters that
cover similar specified duties.

According to its charter, the Personnel Committee is
responsible, among other matters, for:

● supporting the Board of Directors in the process of

selecting and appointing the Chief Executive Officer,
and evaluating the Chief Executive Officer’s
appointment of other executives;

● evaluating and recommending adjustments to

corporate governance best practices concerning the
structure, size and composition of the Board of
Directors and the Advisory Committees, as well as the
balance of experiences, knowledge and diversity of the
profiles of their members;

● identifying and recommending potential candidates to
be directors and members of the Advisory Committees;
and

● supporting the Chairman of the Board of Directors in
organizing the process for performance evaluation of
the Board of Directors and Advisory Committees.

According to its charter, the Compliance and Risk
Committee is responsible, among other matters, for:

● ensuring the adoption and improvement of good
practices of compliance and integrity, including
evaluating events of potential conflicts of interest;

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Section

NYSE corporate governance rule for
U.S. domestic issuers

Corporate Governance

Our approach

● monitoring the scope of activities and effectiveness of

the departments in charge of our corporate
governance, compliance, corporate integrity, risk
management and controls and proposing
improvements;

● evaluating proposals for modifying the corporate

governance documents, such as the By-Laws, the Code
of Ethics and Conduct and written charters of our
Advisory Committees and Board of Directors, in
addition to other policies and documents which are
not the responsibility of other committees;

● ensuring the effectiveness of mechanisms to handle
conflicts of interests in our transactions, as well as
opining on related party transactions submitted for
resolution of the Board of Directors, pursuant to the
Policy on Transactions with Related Parties; and

● promoting, monitoring and ensuring the development
and efficacy of the our governance model, assuring
that all initiatives are in line with the best practices
and are in synergy;

These committees’ charters allow for the inclusion of one
independent member. For this purpose, an independent
member is a person who:

● Has no current link to Vale, except for membership on
an Advisory Committee or a non-material shareholding
in our share capital or investment in our bonds, and is
not financially dependent on compensation from us;

● Has not been an employee of the Company (or of its
subsidiaries) or of a direct or indirect controlling
shareholder, or a representative of any direct or
indirect controlling shareholder for, at least, three
years;

● Does not provide, purchase or offer (trade), directly or
indirectly, services and/or products to us on a scale that
is material to that person or to us;

● Is not linked to a controlling shareholder, member of
the controlling group or of another group with
material shareholding, the spouse or relative up to the
second degree of the foregoing, or connected to
entities related to a controlling shareholder;

● Is not a spouse or relative up to the second degree of

any officer or manager of Vale;

● Has not been a partner, in the past three years, of an
auditing firm that audits or has audited Vale in this
same period; and

● Is not a member of a non-profit entity that receives

significant financial funds from us or from our related
parties.

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Section

NYSE corporate governance rule for
U.S. domestic issuers

Our approach

303A.05 A listed company must have a compensation committee

We do not have a compensation committee.

Corporate Governance

composed entirely of independent directors, with a
written charter that covers certain minimum specified
duties.

303A.06 A listed company must have an audit committee with a
303A.07 minimum of three independent directors who satisfy the

independence requirements of Rule 10A-3 under the
Exchange Act, with a written charter that covers certain
minimum specified duties.

However, we have a Personnel Committee, which is an
advisory committee to the Board of Directors (which may
include an independent member who is not a director).
This committee is responsible for:

● evaluating our general human resources policies as
submitted by the Executive Board to the Board of
Directors;

● evaluating and adjusting the compensation model of

members of the Executive Board;

● aiding the Board of Directors in setting and monitoring
goals for the performance evaluation of the Executive
Board and other leaders who report directly to the
Chief Executive Officer, and of those in charge of Vale’s
Governance Office, Internal Auditing and Ombudsman.

In lieu of appointing an audit committee composed of
independent members of the Board of Directors, we have
established a permanent conselho fiscal, or fiscal council,
in accordance with the applicable provisions of Brazilian
corporate law, and provided the fiscal council with
additional powers to permit it to meet the requirements
of Exchange Act Rule 10A-3(c)(3).

Under our bylaws, the Fiscal Council shall have between
three and five members. Under Brazilian corporate law,
which provides standards for the independence of the
Fiscal Council from us and our management, none of the
members of the Fiscal Council may be a member of the
Board of Directors or an executive officer. Management
does not elect any Fiscal Council member. Our Board of
Directors has determined that one of the members of our
Fiscal Council meets the New York Stock Exchange
independence requirements that would apply to audit
committee members in the absence of our reliance on
Exchange Act Rule 10A-3(c)(3).

The responsibilities of the Fiscal Council are set forth in its
charter. Under our bylaws, the charter must give the Fiscal
Council responsibility for the matters required under
Brazilian corporate law, as well as responsibility for:

● establishing procedures for the receipt, retention and

treatment of complaints related to accounting, controls
and audit issues, as well as procedures for the
confidential, anonymous submission of concerns
regarding such matters;

● recommending and assisting the Board of Directors in
the appointment, establishment of compensation and
dismissal of independent auditors;

● pre-approving services to be rendered by the

independent auditors;

● overseeing the work performed by the independent

auditors, with powers to recommend withholding the
payment of compensation to the independent auditors;
and

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Section

NYSE corporate governance rule for
U.S. domestic issuers

Corporate Governance

Our approach

● mediating disagreements between management and

the independent auditors regarding financial
reporting.

303A.08 Shareholders must be given the opportunity to vote on all
equity-compensation plans and material revisions thereto,
with limited exemptions set forth in the NYSE rules.

Under Brazilian corporate law, shareholder pre-approval is
required for the adoption of any equity compensation
plans.

We have not published formal corporate governance
guidelines.

We have adopted a formal code of ethics and conduct,
which applies to our directors, officers and employees. We
report each year in our annual report on Form 20-F any
waivers of the code of ethics and conduct granted for
directors or executive officers. Our code of ethics and
conduct has a scope that is similar, but not identical, to
that required for a U.S. domestic company under the
NYSE rules.

We are subject to (b) and (c) of these requirements, but
not (a).

303A.09 A listed company must adopt and disclose corporate

governance guidelines that cover certain minimum
specified subjects.

303A.10 A listed company must adopt and disclose a code of

business conduct and ethics for directors, officers and
employees, and promptly disclose any waivers of the code
for directors or executive officers.

303A.12 a) Each listed company CEO must certify to the NYSE each

year that he or she is not aware of any violation by the
company of NYSE corporate governance listing standards.

b) Each listed company CEO must promptly notify the
NYSE in writing after any executive officer of the listed
company becomes aware of any non-compliance with any
applicable provisions of this Section 303A.

c) Each listed company must submit an executed Written
Affirmation annually to the NYSE. In addition, each listed
company must submit an interim Written Affirmation as
and when required by the interim Written Affirmation
form specified by the NYSE.

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CODE OF ETHICS AND CONDUCT

We have a code of ethics and conduct that applies to our employees and to the members of our Board of
Directors and our Board of Executive Officers, including the chief executive officer, the chief financial
officer  and  the  principal  accounting  officer.  We  have  posted  this  code  of  ethics  and  conduct  on  our
website, at: http://www.vale.com (under English Version/Investors/The Company/Corporate Governance/
Policies). Copies of our code of ethics and conduct may be obtained without charge by writing to us at the
address set forth on the front cover of this Form 20-F. We have not granted any implicit or explicit waivers
from any provision of our code of ethics and conduct since its adoption.

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PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The  following  table  summarizes  the  fees  billed  to  us  by  our  independent  auditors  KPMG  Auditores
Independentes for professional services in 2017 and 2016:

Audit fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Audit-related fees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year ended December 31,

2016

2017

(US$ thousand)
6,084
63
6

Total fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6,143

6,159
90
18

6,267

‘‘Audit fees’’ are the aggregate fees billed by KPMG Auditores Independentes for the audit of our annual
financial statements, the audit of the statutory financial statements of our subsidiaries, and reviews of
interim financial statements and attestation services that are provided in connection with statutory and
regulatory filings or engagements. They also include fees for services that only the independent auditor
reasonably  can  provide,  including  the  provision  of  comfort  letters  and  consents  in  connection  with
statutory and regulatory filings and the review of documents filed with the SEC and other capital markets
or local financial reporting regulatory bodies. ‘‘Audit-related fees’’ are fees charged by KPMG Auditores
Independentes for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the
audit or review of our financial statements and are not reported under ‘‘Audit fees.’’

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INFORMATION FILED WITH SECURITIES REGULATORS

We  are  subject  to  various  information  and  disclosure  requirements  in  those  countries  in  which  our
securities are traded, and we file financial statements and other periodic reports with the CVM, B3, the
SEC and the French securities regulator Autorit ´e des March ´es Financiers.

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Brazil. Vale’s Common Shares are listed on B3 in S ˜ao Paulo, Brazil. As a result, we are subject
to the information and disclosure requirements of Brazilian Corporate Law, as amended. We
are  also  subject  to  the  periodic  disclosure  requirements  of  CVM  rules  applicable  to  listed
companies  and  to  B3’s  ‘‘Novo  Mercado’’  Corporate  Governance  Requirements.  Our  CVM
filings  are  available  from  the  CVM  at  http://www.cvm.gov.br  or  from  B3  at
http://www.b3.com.br. In addition, as with all of our security filings, they may be accessed at
our website, http://www.vale.com.

United States. As a result of our ADSs being listed on the New York Stock Exchange, we are
subject to the information requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended,
and  accordingly  file  reports  and  other  information  with  the  SEC.  Reports  and  other
information filed by us with the SEC may be inspected and copied at the public reference
facilities maintained by the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C., 20549. You can obtain
further information about the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at
1-800-SEC-0330. You may also inspect Vale’s reports and other information at the offices of
the New York Stock Exchange, 11 Wall Street, New York, New York 10005, on which Vale’s
ADSs  are  listed.  Our  SEC  filings  are  also  available  to  the  public  from  the  SEC  at
http://www.sec.gov. For further information on obtaining copies of Vale’s public filings at the
New York Stock Exchange, you should call (212) 656-5060.

France. As a result of the admission of the ADSs to listing and trading on NYSE Euronext
Paris,  we  must  comply  with  certain  French  periodic  and  ongoing  disclosure  rules  (for
example, annual report with audited financial statements and interim financial statements).
In  general,  the  Company  is  deemed  to  comply  with  the  French  periodic  and  ongoing
disclosure rules through its compliance with U.S. disclosures.

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EXHIBITS

Exhibit Number

1
4.1

8
10.1

10.24

12.1

12.2

13.1

15.1
101

Bylaws of Vale S.A., as amended on December 21, 2017
Framework Agreement, dated March 2, 2016, by and among Vale S.A., BHP Billiton
Brasil Ltda, Samarco Minera¸c ˜ao S.A., the Federal Government of Brazil, the states of
Espirito Santo and Minas Gerais and certain other public authorities in Brazil,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.12 to BHP Billiton Ltd.’s annual report on
Form 20-F dated September 21, 2016 (File Nos. 001-09526 and 001-31714, Accession
No. 0001193125-16-715037)
List of subsidiaries
Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 19, 2016, by and among Vale S.A.,
Vale Fertilizer Netherlands B.V. and The Mosaic Company, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 2.1 to Mosaic’s current report on Form 8-K dated December 19, 2016
(File No. 001-32327, Accession No. 0001193125-16-796869)
Shareholders’ Agreement, dated August 14, 2017, among Litel Participa¸c ˜oes S.A., Litela
Participa¸c ˜oes S.A., Bradespar S.A., Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and BNDES Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. —
BNDESPAR incorporated by reference to the current report on Form 6-K furnished to
the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 15, 2017 (File No. 001-15030,
Accession No. 0001104659-17-051910)
Certification of Chief Executive Officer of Vale pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Certification of Chief Financial Officer of Vale pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Vale, pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Consent of KPMG Auditores Independentes
Interactive Data File

The  amount  of  long-term  debt  securities  of  Vale  or  its  subsidiaries  authorized  under  any  individual
outstanding agreement does not exceed 10% of Vale’s total assets on a consolidated basis. Vale hereby
agrees to furnish the SEC, upon its request, a copy of any instruments defining the rights of holders of its
long-term debt or of its subsidiaries for which consolidated or unconsolidated financial statements are
required to be filed.

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GLOSSARY

Alumina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Aluminum oxide. It is the main component of bauxite, and extracted from bauxite ore in
a chemical refining process. It is the principal raw material in the electro-chemical
process from which aluminum is produced.

Aluminum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A white metal that is obtained in the electro-chemical process of reducing aluminum
oxide.

Austenitic stainless steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Steel that contains a significant amount of chromium and sufficient nickel to stabilize
the austenite microstructure, giving to the steel good formability and ductility and
improving its high temperature resistance. They are used in a wide variety of
applications, ranging from consumer products to industrial process equipment, as well as
for power generation and transportation equipment, kitchen appliances and many other
applications where strength, corrosion and high temperature resistance are required.

Bauxite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A rock composed primarily of hydrated aluminum oxides. It is the principal ore of
alumina, the raw material from which aluminum is made.

Beneficiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A variety of processes whereby extracted ore from mining is reduced to particles that can
be separated into ore-mineral and waste, the former suitable for further processing or
direct use.

CFR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cost and freight. Indicates that all costs related to the transportation of goods up to a
named port of destination will be paid by the seller of the goods.

Coal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Coal is a black or brownish-black solid combustible substance formed by the
decomposition of vegetable matter without access to air. The rank of coal, which
includes anthracite, bituminous coal (both are called hard coal), sub-bituminous coal, and
lignite, is based on fixed carbon, volatile matter, and heating value.

Cobalt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cobalt is a hard, lustrous, silver-gray metal found in ores, and used in the preparation of
magnetic, wear-resistant, and high-strength alloys (particularly for jet engines and
turbines). Its compounds are also used in the production of inks, paints, catalysts and
battery materials.

Coke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Coal that has been processed in a coke oven, for use as a reduction agent in blast
furnaces and in foundries for the purposes of transforming iron ore into pig iron.

Coking coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hard coking coal is the highest value segment of the metallurgical coal market segments
(see metallurgical coal) because of its high strength factors to form a strong coke.

Concentration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Physical, chemical or biological process to increase the grade of the metal or mineral of
interest.

Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A reddish brown metallic element. Copper is highly conductive, both thermally and
electrically. It is highly malleable and ductile and is easily rolled into sheet and drawn
into wire.

Copper anode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Copper anode is a metallic product of the converting stage of smelting process that is
cast into blocks and generally contains 99% copper grade, which requires further
processing to produce refined copper cathodes.

Copper cathode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Copper plate with purity higher than or equal to 99.9% that is produced by an
electrolytic process.

Copper concentrate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Material produced by concentration of copper minerals contained in the copper ore. It is

the raw material used in smelters to produce copper metal.

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Glossary

CVM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Comiss ˜ao de Valores Mobili ´arios (Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission).

DWT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deadweight ton. The measurement unit of a vessel’s capacity for cargo, fuel oil, stores
and crew, measured in metric tons of 1,000 kg. A vessel’s total deadweight is the total
weight the vessel can carry when loaded to a particular load line.

Electrowon copper cathode . . . . . . . . . . . .

Refined copper cathode is a metallic product produced by an electrochemical process in
which copper is recovered from an electrolyte and plated onto an electrode. Electrowon
copper cathodes generally contain 99.99% copper grade.

Ferroalloys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Manganese ferroalloys are alloys of iron that contain one or more other chemical

elements. These alloys are used to add these other elements into molten metal, usually
in steelmaking. The principal ferroalloys are those of manganese, silicon and chromium.

FOB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Free on board. It indicates that the purchaser pays for shipping, insurance and all the
other costs associated with transportation of the goods to their destination.

Gold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A precious metal sometimes found free in nature, but usually found in conjunction with
silver, quartz, calcite, lead, tellurium, zinc or copper. It is the most malleable and ductile
metal, a good conductor of heat and electricity and unaffected by air and most reagents.

Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The proportion of metal or mineral present in ore or any other host material.

Hard metallurgical coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Coal used in the production of steel, comprising multiple segments, including hard
coking coal (see hard coking coal), semi-hard coking coal, semi-soft coking coal, all used
to produce coke to feed a blast furnace; and, PCI (pulverized coal injection) coal used for
direct injection fuel source into the blast furnace (see PCI).

Hematite Ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hematite is an iron oxide mineral, but also denotes the high-grade iron ore type within
the iron deposits.

Iron ore pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Agglomerated ultra-fine iron ore particles of a size and quality suitable for particular
iron making processes. Our iron ore pellets range in size from 8 mm to 18 mm.

Itabirite ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Itabirite is a banded iron formation and denotes the low-grade iron ore type within the
iron deposits.

Lump ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Iron ore or manganese ore with the coarsest particle size in the range of 6.35 mm to 50
mm in diameter, but varying slightly between different mines and ores.

Manganese ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A hard brittle metallic element found primarily in the minerals pyrolusite, hausmannite
and manganite. Manganese ore is essential to the production of virtually all steels and is
important in the production of cast iron.

Metallurgical coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Coal used in the production of steel, comprising multiple segments, including hard
coking coal (see hard coking coal), semi-hard coking coal, semi-soft coking coal, all used
to produce coke to feed a blast furnace; and, PCI (pulverized coal injection) coal used for
direct injection fuel source into the blast furnace (see PCI). A bituminous hard coal with
a quality that allows the production of coke. Normally used in coke ovens for
metallurgical purposes.

Mineral deposit(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A mineralized body that has been intersected by a sufficient number of closely spaced
drill holes and/or underground/surface samples to support sufficient tonnage and grade
of metal(s) or mineral(s) of interest to warrant further exploration-development work.

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Glossary

Mineral resource . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A concentration or occurrence of minerals of economic interest in such form and
quantity that could justify an eventual economic extraction. The location, quantity,
grade, geological characteristics and continuity of a mineral resource are known,
estimated or interpreted from specific geological evidence through drill holes, trenches
and/or outcrops. Mineral resources are sub-divided, in order of increasing geological
confidence, into Inferred, Indicated and Measured Resources.

Mt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Million metric tons

Mtpy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Million metric tons per year.

Nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A silvery white metal that takes on a high polish. It is hard, malleable, ductile, somewhat
ferromagnetic, and a fair conductor of heat and electricity. It belongs to the iron-cobalt
group of metals and is chiefly valuable for the alloys it forms, such as stainless steel and
other corrosion-resistant alloys.

Nickel laterite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deposits are formed by intensive weathering of olivine-rich ultramafic rocks such as
dunite, peridotite and komatite.

Nickel matte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

An intermediate smelter product that must be further refined to obtain pure metal.

Nickel pig iron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A low-grade nickel product, made from lateritic ores, suitable primarily for use in
stainless steel production. Nickel pig iron typically has a nickel grade of 1.5-6% produced
from blast furnaces. Nickel pig iron can also contain chrome, manganese, and impurities
such as phosphorus, sulfur and carbon. Low-grade ferro-nickel (FeNi) produced in China
through electric furnaces is often also referred to as nickel pig iron.

Nickel sulfide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Formed through magmatic processes where nickel combines with sulfur to form a sulfide
phase. Pentlandite is the most common nickel sulfide ore mineral mined and often
occurs with chalcopyrite, a common copper sulfide mineral.

Nitric acid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Nitric acid is manufactured from ammonia and is a key chemical in the manufacture of
fertilizers. The acid from the absorption towers typically contains 53-61% nitric acid by
mass. Uses for diluted nitric acid other than fertilizer production include metallurgy,
cleaning (in food industries) and nylon for the textile industry.

Ntk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net ton (the weight of the goods being transported excluding the weight of the wagon)
kilometer.

Open-pit mining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Method of extracting rock or minerals from the earth by their removal from an open pit.

Open-pit mines for extraction of ore are used when deposits of commercially useful
minerals or rock are found near the surface; that is, where the overburden (surface
material covering the valuable deposit) is relatively thin or the material of interest is
structurally unsuitable for underground mining.

Oxides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Compounds of oxygen with another element. For example, magnetite is an oxide
mineral formed by the chemical union of iron with oxygen.

Palladium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A silver-white metal that is ductile and malleable, used primarily in automobile-emissions
control devices, and electrical applications.

PCI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pulverized coal injection. Type of coal with specific properties ideal for direct injection
via the tuyeres of blast furnaces. This type of coal does not require any processing or
coke making, and can be directly injected into the blast furnaces, replacing lump cokes
to be charged from the top of the blast furnaces.

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Glossary

Pelletizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Iron ore pelletizing is a process of agglomeration of ultra-fines produced in iron ore
exploitation and concentration steps. The three basic stages of the process are: (i) ore
preparation (to get the correct fineness); (ii) mixing and balling (additive mixing and ball
formation); and (iii) firing (to get ceramic bonding and strength).

PGMs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Platinum group metals. Consist of platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, osmium and
iridium.

Phosphate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A phosphorous compound, which occurs in natural ores and is used as a raw material for
primary production of fertilizer nutrients, animal feeds and detergents.

Pig iron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Product of smelting iron ore usually with coke and limestone in a blast furnace.

Platinum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A dense, precious, grey-white transition metal that is ductile and malleable and occurs in
some nickel and copper ores. Platinum is resistant to corrosion and is used primarily in
jewelry, and automobile-emissions control devices.

Potash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A potassium chloride compound, chiefly KCl, used as simple fertilizer and in the
production of mixture fertilizer.

Precious metals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Metals valued for their color, malleability, and rarity, with a high economic value driven

not only by their practical industrial use, but also by their role as investments. The
widely-traded precious metals are gold, silver, platinum and palladium.

Primary nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Nickel produced directly from mineral ores.

Probable (indicated) reserves . . . . . . . . . .

Proven (measured) reserves . . . . . . . . . . . .

Reserves for which quantity and grade and/or quality are computed from information
similar to that used for proven (measured) reserves, but the sites for inspection, sampling
and measurement are farther apart or are otherwise less adequately spaced. The degree
of assurance, although lower than that for proven (measured) reserves, is high enough
to assume continuity between points of observation.

Reserves for which (a) quantity is computed from dimensions revealed in outcrops,
trenches, working or drill holes; grade and/or quality are computed from the results of
detailed sampling and (b) the sites for inspection, sampling and measurement are spaced
so closely and the geologic character is so well defined that size, shape, depth and
mineral content of reserves are well-established.

Real, reais or R$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The official currency of Brazil is the real (singular) (plural: reais).

Reserves (ore/mineral) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The part of a mineral deposit that could be economically and legally extracted or
produced at the time of the reserve determination.

ROM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Run-of-mine. Ore in its natural (unprocessed) state, as mined, without having been
crushed.

Secondary or scrap nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Stainless steel or other nickel-containing scrap.

Seaborne market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Comprises the total ore trade between countries using ocean bulk vessels.

Silver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A ductile and malleable metal used in photography, coins and medal fabrication, and in
industrial applications.

Sinter feed (also known as fines) . . . . . .

Iron ore fines with particles in the range of 0.15 mm to 6.35 mm in diameter. Suitable
for sintering.

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Glossary

Sintering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The agglomeration of sinter feed, binder and other materials, into a coherent mass by
heating without melting, to be used as metallic charge into a blast furnace.

Slabs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The most common type of semi-finished steel. Traditional slabs measure 10 inches thick
and 30-85 inches wide (and average 20 feet long), while the output of the recently
developed ‘‘thin slab’’ casters is two inches thick. Subsequent to casting, slabs are sent to
the hot-strip mill to be rolled into coiled sheet and plate products.

Stainless steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Alloy steel containing at least 10% chromium and with superior corrosion resistance. It
may also contain other elements such as nickel, manganese, niobium, titanium,
molybdenum, copper, in order to improve mechanical, thermal properties and service
life. It is primarily classified as austenitic (200 and 300 series), ferritic (400 series),
martensitic, duplex or precipitation hardening grades.

Thermal coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A type of coal that is suitable for energy generation in thermal power stations, cement
plants and other coal fired ovens/kilns in general industry.

Tpy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Metric tons per year.

Troy ounce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

One troy ounce equals 31.103 grams.

Underground mining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mineral exploitation in which extraction is carried out beneath the earth’s surface.

U.S. dollars or US$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The United States dollar.

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SIGNATURES

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has
duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

VALE S.A.
By:

/s/ FABIO SCHVARTSMAN

Name: Fabio Schvartsman

Title: Chief Executive Officer

By:

/s/ LUCIANO SIANI PIRES

Name: Luciano Siani Pires

Title: Chief Financial Officer

Date: April 12, 2018

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14NOV201111161635

Vale S.A. Financial Statements

Contents

Report of independent registered public accounting firm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Income Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Notes to the Financial Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Corporate information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Basis for preparation of the financial statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Information by business segment and by geographic area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Special events occurred during the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Costs and expenses by nature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Financial results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7. Deferred revenue—Gold stream transaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8.

9.

Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10. Accounts receivable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11.

12.

Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Recoverable taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

13. Other financial assets and liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14. Non-current assets and liabilities held for sale and discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15.

Investments in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16. Noncontrolling interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

17.

18.

19.

Intangibles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Impairment and onerous contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Page

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12APR201813380467

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

20.
21.
22.

23.

Loans, borrowings, cash and cash equivalents and financial investments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Liabilities related to associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial instruments classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fair value estimate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

24. Derivative financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

25.

Provisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

26. Asset retirement obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Litigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Employee benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Related parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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F-94

F-99

Commitments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F-101

Risk management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F-102

33. Additional information about derivatives financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F-105

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28SEP201709272065

KPMG Auditores Independentes
Rua do Passeio, 38 - Setor 2 - 17(cid:6) andar - Centro
20021-290 - Rio de Janeiro/RJ - Brasil
Caixa Postal 2888 - CEP 20001-970 - Rio de Janeiro/RJ - Brasil
Telefone +55 (21) 2207-9400, Fax +55 (21) 2207-9000
www.kpmg.com.br

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
Vale S.A.
Rio de Janeiro – RJ

Opinions on the Consolidated Financial Statements and Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We  have  audited  the  accompanying  consolidated  statements  of  financial  position  of  Vale  S.A.  and  subsidiaries
(‘‘Vale’’ or ‘‘the Company’’) as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the related consolidated statements of income,
comprehensive income (loss), changes in equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended
December  31,  2017,  and  the  related  notes  (collectively,  the  ‘‘consolidated  financial  statements’’).  We  also  have
audited  the  Company’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  as  of  December  31,  2017,  based  on  criteria
established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations
of the Treadway Commission.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash
flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with International
Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. Also in our opinion, the
Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31,
2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

KPMG Auditores Independentes, uma sociedade
simples brasileira e firma-membro da rede KPMG de
firmas-membro independentes e afiliadas  `a KPMG
International Cooperative (‘‘KPMG International’’),
uma entidade su´ı¸ca.

KPMG Auditores Independentes, a Brazilian entity and
a member firm of the KPMG network of independent
member firms affiliated with KPMG International
Cooperative (‘‘KPMG International’’), a Swiss entity.

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28SEP201709272065

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective
internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial
reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and an opinion on the
Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered
with  the  Public  Company  Accounting  Oversight  Board  (United  States)  (‘‘PCAOB’’)  and  are  required  to  be
independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable
rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and
perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of
material  misstatement,  whether  due  to  error  or  fraud,  and  whether  effective  internal  control  over  financial
reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material
misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures
that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts
and  disclosures  in  the  consolidated  financial  statements.  Our  audits  also  included  evaluating  the  accounting
principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the
consolidated  financial  statements.  Our  audit  of  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  included  obtaining  an
understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and
testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our
audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe
that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A  company’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  is  a  process  designed  to  provide  reasonable  assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance  with  generally  accepted  accounting  principles.  A  company’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting
includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail,
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made
only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable
assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s
assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because  of  its  inherent  limitations,  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  may  not  prevent  or  detect
misstatements.  Also,  projections  of  any  evaluation  of  effectiveness  to  future  periods  are  subject  to  the  risk  that
controls  may  become  inadequate  because  of  changes  in  conditions,  or  that  the  degree  of  compliance  with  the
policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ KPMG Auditores Independentes

KPMG Auditores Independentes

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2014.
Rio de Janeiro, RJ
February 27, 2018

F-4
F-4

12APR201813380467

14NOV201111161635

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

The management of Vale S.A (Vale) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal
control over financial reporting.

The Vale’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external
purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The company’s internal control
over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of
records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the
assets  of  the  company;  (ii)  provide  reasonable  assurance  that  transactions  are  recorded  to  permit
preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that
receipts  and  expenditures  of  the  company  are  being  made  only  in  accordance  with  authorizations  of
management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention
or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could
have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect
misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness to future periods are subject to the
risk  that  controls  may  become  inadequate  because  of  changes  in  conditions,  and  that  the  degree  of
compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Vale’s  management  has  assessed  the  effectiveness  of  the  company’s  internal  control  over  financial
reporting  as  of  December  31,  2017  based  on  the  criteria  established  in  Internal  Control—Integrated
Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission
(COSO). Based on such assessment and criteria, Vale’s management has concluded that the company’s
internal control over financial reporting are effective as of December 31, 2017.

The effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017 has
been audited by KPMG Auditores Independentes, an independent registered public accounting firm, as
stated in their report which appears herein.

February 27th, 2018.

/s/ Fabio Schvartsman

Fabio Schvartsman
Chief Executive Officer

/s/ Luciano Siani

Luciano Siani
Chief Financial Officer and Investors Relations

F-5
F-5

12APR201813380467

Consolidated Income Statement
In millions of United States dollars, except earnings per share data

14NOV201111161635

Notes

2017

2016

2015

Year ended December 31

Continuing operations
Net operating revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of goods sold and services rendered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating expenses
Selling and administrative expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and evaluation expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pre operating and operational stoppage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other operating expenses, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3(d)
5(a)

5(b)

5(c)

Impairment and other results on non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . .

15, 18 and 19

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Financial income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment and other results in associates and joint ventures .

6
6
15
15, 19 and 21

Income (loss) before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current tax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . .

Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to

Vale’s stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . .

Loss from discontinued operations attributable to Vale’s

stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . .

Net income (loss) attributable to Vale’s stockholders . . . . . . . . . . .

Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Vale’s stockholders:
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (restated): . . . . . . . . . .
Common share (US$) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8

14

9

33,967
(21,039)

12,928

(531)
(340)
(413)
(420)

(1,704)
(294)

10,930

3,404
(6,423)
98
(180)

7,829

(849)
(646)

(1,495)

6,334
21

27,488
(17,650)

9,838

(507)
(319)
(453)
(267)

(1,546)
(1,240)

7,052

7,968
(6,125)
309
(1,220)

7,984

(943)
(1,838)

(2,781)

5,203
(8)

23,384
(18,751)

4,633

(612)
(395)
(942)
(207)

(2,156)
(8,708)

(6,231)

7,792
(18,446)
(445)
(349)

(17,679)

(332)
5,581

5,249

(12,430)
(501)

6,313

5,211

(11,929)

(813)
(7)

(806)

5,521
14

5,507

(1,227)
2

(1,229)

3,976
(6)

3,982

(190)
10

(200)

(12,620)
(491)

(12,129)

1.05

0.77

(2.33)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

F-6
F-6

12APR201813380467

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
In millions of United States dollars

14NOV201111161635

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other comprehensive income (loss):
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to the income statement
Translation adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Retirement benefit obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total items that will not be reclassified subsequently to the income statement,
net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to the income statement
Translation adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Available-for-sale financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash flow hedge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net investments hedge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer of realized results to net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total of items that may be reclassified subsequently to the income statement,

net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total comprehensive income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . .

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Vale’s stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

From continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
From discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2017

5,521

(717)
(46)

(763)

1,026
–
–
(95)
(11)

920

5,678

13

5,665

5,696
(31)

5,665

Year ended December 31

2016

3,976

2015

(12,620)

6,460
(70)

(18,128)
69

6,390

(18,059)

(3,677)
1
10
–
(78)

(3,744)

6,622

111

6,511

6,642
(131)

6,511

10,244
1
816
–
(369)

10,692

(19,987)

(543)

(19,444)

(19,550)
106

(19,444)

Items above are stated net of tax and the related taxes are disclosed in note 8.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

F-7
F-7

12APR201813380467

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
In millions of United States dollars

14NOV201111161635

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

Cash flow from operating activities:
Income (loss) before income taxes from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Continuing operations adjustments for:
Equity results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment and other results on non-current assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment and other results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and depletion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial results, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Suppliers and contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision—Payroll, related charges and others remunerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other taxes assets and liabilities, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred revenue—Gold stream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets and liabilities, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest on loans and borrowings paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivatives paid, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest on participative stockholders’ debentures paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes—Settlement program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash flow from investing activities:
Financial investments redeemed (invested) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans and advances—net receipts (payments) (note 21) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Guarantees and deposits—net receipts (payments) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions to investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions to property, plant and equipment and intangible. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from disposal of assets and investments (note 15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends and interest on capital received from associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from gold stream transaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash flow from financing activities:
Loans and borrowings
Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repayments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transactions with stockholders:
Dividends and interest on capital attributed to stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends and interest on capital paid to noncontrolling interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transactions with noncontrolling stockholders (note 15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities from continuing operations . . . . . . .

Net cash provided by (used in) discontinued operations (note 14) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Increase in cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents in the beginning of the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effects of disposals of subsidiaries and merger, net on cash and cash equivalents . . . . .

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7,829

(98)
294
180
3,708
3,019

1,277
(339)
232
372
(297)
—
(615)

15,562
(1,686)
(240)
(135)
(563)
(488)

12,450

(90)
(445)
(48)
(93)
(3,831)
922
227
—

(3,358)

1,976
(8,998)

(1,456)
(126)
(98)

(8,702)

(252)

138
4,262
(60)
(12)

4,328

7,984

(17,679)

(309)
1,240
1,220
3,487
(1,843)

(2,744)
288
243
133
(109)
524
441

10,555
(1,663)
(1,602)
(84)
(388)
(417)

6,401

12
(210)
(41)
(239)
(4,951)
543
193
276

(4,417)

6,994
(7,717)

(250)
(291)
(17)

(1,281)

(118)

585
3,591
86
—

4,262

445
8,708
349
3,719
10,654

1,671
(217)
658
(578)
(222)
532
(456)

7,584
(1,457)
(1,202)
(65)
(544)
(384)

3,932

308
(17)
(67)
(65)
(8,114)
1,456
318
368

(5,813)

4,995
(2,753)

(1,500)
(15)
1,049

1,776

140

35
3,974
(418)
—

3,591

Non-cash transactions:
Additions to property, plant and equipment—capitalized loans and borrowing costs .

370

653

761

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

F-8
F-8

12APR201813380467

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
In millions of United States dollars

14NOV201111161635

Notes

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other financial assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recoverable taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20
10
13
11

12

Non-current assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14

Non-current assets
Judicial deposits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other financial assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recoverable taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Investments in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangibles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities
Current liabilities
Suppliers and contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans and borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other financial liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Liabilities related to associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends and interest on capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

27(c)
13

12
8(a)

15
17
18

20
13
8(d)

21
25
29(d)

Liabilities associated with non-current assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14

Non-current liabilities
Loans and borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other financial liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Liabilities related to associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred revenue—Gold stream. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity attributable to Vale’s stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20
13
8(d)
8(a)
25
21

29

4,328
2,600
2,022
3,926
781
1,172
538

15,367
3,587

18,954

1,986
3,232
530
638
6,638
267

13,291
3,568
8,493
54,878

80,230

99,184

4,041
1,703
374
697
355
326
1,394
1,441
1,604

11,935
1,179

13,114

20,786
2,894
4,890
1,719
7,027
670
1,849
1,463

41,298

54,412

43,458
1,314

44,772

99,184

4,262
3,663
292
3,349
159
1,625
628

13,978
8,589

22,567

962
626
527
727
7,343
276

10,461
3,696
6,871
55,419

76,447

99,014

3,630
1,660
767
657
171
292
952
816
1,197

10,142
1,090

11,232

27,662
2,087
4,961
1,700
5,748
785
2,090
1,725

46,758

57,990

39,042
1,982

41,024

99,014

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

F-9
F-9

12APR201813380467

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
In millions of United States dollars

14NOV201111161635

Results from
operation
with
Share conversion Capital noncontrolling
interest
capital

Results on

of shares

reserve

Profit
reserves

Treasury
stocks

Unrealized
fair value
gain

Cumulative
translation Retained
(losses) adjustments earnings

Equity
attributable
to Vale’s
stockholders

Equity
attributable

Total
to noncontrolling stockholders’
equity

interests

(449)

19,985

(1,477)

(1,713)

(22,686)

–

55,122

1,199

56,321

(12,129)

(12,129)

(491)

(12,620)

F
F
-
-
1
1
0
0

Balance at December 31, 2014 .

61,614

(152)

Loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive income:
Retirement benefit obligations.
Cash flow hedge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Available-for-sale financial

instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustments . . . . . . . .
Transactions with stockholders:
Dividends and interest on

capital of  Vale’s
stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dividends of noncontrolling

interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Acquisitions and disposal of
noncontrolling interest
(note 15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Capitalization of

noncontrolling interest
advances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appropriation to undistributed
retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–

–

–

Balance at December 31, 2015 .

61,614

(152)

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive income:
Retirement benefit obligations.
Cash flow hedge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Available-for-sale financial

instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustments . . . . . . . .

–

–
–

–
–

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–
–

–
–

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

(253)

–

–

–

–
–

–
(5,371)

(1,500)

–

–

–

(12,129)

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

70
447

1
203

–

–

–

–

–

–

–
–

–
(2,665)

–

–

(336)

–

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–

–

12,129

70
447

1
(7,833)

(1,500)

–

(1)
–

–
(51)

–

(32)

69
447

1
(7,884)

(1,500)

(32)

(589)

1,455

866

–

–

36

–

(702)

985

(1,477)

(992)

(25,687)

–

33,589

2,115

–

–
–

–
–

–

–
–

–
195

–

–
–

–
–

–

(70)
7

1
(93)

–

–
–

–
2,387

3,982

3,982

–
–

–
102

(70)
7

1
2,591

(6)

–
–

–
117

36

–

35,704

3,976

(70)
7

1
2,708

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

12APR201813380467

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity (Continued)
In millions of United States dollars

14NOV201111161635

Results from
operation
with
Share conversion Capital noncontrolling
interest
capital

Results on

of shares

reserve

Profit
reserves

Treasury
stocks

Unrealized
fair value
gain

Cumulative
translation Retained
(losses) adjustments earnings

Equity
attributable
to Vale’s
stockholders

Equity
attributable

Total
to noncontrolling stockholders’
equity

interests

Transactions with stockholders:
Dividends and interest on

capital of Vale’s stockholders .

Dividends of noncontrolling

interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Acquisitions and disposal of
noncontrolling interest
(note 15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Capitalization of

noncontrolling interest
advances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appropriation to undistributed
retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Balance at December 31, 2016 .

61,614

(152)

F
F
-
-
1
1
1
1

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive income:
Retirement benefit obligations.
Net investments hedge

(note 24b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustments . . . . . . . .
Transactions with stockholders:
Dividends and interest on

capital of  Vale’s
stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dividends of noncontrolling

interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Acquisitions and disposal of
noncontrolling interest
(note 15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Capitalization of

noncontrolling interest
advances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appropriation to undistributed
retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Merger of Valepar (note 29) . . .

–

–

–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–
–

–

–

–

–

1,139

–

–

3

–

–

(699)

–

–

–
–

–

–

(255)

–

–

Balance at December 31, 2017 .

61,614

(152)

1,139

(954)

–

–

–

–

3,023

4,203

–

–

–
(158)

(658)

–

–

–

4,032
–

7,419

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(3,023)

(1,477)

(1,147)

(23,300)

–

–

–

–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(46)

–
10

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(95)
447

5,507

–

–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(4,032)
–

(1,477)

(1,183)

(22,948)

–

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

(1,061)

(1,061)

–

(1,061)

(1,475)

(2,133)

–

(2,133)

–

3

–

–

39,042

5,507

(46)

(95)
299

(268)

(268)

(1)

25

–

1,982

14

–

–
(1)

2

25

–

41,024

5,521

(46)

(95)
298

–

(202)

(202)

(255)

(512)

(767)

–

–
1,139

43,458

33

–
–

1,314

33

–
1,139

44,772

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

1. Corporate information

Vale S.A. (the ‘‘Parent Company’’) is a public company headquartered in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
with securities traded on the stock exchanges of S ˜ao Paulo—B3 S.A. (Vale3), New York—NYSE (VALE),
Paris—NYSE Euronext (Vale3) and Madrid—LATIBEX (XVALO).

Vale S.A. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries (‘‘Vale’’ or ‘‘Company’’) are global producers of iron ore
and iron ore pellets, key raw materials for steelmaking, and producers of nickel, which is used to produce
stainless  steel  and  metal  alloys  employed  in  the  production  of  several  products.  The  Company  also
produces  copper,  metallurgical  and  thermal  coal,  manganese  ore,  ferroalloys,  platinum  group  metals,
gold, silver and cobalt. The information by segment is presented in note 3.

On December 22, 2017 after the conversion of the class ‘‘A’’ preferred shares into common shares, the
Company migrated to the special listing segment of B3 S.A. (‘‘Novo Mercado’’), and became a company
with no defined controlling shareholder (further details in the notes 4 and 29). As of this date, Vale’s
common shares are traded in the Novo Mercado.

2. Basis for preparation of the financial statements

a) Statement of compliance

The consolidated financial statements of the Company (‘‘financial statements’’) have been prepared and
are being presented in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (‘‘IFRS’’) as issued
by the International Accounting Standards Board (‘‘IASB’’).

b) Basis of presentation

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as adjusted to reflect:
(i)  the  fair  value  of  financial  instruments  measured  at  fair  value  through  income  statement  or
available-for-sale financial instruments measured at fair value through the statement of comprehensive
income; and (ii) impairment of assets.

The issue of these financial statements was authorized by the Board of Directors on February 27, 2018.

c) Consolidation and investments in associates and joint ventures

The financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities and transactions of the Parent Company and its direct
and indirect controlled entities (‘‘subsidiaries’’). These subsidiaries are consolidated when the Company is
exposed or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to
direct the significant activities of the investee. The Company also consolidates subsidiaries that Vale does
not own the majority of the voting capital, but has control through other means, such as a stockholder’s
agreement. Intercompany balances and transactions, which include unrealized profits, are eliminated.

The entities over which the Company has joint control (‘‘joint ventures’’) or significant influence, but not
control  (‘‘associates’’)  are  presented  in  note  15.  Those  investments  are  accounted  for  using  the  equity

F-12
F-12

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

2. Basis for preparation of the financial statements (Continued)

method.  For  interests  in  joint  arrangements  not  classified  as  joint  ventures  (‘‘joint  operations’’),  the
Company recognizes its share of assets, liabilities and net income.

Unrealized gains on downstream or upstream transactions between the Company and its associates and
joint ventures are eliminated fully or proportionately to the Company’s interest.

The material consolidated entities in each business segment are as follows:

Location

Main
activity/Business

% Ownership

capital

interest

% Voting % Noncontrolling

Direct and indirect subsidiaries
Companhia Portu ´aria da Ba´ıa de

Sepetiba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minera¸c ˜ao Corumbaense Reunida S.A. .
Minera¸c ˜oes Brasileiras Reunidas S.A.

Brazil
Brazil

Iron ore
Iron ore and manganese

100.0% 100.0%
100.0% 100.0%

(‘‘MBR’’) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Salobo Metais S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PT Vale Indonesia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vale International Holdings GmbH . . . . . .
Vale Canada Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vale International S.A.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vale Malaysia Minerals Sdn. Bhd. . . . . . . .
Vale Mangan ˆes S.A.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vale Mo¸cambique S.A.
Vale Nouvelle Caledonie S.A.S.
Vale Oman Distribution Center LLC . . . . .
Vale Oman Pelletizing Company LLC . . .

Brazil
Brazil
Indonesia
Austria
Canada
Switzerland
Malaysia
Brazil

Oman
Oman

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mozambique
. . . . . . . . . New Caledonia

Iron ore
Copper
Nickel
Holding and research
Nickel
Trading and holding
Iron ore
Manganese and ferroalloys
Coal
Nickel
Iron ore and pelletizing
Pelletizing

62.5%

59.2%

98.3%
100.0% 100.0%
59.2%
100.0% 100.0%
100.0% 100.0%
100.0% 100.0%
100.0% 100.0%
100.0% 100.0%
81.0%
95.0%
100.0% 100.0%
70.0%

81.0%
95.0%

70.0%

0.0%
0.0%

37.5%
0.0%
40.8%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
19.0%
5.0%
0.0%
30.0%

Investments held by investors in Vale’s subsidiaries are classified as noncontrolling interests. The Company
treats transactions with noncontrolling interests as transactions with equity owners of the Company as
described in note 16.

For  purchases  from  noncontrolling  interests,  the  difference  between  any  consideration  paid  and  the
proportion  acquired  of  the  carrying  value  of  net  assets  of  the  subsidiary  is  recorded  in  stockholders’
equity. Gains or losses on disposals to noncontrolling interest are also directly recorded in stockholders’
equity in ‘‘Results from operation with noncontrolling interest’’.

As explained in note 14, the Fertilizer Segment is presented as discontinued operations, which includes
the following subsidiaries:

Location

Main
activity/Business

% Ownership

capital

interest

% Voting % Noncontrolling

Direct and indirect subsidiaries
Compa ˜nia Minera Miski Mayo S.A.C.
. . . . .
Vale Fertilizantes S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vale Cubat ˜ao Fertilizantes Ltda.
. . . . . . . . . .

Peru
Brazil
Brazil

Fertilizers
Fertilizers
Fertilizers

40.0%
100.0%
100.0%

51.0%
100.0%
100.0%

60.0%
0.0%
0.0%

F-13
F-13

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

2. Basis for preparation of the financial statements (Continued)

d) Functional currency and presentation currency

The financial statements of the Company and its associates and joint ventures are measured using the
currency  of  the  primary  economic  environment  in  which  the  entity  operates  (‘‘functional  currency’’),
which in the case of the Parent Company is the Brazilian real (‘‘R$’’). For presentation purposes, these
financial statements are presented in United States dollar (‘‘US$’’) as the Company believes that this is how
international investors analyze the financial statements.

Transactions  in  foreign  currencies  are  translated  into  the  functional  currency  using  the  exchange  rate
prevailing at the transaction date. The foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the translation at
the exchange rates prevailing at the end of the year are recognized in the income statement as ‘‘financial
income or expense’’. The exceptions are transactions for which gains and losses are recognized in the
statement of comprehensive income.

The income statement and statement of financial position of the subsidiaries for which the functional
currency  is  different  from  the  presentation  currency  are  translated  into  the  presentation  currency  as
follows: (i) assets, liabilities and stockholders’ equity, except for the components described in item (iii) are
translated at the closing rate at the statement of financial position date; (ii) income and expenses are
translated at the average exchange rates, except for specific significant transactions that, are translated at
the rate at the transaction date and; (iii) capital, capital reserves and treasury stock are translated at the
rate  at  each  transaction  date.  All  resulting  exchange  differences  are  recognized  directly  in  the
comprehensive income as ‘‘translation adjustments’’. When a foreign operation is partially disposed of or
sold,  foreign  exchanges  differences  that  were  recognized  in  equity  are  recognized  in  the  income  of
statement.

The exchange rates used by the Company to translate its foreign operations are as follows:

US Dollar (‘‘US$’’) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Canadian dollar (‘‘CAD’’) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Australian dollar (‘‘AUD’’) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Euro (‘‘EUR’’ or ‘‘e’’) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e) Significant accounting policies

Closing rate

Average rate for the year ended

2017

3.3080
2.6344
2.5849
3.9693

2016

3.2591
2.4258
2.3560
3.4384

2015

3.9048
2.8171
2.8532
4.2504

2017

3.1925
2.4618
2.4474
3.6088

2016

3.4833
2.6280
2.5876
3.8543

2015

3.3387
2.6020
2.4979
3.6999

Significant and relevant accounting policies for the understanding of the recognition and measurement
basis used on the preparation of these financial statements were included in the respective notes. The
accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are consistent with those
adopted and disclosed in the financial statements of prior years.

The Company has not early adopted any standards and interpretations that have been issued or amended
but are not yet effective for the year ended December 31, 2017.

F-14
F-14

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

2. Basis for preparation of the financial statements (Continued)

The  following  new  accounting  standards  were  issued  by  IASB,  but  are  not  yet  effective  for  2017.  The
Company has performed an assessment on the Company’s financial statements and the current expected
impacts are detailed below:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

IFRS 9 Financial instrument—In July 2014, the IASB issued the final version of IFRS 9 that
replaces  IAS  39  Financial  Instruments:  Recognition  and  Measurement.  This  standard
addresses  the  classification  and  measurement  of  financial  assets  and  liabilities,  new
impairment model and new rules for hedge accounting. This standard shall apply for annual
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. The Company has reviewed its financial assets
and liabilities and is expecting the following impact from the adoption of the new standard
on 1 January 2018:

Classification and measurement—IFRS 9 establishes a new approach to determine whether a
financial asset should be measured at amortized cost or fair value, based on the cash flow
characteristics  and  the  business  model  in  which  an  asset  is  held.  The  Company  does  not
currently expect the impact of these changes to be significant.

Impairment—IFRS  9  requires  ‘‘expected  credit  loss’’  impairment  model  for  accounts
receivables measured at amortized cost, on either a 12-month or the lifetime basis, rather
than  only  incurred  credit  losses  as  is  the  case  under  IAS  39.  Given  that  Vale’s  account
receivables are short-term in nature and considering its credit rating and risk management
policies in place, the Company does not expect these changes will have a significant impact
on its financial statements.

Hedge accounting—the changes in IFRS 9 relating to hedge accounting will have no impact
as  the  Company  does  not  currently  apply  cash  flow  or  fair  value  hedge  accounting.  The
Company currently applies the net investment hedge, which there is no changes introduced
by this new standard.

IFRS  15  Revenue  from  Contracts  with  Customers—In  May  2014,  the  IASB  issued  IFRS  15,
which  replaces  IAS  18  Revenues  and  the  related  interpretations.  IFRS  15  introduces  the
five-step model for revenue recognition from contracts with customers. The new standard is
based on the core principle that revenue is recognized when the control of a good or service
transfers  to  a  customer  of  an  amount  that  reflects  the  consideration  to  which  the  entity
expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This standard shall apply for
annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018.

The  Company  will  adopt  this  new  standard  on  the  required  effective  date  using  the  modified
retrospective method. Accordingly, the Company will not be required to restate the comparative figures.

F-15
F-15

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

2. Basis for preparation of the financial statements (Continued)

During  2017,  the  Company  performed  a  detailed  assessment  of  IFRS  15,  based  on  the  contractual
arrangements across the Company’s main revenue streams. The result of this assessment and the impacts
identified in relation to the IFRS 15 first adoption are summarized as follows:

Vale’s  revenue  is  predominantly  derived  from  commodities  sales,  where  the  point  of  recognition  is
dependent on the sales arrangement, which is governed by parameters established by the International
Commercial Terms (Incoterms). There will be no significant impact on the timing of commodities revenue
recognition under IFRS 15, since usually the transfer of risks and rewards and the transfer of control under
the sales contracts are at the same point in time.

However, a significant proportion of Vale’s sales are under CFR (Cost and Freight) or CIF (Cost, Insurance
and Freight) Incoterms, in which the Company is responsible for providing shipping services after the date
that Vale transfers control of the goods to the customers. Currently, the revenue from shipping services
are recognized upon loading, as well as the related costs, and are not considered a separate service under
IAS 18.

Under IFRS 15, the provision of shipping services for CFR and CIF contracts will be a distinct service and,
therefore, a separate performance obligation to which a proportion of the transaction price should be
allocated and recognized over time as the shipping services are provided. The impact on the timing of
revenue recognition of the proportion allocated to the shipping service is deemed not significant to the
Company’s year-end results. Therefore, such revenue will not be presented separately in the Company’s
financial statements.

The accounting treatment for contracts with provisional pricing features that are currently considered as
an embedded derivative in accordance with IAS 39—Financial Instruments, shall remain unmodified in
accordance  with  IFRS  15  and  IFRS  9—Financial  Instruments.  In  addition,  IFRS  15  introduces  a  new
disclosure requirement for the provisional prices impact on the financial statements. When applicable,
systems  and  processes  will  be  amended  to  allow  the  disclosure  of  this  information  in  the  Company’s
financial statements.

IFRS 15 also requires the Company to treat deferred revenue related to the gold stream transaction as
variable and, therefore must be adjusted each time there is a change in the underlying production profile.
The Company does not expect to record a significant adjustment upon transition to this new standard.

(cid:127)

IFRS 16 Lease—In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, which replaces IAS 17 Leases and
related interpretations. The IFRS 16 set forth that the lessee must recognize all leases on the
statement of financial position, as the distinction between operating and finance leases is
removed.  The  standard  provides  certain  exemptions  from  recognizing  leases  on  the
statement of financial position, including where the underlying asset is of low value or the
lease term is 12 months or less. Under the new standard, the Company will be required to
recognize right of use lease assets and lease liabilities on the statement of financial position.
Liabilities are measured based on the present value of future lease payments over the lease
term.  The  right  of  use  lease  asset  generally  reflects  the  lease  liability.  This  standard  shall
apply for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019.

F-16
F-16

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

2. Basis for preparation of the financial statements (Continued)

The Company has commenced the qualitative analysis of its main contracts and will continue to assess the
quantitative  potential  effect  of  IFRS  16  during  2018,  which  depends  on  the  decision  regarding  the
transition method and the use of practical expedients and/or exemptions. It is therefore not yet possible
to  estimate  the  amount  of  right-of-use  assets  and  lease  liabilities  that  will  have  to  be  recognised  on
adoption of the new standard and how this may affect the Company’s income statement.

The information on the main operating leases is presented in note 31.

f) Critical accounting estimates and judgments

The preparation of financial statements requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates and the
application of judgment by management in applying the Company’s accounting policies. These estimates
are based on the experience, best knowledge, information available at the statement of financial position
date and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under
the circumstances. Changes in facts and circumstances may lead to the revision of these estimates. Actual
future results may differ from the estimates.

The  significant  estimates  and  judgments  applied  by  Company  in  the  preparation  of  these  financial
statements are as follows:

Note

7
8
15
18
19
21
23
26
27
28

Significant estimates and judgments

Deferred revenue—Gold stream transaction
Deferred income taxes
Consolidation
Mineral reserves and mine useful life
Impairment of non-current assets
Liabilities related to associates and joint ventures
Fair values estimate
Asset retirement obligation
Litigation
Employee postretirement obligations

3.

Information by business segment and by geographic area

The Company operated five reportable segments during this year: Ferrous Minerals, Coal, Base Metals,
Fertilizers (presented as discontinued operations) and Others. The segments are aligned with products
and reflect the structure used by Management to evaluate Company performance. The responsible bodies
for  making  operational  decisions,  allocating  resources  and  evaluating  performance  are  the  Executive
Boards and the Board of Directors. The performance of the operating segments is assessed based on a
measure of adjusted EBITDA.

The information presented to the Executive Board on the performance of each segment is derived from
the accounting records, adjusted for reallocations between segments.

F-17
F-17

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

3.

Information by business segment and by geographic area (Continued)

The main activities of the operating segments are as follows:

Ferrous minerals—Ferrous minerals comprises the production and extraction of iron ore, iron ore pellets
and  its  logistic  services  (railroads,  ports  and  terminals),  manganese,  ferroalloys  and  others  ferrous
products and services.

Coal—Coal comprises the extraction of metallurgical and thermal coal and its logistic services (railroads,
ports and terminals).

Base  metals—Base  metals  include  the  production  and  extraction  of  non-ferrous  minerals,  and  are
presented as nickel and its by-products (ferro-nickel, copper, gold, precious metals and others) and copper
(copper concentrated).

Fertilizers  (Discontinued  operations)—Fertilizers  include  the  production  of  the  three  major  groups  of
nutrients (potash, phosphate and nitrogen) and other fertilizers products. The group of assets related to
this segment is classified as ‘‘Non-current assets and liabilities associated with non-current assets held for
sale’’ (note 14).

Others—Other  comprises  sales  and  expenses  of  other  products,  services,  research  and  evaluation,
investments in joint ventures and associates of other business and contingencies not directly related to
the core business.

a) Adjusted EBITDA

The  definition  of  adjusted  EBITDA  for  the  Company  is  the  operating  income  or  loss  excluding  (i)  the
depreciation,  depletion  and  amortization,  (ii)  results  on  measurement  or  sales  of  non-current  assets,

F-18
F-18

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

3.

Information by business segment and by geographic area (Continued)

(iii) impairment, (iv) onerous contracts and plus (v) dividends received and interest from associates and
joint ventures.

Sales,
Cost of goods administrative
Research
and other
operating
and
expenses evaluation

sold and
services
rendered

Net
operating
revenue

Pre operating
and

Dividends
received and
interest from

operational associates and Adjusted
EBITDA

stoppage joint ventures

Year ended December 31, 2017

Ferrous minerals
Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Iron ore Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys and manganese . . . . . .
Other ferrous products and

18,524
5,653
469

(7,950)
(2,876)
(278)

services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

483

(306)

25,129

(11,410)

Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals
Nickel and other products . . . . . . . .
Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Others. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,567

4,667
2,204

6,871
400

(1,354)

(3,437)
(979)

(4,416)
(375)

Total of continuing operations . . .

33,967

(17,555)

Discontinued operations

(Fertilizers) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,746

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

35,713

(1,606)

(19,161)

(284)
(65)
(12)

5

(356)

(44)

(152)
(27)

(179)
(281)

(860)

(102)

(962)

(88)
(19)
–

(2)

(109)

(14)

(49)
(13)

(62)
(155)

(340)

(12)

(352)

(181)
(7)
(4)

–

(192)

(4)

(75)
–

(75)
(9)

(280)

(25)

(305)

30
81
–

19

130

179

–
–

–
97

10,051
2,767
175

199

13,192

330

954
1,185

2,139
(323)

406

15,338

3

4

409

15,342

F-19
F-19

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

3.

Information by business segment and by geographic area (Continued)

Sales,
Cost of goods administrative
Research
and other
operating
and
expenses evaluation

sold and
services
rendered

Net
operating
revenue

Pre operating
and

Dividends
received and
interest from

operational associates and Adjusted
EBITDA

stoppage joint ventures

Year ended December 31, 2016

Ferrous minerals
Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Iron ore Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys and manganese . . . . . .
Other ferrous products and

15,784
3,827
302

services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

438

Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals
Nickel and other products . . . . . . . .
Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other base metals products . . . . . .

Others. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20,351

839

4,472
1,667
–

6,139
159

(6,622)
(2,002)
(231)

(269)

(9,124)

(872)

(3,204)
(924)
–

(4,128)
(259)

Total of continuing operations . . .

27,488

(14,383)

Discontinued operations

(Fertilizers) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,875

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

29,363

(1,545)

(15,928)

(486)
(73)
(4)

(8)

(571)

35

(95)
(25)
150

30
(157)

(663)

(87)

(750)

(91)
(13)
–

(2)

(106)

(15)

(78)
(5)
–

(83)
(116)

(320)

(22)

(342)

(150)
(22)
(11)

(4)

(187)

(41)

(114)
–
–

(114)
(1)

(343)

(16)

(359)

10
103
–

8,445
1,820
56

–

155

113

10,476

–

4
–
–

4
76

(54)

985
713
150

1,848
(298)

193

11,972

4

209

197

12,181

F-20
F-20

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

3.

Information by business segment and by geographic area (Continued)

Sales,
Cost of goods administrative
Research
and other
operating
and
expenses evaluation

sold and
services
rendered

Net
operating
revenue

Pre operating
and

Dividends
received and
interest from

operational associates and Adjusted
EBITDA

stoppage joint ventures

Year ended December 31, 2015

Ferrous minerals
Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Iron ore Pellets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ferroalloys and manganese . . . . . .
Other ferrous products and

12,330
3,600
162

(7,604)
(2,121)
(175)

services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

470

(341)

16,562

(10,241)

Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

526

(839)

Base metals
Nickel and other products . . . . . . . .
Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other base metals products . . . . . .

Others. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,693
1,470
–

6,163
133

(3,393)
(903)
–

(4,296)
(139)

Total of continuing operations . . .

23,384

(15,515)

Discontinued operations

(Fertilizers) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,225

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

25,609

(1,469)

(16,984)

(398)
9
1

8

(380)

(140)

(154)
(32)
230

44
(160)

(636)

(37)

(673)

(121)
(4)
–

(3)

(128)

(22)

(103)
(8)
–

(111)
(134)

(395)

(82)

(477)

(124)
(24)
(19)

(2)

(169)

(61)

(411)
(1)
–

(412)
–

(642)

(70)

(712)

22
225
–

8

255

28

–
–
–

–
35

4,105
1,685
(31)

140

5,899

(508)

632
526
230

1,388
(265)

318

6,514

–

567

318

7,081

Adjusted EBITDA is reconciled to net income (loss) as follows:

From Continuing operations

Year ended December 31

Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

15,338

11,972

2017

2016

Depreciation, depletion and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends received and interest from associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment and other results on non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial results, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment and other results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) attributable to Vale’s stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3,708)
(406)
(294)

10,930
(3,019)
98
(180)
(1,495)

6,334
21

6,313

F-21
F-21

2015

6,514

(3,719)
(318)
(8,708)

(6,231)
(10,654)
(445)
(349)
5,249

(12,430)
(501)

(3,487)
(193)
(1,240)

7,052
1,843
309
(1,220)
(2,781)

5,203
(8)

5,211

(11,929)

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

3.

Information by business segment and by geographic area (Continued)

From Discontinued operations

Adjusted EBITDA from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Depreciation, depletion and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends received and interest from associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial results, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Loss from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Loss attributable to Vale’s stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

b) Assets by segment

Year ended December 31

2017

4

(1)
(3)
(885)

(885)
(28)
(2)
102

(813)
(7)

(806)

2016

209

(347)
(4)
(1,738)

(1,880)
20
3
630

(1,227)
2

(1,229)

2015

567

(310)
–
(157)

100
(147)
6
(149)

(190)
10

(200)

Product inventory

Investments in
associates and
joint ventures

Property, plant
and equipment
and intangible(i)

Year ended December 31, 2017

Additions to
property, plant
and equipment
and intangible(ii)

Depreciation,
depletion and
amortization(iii)

Ferrous minerals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,770
82
1,009
6

2,867

1,922
317
13
1,316

3,568

36,103
1,719
23,603
1,946

63,371

2,679
118
1,010
24

3,831

1,767
297
1,614
30

3,708

Product inventory

Investments in
associates and
joint ventures

Property, plant
and equipment
and intangible(i)

Year ended December 31, 2016

Additions to
property, plant
and equipment
and intangible(ii)

Depreciation,
depletion and
amortization(iii)

Ferrous minerals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,134
126
1,110
3

2,373

1,808
285
12
1,591

3,696

34,834
1,907
23,372
2,177

62,290

3,246
612
1,057
36

4,951

1,618
191
1,658
20

3,487

(i)

Goodwill  is  allocated  mainly  in  ferrous  minerals  and  base  metals  segments  in  the  amount  of  US$2,157  and  US$1,953  in
December 31, 2017 and US$1,246 and US$1,835 in December 31, 2016, respectively.
Includes only cash effect.

(ii)
(iii) Refers to amounts recognized in the income statement.

F-22
F-22

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

3.

Information by business segment and by geographic area (Continued)

c) Investment in associates and joint ventures, intangible and property, plant and
equipment by geographic area

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Investments
Property,
in associates
and joint
plant and
ventures Intangible equipment

Investments
Property,
in associates
and joint
plant and
ventures Intangible equipment

Total

Total

Brazil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Americas, except Brazil and Canada .
Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Indonesia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia, except Indonesia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Caledonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mozambique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other regions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,993
–
200
–
–
372
–
–
–
–
3

3,568

6,231
2,118
–
–
–
–
–
–
143
1
–

8,493

33,782 43,006
10,967 13,085
627
394
2,787
1,472
45
2,965
1,675
869
14

427
394
2,787
1,100
45
2,965
1,532
868
11

54,878 66,939

3,172
–
185
–
–
339
–
–
–
–
–

3,696

4,720
2,002
–
–
–
–
–
–
149
–
–

6,871

34,509 42,401
10,267 12,269
215
639
2,972
1,540
43
3,087
1,864
956
–

30
639
2,972
1,201
43
3,087
1,715
956
–

55,419 65,986

d) Net operating revenue by geographic area

Year ended December 31, 2017

Ferrous
minerals

Base
Coal metals

Others

Total

Americas, except United States and Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United States of America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe, except Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Middle East/Africa/Oceania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia, except Japan and China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brazil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

593
355
1,097
1,721
1,768
1,927
13,442
1,332
2,894

–
–
–
396
171
130
–
711
159

Net operating revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

25,129

1,567

1,009
872
292
1,985
13
399
576
1,539
186

6,871

70
83
–
11
–
–
–
–
236

1,672
1,310
1,389
4,113
1,952
2,456
14,018
3,582
3,475

400

33,967

F-23
F-23

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

3.

Information by business segment and by geographic area (Continued)

Year ended December 31, 2016

Ferrous
minerals

Base
Coal metals

Others

Total

Americas, except United States and Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United States of America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe, except Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Middle East/Africa/Oceania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia, except Japan and China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brazil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

334
232
1,077
1,482
1,252
1,292
11,985
912
1,785

Net operating revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20,351

20
–
–
218
95
121
63
305
17

839

1,172
749
302
1,552
20
328
699
1,173
144

6,139

–
24
–
17
–
–
–
–
118

1,526
1,005
1,379
3,269
1,367
1,741
12,747
2,390
2,064

159

27,488

Year ended December 31, 2015

Ferrous
minerals

Base
Coal metals

Others

Total

Americas, except United States and Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United States of America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe, except Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Middle East/Africa/Oceania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia, except Japan and China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brazil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

359
30
1,042
1,464
1,009
1,512
8,400
1,081
1,665

Net operating revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16,562

18
–
–
102
97
74
44
169
22

526

1,122
804
391
1,530
84
373
651
990
218

6,163

–
21
–
–
–
–
–
–
112

1,499
855
1,433
3,096
1,190
1,959
9,095
2,240
2,017

133

23,384

Accounting policy

Revenue  is  recognized  when  Vale  transfers  to  its  customers  all  of  the  significant  risks  and  rewards  of
ownership of the product sold or when the services are rendered. Net revenue excludes any applicable
sales taxes and is recognized at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable to the extent that
it is probable that economic benefits will flow to Vale and the revenues can be reliably measured.

Depending on the contract, revenue sales can be recognized when the product is available at the loading
port, loaded on the ship, at the port of discharge or at the custumer’s warehouse. Service revenues are
recognized in the amount by which the services are rendered and accepted by the customer.

In some cases, the sale price is determined on a provisional basis at the date of sale and adjustments to the
sales price subsequently occur based on movements in the quoted market or contractual prices up to the
date of final pricing. Revenue is recognized based on the estimated fair value of the total consideration
receivable, and the provisionally priced sales mechanism embedded within these sale arrangements has
the character of a derivative. Accordingly, the fair value of the final sales price adjustment is re-estimated
continuously and changes in fair value are recognized as operational revenue in the income statement.

F-24
F-24

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

3.

Information by business segment and by geographic area (Continued)

Amounts billed to customers for shipping related to products sold by the Company are recognized as
revenue when the Company is responsible for shipping. Shipping costs are recognized as operating costs.

Commodity price risk—The commodity price risk arises from volatility of iron ore, nickel, copper and coal
prices. The Company is mostly exposed to the fluctuations in the iron ore and copper price. The selling
price  these  products  can  be  measured  reliably  at  each  period,  since  the  price  is  quoted  on  an  active
market.

As of December 31, 2017, the Company had 33 million tons (2016: 36 million tons) provisionally priced
based on iron ore forward prices and 106 thousand tons (2016: 116 thousand tons) provisionally priced
based on copper forward prices. The final price of these sales will be determined during the first quarter
of 2018. A 10% change in the price of iron ore realized on the provisionally priced sales, all other factors
held constant, would increase or reduce net income by US$227. A 10% change in the price of copper
realized on the provisionally priced sales, all other factors held constant, would increase or reduce net
income by US$86.

4. Special events occurred during the year

The special events occurred during the year are those that, in the Company’s judgment, have significant
effect on: (i) its operations; and/or (ii) corporate governance structure; and/or (iii) the income statement
due to their size and nature. To determine whether an event or transaction should be disclosed as ‘‘special
events’’, the Company considers quantitative and qualitative factors, such as frequency and magnitude.

The special events identified by the Company are as follows:

a) Vale’s corporate governance restructuring

At the General Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting, held on June 27, 2017, shareholders approved the
corporate restructuring of the Company proposed by Valepar S.A. (former controlling shareholder). The
corporate restructuring was based on (i) conversion of Vale class ‘‘A’’ preferred shares into common shares;
(ii)  amendment  of  Vale’s  by-laws,  so  as  to  adjust  to  Novo  Mercado  rules;  and  (iii)  the  merger  of
Valepar S.A. into Vale.

The transaction was concluded on November 21, 2017 and the restructuring was approved at the General
Extraordinary Shareholder’s Meeting on December 21, 2017. Further details are disclosed in note 29.

F-25
F-25

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

4. Special events occurred during the year (Continued)

b) Events with significant effect on the income statement

Nacala Logistic Corridor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Samarco Provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of non-current assets—Fertilizers business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of non-current assets and onerous contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gold stream transaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred income tax in foreign jurisdiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

458
(180)
(885)
(271)
–
–

(878)

–
(1,109)
(1,738)
(1,174)
150
–

–
–
–
(8,769)
230
2,952

(3,871)

(5,587)

Nacala Logistic Corridor—In March 2017, the Company concluded the transaction with Mitsui to sell 15%
of its stake in Vale Mo¸cambique and 50% of its stake in the Nacala Logistics Corridor and recognized a
gain in the income statement of US$458. Further details are disclosed in note 15.

Samarco—In  2017,  the  Company  recognized  in  the  income  statement  the  amount  of  US$38  (2016:
US$1,038 (R$3,733 million)) in respect of the addition to the provision to comply with the reparation and
compensation  programs  related  to  the  dam  failure  of  Samarco  Minera¸c ˜ao  S.A.  The  Company  also
expensed  an  amount  of  US$142  (2016:  US$71)  applied  by  Samarco  to  funds  its  working  capital
requirements. Further details are disclosed in note 21.

Fertilizers—In December 2016, the Company approved the sale of fertilizers assets and the acquisition of a
noncontrolling interest in The Mosaic Company (‘‘Mosaic’’). The Company assessed the fair value less cost
of sell of the fertilizer business segment and an impairment loss of US$1,738 was recognized in the income
statement  from  discontinued  operations  in  the  year  ended  December  31,  2016.  In  January  2018
(subsequent event), the Company and Mosaic concluded the transaction, which was preceded by final
adjustments  agreed  by  the  parties  under  the  original  terms  and  conditions  of  the  negotiation.  As
consequence  of  these  adjustments,  an  impairment  loss  of  US$729  was  recognized  in  the  income
statement  from  discontinued  operations  in  December  2017.  Additionally,  in  November  2017,  the
Company entered into an agreement with Yara International ASA to sell its nitrogen assets located in
Cubat ˜ao,  Brazil  and  an  impairment  loss  of  US$156  was  recognized  in  the  income  statement  from
discontinued operations in the year ended December 31, 2017. Further details are disclosed in note 14.

Impairment of non-current assets and onerous contracts—In 2017, the Company placed an underground
mine in Sudbury in ‘‘care and maintenance’’ and an impairment of US$133 was recognized in the income
statement. In 2016, the Company recognized an impairment loss of US$1,174 mainly by the reduction in
the nickel price projections. In 2015, the Company recognized an impairment loss of US$8,769 mainly by:
(i) the reduction in estimated future coal prices combined with the increase of logistics costs and (ii) the
reduction the recoverable values of the VNL and VNC CGUs. Further details are disclosed in note 19.

F-26
F-26

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

4. Special events occurred during the year (Continued)

Gold stream transaction—In March 2015 and August 2016, a gold transaction with Wheaton Precious
Metals Corp. (‘‘WPW’’) entered into 2013, was amended to include in each contract an additional 25% of
the gold extracted as by-product of the Salobo copper mine. Furthermore, the Company recognized a
gain  of  the  result  on  sale  of  mineral  rights  in  the  amount  of  US$150  and  US$230  in  the  year  ended
December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, see note 7.

Deferred income tax—In 2015, in the first adoption of the Law 12.973, the Company recognized assets
deferred income tax related to accumulated losses of subsidiaries abroad in the amount of US$2,952, see
note 8.

5. Costs and expenses by nature

a) Cost of goods sold and services rendered

Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Materials and services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel oil and gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisition of products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation and depletion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Freight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year ended December 31

2017

2,295
3,814
1,313
3,096
963
543
3,484
3,346
2,185

2016

2,087
3,108
1,233
2,747
694
511
3,267
2,509
1,494

2015

2,092
2,954
1,207
2,518
482
829
3,236
3,496
1,937

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

21,039

17,650

18,751

Cost of goods sold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of services rendered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20,426
613

17,148
502

18,233
518

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

21,039

17,650

18,751

b) Selling and administrative expenses

Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Travel expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taxes and rents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

234
77
91
8
12
109

531

209
72
120
8
13
85

507

253
106
131
11
16
95

612

F-27
F-27

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

5. Costs and expenses by nature (Continued)

c) Others operational expenses (incomes), net

Provision for litigation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Profit sharing program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disposals (reversals) of materials and inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.

Financial result

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

169
149
17
85

420

137
76
(23)
77

267

11
15
55
126

207

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

Financial expenses
Loans and borrowings gross interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capitalized loans and borrowing costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivative financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Indexation and exchange rate variation (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participative stockholders’ debentures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expenses of REFIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Financial income
Short-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivative financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Indexation and exchange rate variation (b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(1,697)
370
(533)
(2,617)
(625)
(397)
(924)

(6,423)

176
987
1,939
302

3,404

Financial results, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3,019)

Summary of indexation and exchange rate variation
Loans and borrowings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net (a) + (b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(257)
(421)

(678)

(1,768)
653
(484)
(2,964)
(417)
(514)
(631)

(6,125)

92
1,740
6,058
78

7,968

1,843

5,099
(2,005)

3,094

(1,647)
761
(3,553)
(13,825)
965
(547)
(600)

(18,446)

140
1,076
6,465
111

7,792

(10,654)

(10,460)
3,100

(7,360)

As from January 1, 2017, the Company applies net investment hedge accounting in foreign operation.
Further details are disclosed in note 24.

F-28
F-28

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

7. Deferred revenue—Gold stream transaction

In 2013, the Company entered into a gold transaction with Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. (‘‘WPM’’), and
amended in March 2015 and August 2016, to sell 75% of the gold extracted as a by-product of the Salobo
copper mine and 70% of the gold extracted as a by-product of Sudbury nickel mines.

The transactions were bifurcated into two identifiable components (i) the sale of the mineral rights and,
(ii)  the  services  for  gold  extraction  on  the  portion  in  which  Vale  operates  as  an  agent  for  WPM  gold
extraction.

The  result  on  sale  of  mineral  rights  from  the  additional  transactions  of  US$150  and  US$230  was
recognized  in  the  years  ended  December  31,  2016  and  2015,  respectively,  under  ‘‘Other  operating
expenses, net’’.

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

Defining the gain on sale of mineral interest and the deferred revenue portion of the transaction requires
the use of critical accounting estimates as follows:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Discount rates used to measure the present value of future inflows and outflows;

Allocation of costs between nickel or copper and gold based on relative prices;

Expected margin for the independent elements (sale of mineral rights and service for gold
extraction) based on Company’s best estimate.

8.

Income taxes

a) Deferred income tax assets and liabilities

Taxes losses carryforward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Temporary differences:

Employee post retirement obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for litigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Timing differences arising on assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fair value of financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Allocated goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

4,471

684
457
1,268
549
(2,433)
(77)

448

4,919

6,638
(1,719)

4,919

6,194

620
215
1,264
167
(2,247)
(570)

(551)

5,643

7,343
(1,700)

5,643

F-29
F-29

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

8.

Income taxes (Continued)

Changes in deferred tax are as follows:

Balance at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Taxes losses carryforward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Timing differences arising on assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fair value of financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Allocated goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effect in income statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfers between asset and liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of discontinued operations
Income tax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer to net assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Taxes losses carryforward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Timing differences arising on assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fair value of financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Allocated goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect in income statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfers between asset and liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of discontinued operations
Income tax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Assets

7,904

(1,391)
298
(802)
–
(285)

(2,180)
322
900
(19)

627
(211)

7,343

(2,143)
103
388
–
897
(755)
40
(24)
(68)

102

6,638

Liabilities

1,670

–
–
–
(342)
–

(342)
322
36
14

–
–

1,700

–
–
–
(109)
–
(109)
40
75
13

–

1,719

Total

6,234

(1,391)
298
(802)
342
(285)

(1,838)
–
864
(33)

627
(211)

5,643

(2,143)
103
388
109
897
(646)
–
(99)
(81)

102

4,919

Law 12.973—The Brazilian corporate tax law was amended at the end of 2014 and became effective as
from fiscal year 2015. The change provided that profits from foreign subsidiaries are taxable in Brazil, on
an accrual basis, applying the differential between the nominal local tax rate and the Brazilian tax rates
(34%) considering the profit before tax in local GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and
local currency. Accordingly, from January 1st, 2015 the results from foreign subsidiaries are recognized on
that basis.

In  accordance  with  article  77  of  law  12.973,  the  losses  generated  by  the  foreign  subsidiaries,  before
income  taxes  and  the  equity  results,  may  be  offset  against  their  future  profits,  subject  to  certain
conditions.

In 2015, in the first adoption, the Company recognized deferred income tax assets related to accumulated
losses of subsidiaries abroad in the amount of US$2,952. Based on Company’s projections, the deferred tax
assets are expected to be utilized up to 5 years.

F-30
F-30

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

8.

Income taxes (Continued)

The tax loss carryforward does not expire in the Brazilian jurisdiction and the compensation is limited to
30%  of  the  taxable  income  for  the  year.  For  local  results  taxable  in  Brazil,  there  is  no  restriction  to
compensated profits from foreign subsidiaries against previously recorded deferred tax assets.

b) Income tax reconciliation—Income statement

The total amount presented as income taxes in the income statement is reconciled to the rate established
by law, as follows:

Year ended December 31

Income (loss) before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes at statutory rates—34% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustments that affect the basis of taxes:
Income tax benefit from interest on stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax incentives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrecognized tax losses of the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nondeductible effect of impairment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2017

7,829
(2,662)

728
372
35
(432)
(43)
507

2016

7,984
(2,715)

87
344
107
(708)
(97)
201

Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(1,495)

(2,781)

2015

(17,679)
6,011

356
61
(151)
(901)
(1,865)
1,738

5,249

c) Tax incentives

In Brazil, Vale has tax incentives to partially reduce the income tax generated by the operations conducted
in the North and Northeast regions that includes iron ore, manganese, copper and nickel. The incentive is
calculated based on the taxable income of the incentive activity (tax operating income) and takes into
account the allocation of tax operating income into different incentives applicable to different tranches
of production during the periods specified for each product, generally 10 years. Most of our incentives are
expected  to  expire  up  to  2024.  An  amount  equal  to  that  obtained  with  the  tax  saving  must  be
appropriated in retained earnings reserve account in stockholders’ equity, and cannot be distributed as
dividends to stockholders.

In addition to those incentives, 30% of the income tax due based on the tax operating income can be
reinvested  on  the  purchase  of  machinery  and  equipment,  subject  to  subsequent  approval  by  the
regulatory agency responsible, Superintend ˆencia do Desenvolvimento da Amazonia (‘‘SUDAM’’) and the
Superintend ˆencia  do  Desenvolvimento  do  Nordeste  (‘‘SUDENE’’).  The  reinvestment  is  accounted  in
retained earnings reserve account, which restricts the distribution as dividends to stockholders.

Vale is subject to the revision of income tax by local tax authorities in a range up to 10 years depending on
jurisdiction where the Company operates.

F-31
F-31

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

8.

Income taxes (Continued)

d) Income taxes—Settlement program (‘‘REFIS’’)

The balance mainly relates to REFIS to settle most of the claims related to the collection of income tax and
social  contribution  on  equity  gains  of  foreign  subsidiaries  and  affiliates  from  2003  to  2012.  As  at
December 31, 2017, the balance of US$5,375 (US$485 as current and US$4,890 as non-current) is due in
130 remaining monthly installments, bearing interest at the SELIC rate (Special System for Settlement and
Custody), while at December 31, 2016, the balance was US$5,419 (US$458 as current and US$4,961 as
non-current).

As at December 31, 2017, the SELIC rate was 7,0% per annum (13.75% per annum at December 31, 2016).

Accounting policy

The recognition of income taxes as deferred taxes is based on temporary differences between carrying
amount and the tax basis of assets and liabilities as well as taxes losses carryforwards. The deferred income
taxes assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right on the same taxable entity.

The deferred taxes assets arising from taxes losses and temporary differences are not recognized when is
not probable that future taxable profit will be available against which temporary differences and/or tax
losses can be utilized.

Income  taxes  are  recognized  in  the  income  statement,  except  for  items  recognized  directly  in
stockholders’  equity.  The  provision  for  income  tax  is  calculated  individually  for  each  entity  of  the
Company  based  on  Brazilian  tax  rates,  on  an  accrual  basis,  by  applying  the  differential  between  the
nominal local tax rates (based on rules enacted in the location of the entity) and the Brazilian tax rate.

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

Deferred tax assets arising from tax losses, negative social contribution basis and temporary differences
are registered taking into account the analysis of future performance, considering economic and financial
projections,  prepared  based  on  internal  assumptions  and  macroeconomic  environment,  trade  and  tax
scenarios that may be subject to changes in the future. The assumptions of future profits are based on
production and sales planning, commodity prices, operational costs, restructuring plans, reclamation and
planned capital costs.

9. Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share

As disclosed in note 29, the Company converted its class ‘‘A’’ preferred shares into common shares, without
changing the amount of share capital. Therefore, the weighted average number of shares was restated as
if the conversion had occurred at the beginning of the last comparative year presented.

F-32
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

9. Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (Continued)

The basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share are presented below:

Net income (loss) attributable to Vale’s stockholders:
Net income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Thousands of shares (restated)
Weighted average number of shares outstanding—common shares . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations

(restated):

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

6,313
(806)

5,507

5,211
(1,229)

3,982

(11,929)
(200)

(12,129)

5,197,432

5,197,432

5,197,432

Common share (US$) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic and diluted loss per share from discontinued operations (restated):
Common share (US$) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (restated):
Common share (US$) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.21

(0.16)

1.05

1.00

(0.23)

0.77

(2.30)

(0.03)

(2.33)

The Company does not have potential outstanding shares with dilutive effect on the earnings (loss) per
share.

10. Accounts receivable

Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

2,660
(60)

2,600

3,723
(60)

3,663

Accounts receivable related to the steel sector—%. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

82.90%

83.44%

Impairment of accounts receivable recorded in the income

statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4)

(5)

11

There is no customer that individually represents over 10% of accounts receivable or revenues.

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

Accounting policy

Accounts receivable are financial instruments classified in the category loan and receivables and are the
total amount due from sale of products and services rendered by the Company. Accounts receivable are
initially  recognized  at  fair  value  and  subsequently  measured  at  amortized  cost,  less  provision  for
impairment of accounts receivable, when applicable.

F-33
F-33

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

10. Accounts receivable (Continued)

Commercial credit risk management—For the commercial credit exposure, which arises from sales to final
customers,  the  risk  management  area,  in  accordance  with  the  current  delegation  level,  approves  or
request the approval of credit risk limits for each counterparty.

Vale  attributes  an  internal  credit  risk  rating  for  each  counterparty  using  its  own  quantitative
methodology for credit risk analysis, which is based on market prices, external credit ratings and financial
information of the counterparty, as well as qualitative information regarding the counterparty’s strategic
position and history of commercial relations.

Based on the counterparty’s credit risk, risk mitigation strategies may be used to manage the Company‘s
credit risk. The main credit risk mitigation strategies include non-recourse sale of receivables, insurance
instruments, letters of credit, corporate and bank guarantees, mortgages, among others.

Vale has a diversified accounts receivable portfolio from a geographical standpoint, with Asia, Europe and
Brazil the regions with more significant exposures. According to each region, different guarantees can be
used to enhance the credit quality of the receivables.

11.

Inventories

Product inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Work in progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consumable inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,219
648
1,059

3,926

1,573
800
976

3,349

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

In 2017, the Company recognized in the income statement a provision in respect of the net realizable
value of product inventory, in the amount of US$86 (2016: US$199 and 2015: US$518).

Product inventories by segments are presented in note 3(b).

F-34
F-34

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

11.

Inventories (Continued)

Accounting policy

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or the net realizable value. The inventory production cost is
determined on the basis of variable and fixed costs, direct and indirect costs of production, using the
average  cost  method.  At  each  statement  of  financial  position  date,  inventories  are  assessed  for
impairment  and  a  provision  for  losses  on  obsolete  or  slow-moving  inventory  may  be  recognized.  The
write-downs and reversals are included in ‘‘Cost of goods sold and services rendered’’.

12. Recoverable taxes

Recoverable taxes are presented net of provisions for losses on tax credits.

Value-added tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brazilian federal contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

887
880
43

1,810

1,172
638

1,810

724
1,599
29

2,352

1,625
727

2,352

13. Other financial assets and liabilities

December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016

Current

Non-Current

Other financial assets
Financial investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivative financial instruments (note 24) . . . . . . .
Related parties (note 30) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other financial liabilities
Derivative financial instruments (note 24) . . . . . . .
Related parties (note 30) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participative stockholders’ debentures . . . . . . . . . . .

Participative stockholders’ debentures

18
–
106
1,898

2,022

104
270
–

374

18
–
274
–

292

414
353
–

767

–
151
453
2,628

3,232

686
975
1,233

2,894

–
180
446
–

626

1,225
87
775

2,087

At the time of its privatization in 1997, Vale issued debentures to then-existing stockholders, including the
Brazilian  Government.  The  debentures’  terms  were  set  to  ensure  that  pre-privatization  stockholders
would participate in potential future benefits that might be obtained from exploiting mineral resources.

F-35
F-35

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

13. Other financial assets and liabilities (Continued)

A total of 388,559,056 debentures were issued with a par value of R$0.01 (one cent of Brazilian Real) and
are inflation-indexed to the General Market Price Index (‘‘IGP-M’’), as set forth in the Issue Deed. The
Company  paid  as  remuneration  the  amount  of  US$135  and  US$84,  respectively,  for  the  year  ended
December 31, 2017 and 2016.

14. Non-current assets and liabilities held for sale and discontinued operations

Assets
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property, plant and equipment and Intangible . . . . . . . . .
Other non-current assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities
Suppliers and contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net non-current assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

a) Fertilizers (Discontinued operations)

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Fertilizers

Fertilizers

Nacala

Shipping assets

Total

90
460
110
83
2,149
695

3,587

324
215
640

1,179

2,408

86
387
107
90
2,694
679

4,043

280
192
559

1,031

3,012

6
2
114
–
4,064
3

4,189

41
13
5

59

–
–
–
–
357
–

357

–
–
–

–

4,130

357

92
389
221
90
7,115
682

8,589

321
205
564

1,090

7,499

In December 2016, the Company entered into an agreement with The Mosaic Company (‘‘Mosaic’’) to sell
(i) the phosphate assets located in Brazil, except for the assets located in Cubat ˜ao, Brazil; (ii) the control of
Compa ˜nia Minera Miski Mayo S.A.C., in Peru; (iii) the potassium assets located in Brazil; and (iv) the potash
projects in Canada. Originally, the agreed amount was US$2,500, of which US$1,250 would be paid in cash
and  the  remaining  consideration  would  be  settled  with  42.3  million  common  shares  to  be  issued  by
Mosaic.

In  January  2018  (subsequent  event),  the  Company  and  Mosaic  concluded  the  transaction,  which  was
preceded  by  final  adjustments  agreed  by  the  parties  under  the  original  terms  and  conditions  of  the
negotiation.  As  consequence  of  these  adjustments,  the  consideration  has  changed  and  the  Company
received US$1,080 in cash and 34.2 million common shares, corresponding to 8.9% of Mosaic’s equity after
the issuance of these shares (US$877, based on the Mosaic’s quotation at closing date of the transaction).

Fertilizer’s net assets were adjusted to reflect fair value less cost to sell and a loss of US$729 (US$1,738 in
2016) was recognized in the income statement from discontinued operations.

F-36
F-36

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

14. Non-current assets and liabilities held for sale and discontinued operations
(Continued)

b) Cubat ˜ao (part of the fertilizer segment)

In November 2017, the Company entered into an agreement with Yara International ASA (‘‘Yara’’) to sell
its nitrogen assets located in Cubat ˜ao, Brazil. The agreed consideration is US$255 to be paid in cash. The
Company  expects  to  complete  the  transaction  by  the  end  of  2018,  subject  to  compliance  with  usual
precedent  conditions,  including  approval  by  the  Brazilian  anti-trust  authority  (‘‘CADE’’)  and  other
authorities.

These assets were adjusted to reflect fair value less cost to sell and a loss of US$156 was recognized in the
income statement from discontinued operations.

The  results  for  the  years  and  the  cash  flows  of  discontinued  operations  of  the  Fertilizer  segment  are
presented as follows:

Discontinued operations
Net operating revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of goods sold and services rendered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial Results, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Loss before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Loss from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Loss attributable to Vale’s stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

1,746
(1,605)
(141)
(885)

(885)
(28)
(2)

(915)
102

(813)
(7)

(806)

1,875
(1,887)
(130)
(1,738)

(1,880)
20
3

(1,857)
630

(1,227)
2

(1,229)

2,225
(1,762)
(206)
(157)

100
(147)
6

(41)
(149)

(190)
10

(200)

F-37
F-37

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

14. Non-current assets and liabilities held for sale and discontinued operations
(Continued)

Discontinued operations
Cash flow from operating activities
Loss before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustments:
Equity results in associates and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and depletion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Increase (decrease) in assets and liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash flow from investing activities
Additions to property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash used in investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash flow from financing activities
Loans and borrowings
Repayments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash used in financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash provided (used) in discontinued operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accounting policy

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

(915)

(1,857)

2
1
885
–
114

87

(305)
–

(305)

(34)

(34)

(252)

(3)
347
1,738
(20)
(25)

180

(292)
11

(281)

(17)

(17)

(118)

(41)

(6)
310
157
148
(9)

559

(257)
(89)

(346)

(73)

(73)

140

A non-current asset is classified as held for sale if its carrying amount will be recovered principally through
a sale transaction rather than through continuing use.

The criteria for recognition the non-current assets as held for sale are only considered satisfied when the
sale is highly probable and the asset (or disposal group of assets) is available for immediate sale in its
present condition.

The Company measures the assets held for sale (or group of assets) at the lower of its carrying amount and
fair value less costs to sell. If the carrying amount exceeds the fair value less costs to sell an impairment loss
is recognized against income statement. Any subsequent reversal of impairment is recognized only to the
extent of the loss previously recognized.

The assets and liabilities classified as held for sale are presented separately in the statement of financial
position.

The classification as a discontinued operation occurs through disposal, or when the operation meets the
criteria to be classified as held for sale if this occurs earlier. A discontinued operation is a component of a

F-38
F-38

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

14. Non-current assets and liabilities held for sale and discontinued operations
(Continued)

Company business comprising cash flows and operations that may be clearly distinct from the rest of the
Company and that represents an important separate line of business or geographical area of operations.

The result of discontinued operations is presented in a single amount in the income statement, including
the  results  after  income  tax  of  these  operations  less  any  impairment  loss.  Cash  flows  attributable  to
operating, investing and financing activities of discontinued operations are disclosed in a separate note.

When an operation is classified as a discontinued operation, the income statements of the prior periods
are restated as if the operation had been discontinued since the beginning of the comparative period.

Any noncontrolling interest relating to a group disposal held for sale is presented in the stockholders’
equity and are not reclassified in the statement of financial position.

15.

Investments in associates and joint ventures

The material non-consolidated entities of the Company are as follows:

Location activity/Business % Ownership % Voting capital

Main

% Noncontrolling
interest

Joint ventures
Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao de Energia S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Companhia Coreano-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao .
Companhia Hispano-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao . .
Companhia ´Italo-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao . . . . . .
Companhia Nipo-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao . . . . .
Companhia Sider ´urgica do Pec ´em (‘‘CSP’’) . . . . . .
MRS Log´ıstica S.A.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nacala Corridor Holding Netherlands B.V.
Samarco Minera¸c ˜ao S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Brazil
Brazil
Brazil
Brazil
Brazil
Brazil
Brazil
. . . . . Netherlands
Brazil

Direct and indirect associates
Henan Longyu Energy Resources Co., Ltd.
VLI S.A.

. . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

China
Brazil

Energy
Pellets
Pellets
Pellets
Pellets
Steel
Logistics
Coal
Pellets

Coal
Logistics

55.0%
50.0%
50.9%
50.9%
51.0%
50.0%
48.2%
50.0%
50.0%

25.0%
37.6%

55.0%
50.0%
51.0%
51.0%
51.1%
50.0%
46.8%
50.0%
50.0%

25.0%
37.6%

45.0%
50.0%
49.1%
49.1%
49.0%
50.0%
51.8%
50.0%
50.0%

75.0%
62.4%

F-39
F-39

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

15.

Investments in associates and joint ventures (Continued)

a) Changes during the year

Changes in investments in associates and joint ventures as follows:

Associates Joint ventures

Total Associates Joint ventures

2017

2016

Total

Balance at January 1st, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,437

2,259

3,696

1,323

1,617

2,940

Additions(i) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disposals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results in income statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity results in statement of comprehensive income . . . . .
Dividends declared(ii) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer to held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1
–
(2)
57
–
–
(57)
–
5

92
–
(28)
41
–
(152)
(226)
–
141

93
–
(30)
98
–
(152)
(283)
–
146

1
(7)
175
69
3
–
(37)
(90)
–

238
–
338
240
–
–
(165)
–
(9)

239
(7)
513
309
3
–
(202)
(90)
(9)

Balance at December 31, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,441

2,127

3,568

1,437

2,259

3,696

(i)

(ii)

Refers to the Coal and Other segments in the amounts of US$75 and US$18, respectively, on December 31, 2017 and US$187 and
US$52, respectively, on December 31, 2016.
In 2017, the Company received dividends in the amount of US$227, of which US$179 were declared during 2017.

The investments by segments are presented in note 3(b).

b) Acquisitions and divestiture

2017

Nacala Logistic Corridor—In December 2014 and as amended in November 2016, the Company signed an
agreement  with  Mitsui  &  Co.,  Ltd.  (‘‘Mitsui’’)  to  transfer  50%  of  its  stake  of  66.7%  in  Nacala  Logistic
Corridor, which comprises entities that holds railroads and port concessions located in Mozambique and
Malawi. Also, Mitsui committed to acquire 15% participation in the holding entity of Vale Mo¸cambique,
which holds the Moatize Coal Project.

In March 2017, the transaction was concluded and Vale received a consideration of US$690. After the
completion of the transaction, the Company (i) holds 81% of Vale Mo¸cambique and retains the control of
the Moatize Coal Project and (ii) shares control of the Nacala Logistic Corridor structure (Nacala BV), with
Mitsui.

As a consequence of sharing control of Nacala BV, the Company:

(i) derecognized the assets and liabilities classified as held for sale in the total amount of US$4,144, from
which US$4,063 refers to property, plant and equipment and intangibles;

(ii) derecognized US$14 related to cash and cash equivalents;

F-40
F-40

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

15.

Investments in associates and joint ventures (Continued)

(iii) recognized a gain of US$447 in the income statement related to the sale and the re-measurement at
fair value, of its remaining interest at Nacala BV based on the consideration received;

(iv) reclassified the gain related to the cumulative translation adjustments on to income statements in the
amount of US$11;

The result of the transaction regarding the assets from Nacala’s logistic corridor was recognized in the
income statement as ‘‘Impairment and other results on non-current assets’’.

The results of the transaction with the coal holding entity was recognized in ‘‘Results from operation with
noncontrolling interest’’ in the amount of US$105, directly in Stockholders’ Equity.

The consideration received was recognized in the statement of cash flows in ‘‘Proceeds from disposal of
assets and investments’’ in the amount of US$435 and ‘‘Transactions with noncontrolling stockholders’’ in
the amount of US$255.

After the conclusion of the transaction, Vale has outstanding loan balances with Nacala BV and Pangea
Emirates Ltd due to the deconsolidation of Nacala Logistic Corridor, the balances as at December 31, 2017
are disclosed in note 30(b). In November 2017, Nacala B. V. signed financing contracts in the form of a
project finance in order to receive US$2.7 billion contracted that will be used to settle a portion of the
loan  with  the  Company.  The  receipt  of  the  proceeds  is  subject  to  precedent  conditions  for  a  project
finance.

2016

Thyssenkrupp Companhia Sider ´urgica do Atl ˆantico Ltd (‘‘CSA’’)—In April 2016, the Company sold 100% of
its interest at CSA (26.87%) for a non-significant amount. The transaction resulted in a loss of US$75 due
to  recycling  the  ‘‘Cumulative  translation  adjustments’’  recognized  in  the  income  statement  as
‘‘Impairment and others results in associates and joint ventures’’.

2015

Energy generation assets—In December 2013, the Company signed agreements with CEMIG Gera¸c ˜ao e
Transmiss ˜ao S.A. (‘‘CEMIG GT’’) to incorporate two joint ventures, Alian¸ca Norte Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. and
Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao de Energia S.A and exchange of assets and shares. The transaction was completed in the
first quarter of 2015, in which Vale received cash proceeds of US$97 and recognized a gain of US$18 as
‘‘Impairment and others results in associates and joint ventures’’ and a gain of US$193 as ‘‘Impairment and
others results of non-current assets’’.

Shandong Yankuang International Coking Co., Ltd. (‘‘Yankuang’’)—In 2015, the Company completed the
sale 100% of its interest at Yankuang, a producer of coking coal, methanol and other products. In this
transaction, Vale recognized a gain of US$79 as ‘‘Impairment and others results in associates and joint
ventures’’.

F-41
F-41

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)
Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

15.

Investments in associates and joint ventures (Continued)

% ownership

% voting
capital

December 31,
2017

December 31,
2016

Investments in associates and joint ventures

Equity results in the income statement
Year ended December 31

Dividends received
Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

2017

2016

2015

Associates and joint ventures

Ferrous minerals
Baovale Minera¸c ˜ao S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Companhia Coreano-Brasileira de

Pelotiza¸c ˜ao . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Companhia Hispano-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao. . .
Companhia ´Italo-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao . . . .
Companhia Nipo-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao . . .
MRS Log´ıstica S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Samarco Minera¸c ˜ao S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VLI S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Zhuhai YPM Pellet Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F
F
-
-
4
4
2
2

50.00

50.00

50.00
50.89
50.90
51.00
48.16
50.00
37.60
25.00

50.00
51.00
51.00
51.11
46.75
50.00
37.60
25.00

26

89
82
80
137
517
–
968
23
–

26

68
59
69
108
488
–
969
21
–

7

50
41
40
93
69
–
29
–
–

9

17
15
16
29
57
–
36
–
–

1,922

1,808

329

179

Coal
Henan Longyu Energy Resources Co., Ltd. . . . .

25.00

25.00

Base metals
Korea Nickel Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Teal Minerals Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Others
Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao de Energia S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alian¸ca Norte Energia Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. . . . . .
California Steel Industries, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Companhia Sider ´urgica do Pec ´em . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minera¸c ˜ao Rio Grande do Norte S.A. . . . . . . . . .
Thyssenkrupp Companhia Sider ´urgica do

Atl ˆantico Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

25.00
50.00

25.00
50.00

55.00
51.00
50.00
50.00
40.00

55.00
51.00
50.00
50.00
40.00

–

–

317

317

13
–

13

571
160
200
262
101

–
22

1,316

3,568

285

285

12
–

12

582
148
185
527
129

–
20

1,591

3,696

20

20

1
–

1

27
(2)
42
(264)
13

–
(68)

(252)

98

(4)

(4)

(1)
(3)

(4)

46
(6)
33
25
48

–
(8)

138

309

–

25
14
21
46
43
(167)
46
–
(2)

26

(3)

(3)

(3)
(129)

(132)

50
1
(27)
(307)
40

(80)
(13)

(336)

(445)

1

19
16
17
29
29
–
19
–
–

–

26
27
9
41
10
–
–
–
–

130

113

–

–

4
–

4

39
–
4
–
32

–
1

–

–

–
–

–

29
–
27
–
41

–
–

97

227

–

19
16
14
30
22
146
8
–
–

255

28

28

–
–

–

30
–
–
–
3

–
2

76

193

35

318

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

15.

Investments in associates and joint ventures (Continued)

c) Summarized financial information

The summarized financial information about relevant associates and joint-ventures for the Company are
as follows:

Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao
de Energia

CSP

Pelletizing(i)

MRS
Log´ıstica

Henan
Longyu

VLI S.A.

December 31, 2017

Joint ventures

Associates

Current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

137
1,200

759
3,712

1,337

4,471

86
213

299

1,060
2,887

3,947

Stockholders’equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,038

524

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

49

(528)

760
310

1,070

301
5

306

764

442

309
2,063

2,372

454
844

1,298

1,074

143

1,072
422

1,494

226
–

226

1,268

79

738
4,170

4,908

537
1,799

2,336

2,574

77

December 31, 2016

Joint ventures

Associates

Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao
de Energia

CSP

Pelletizing(i)

MRS
Log´ıstica

Henan
Longyu

VLI S.A.

Current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

115
1,208

743
3,809

1,323

4,552

165
100

265

664
2,835

3,499

Stockholders’equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,058

1,053

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

84

49

392
318

710

109
3

112

598

152

233
2,091

2,324

433
877

1,310

1,014

118

903
456

1,359

200
19

219

1,140

389
4,169

4,558

677
1,304

1,981

2,577

(17)

95

(i)

Aggregate  entity  information:  Companhia  Coreano-Brasileira  de  Pelotiza¸c ˜ao,  Companhia  Hispano-Brasileira  de  Pelotiza¸c ˜ao,
Companhia ´Italo-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao, Companhia Nipo-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao.

The stand-alone financial information may differ from the financial information reported herein, since
they  may  be  adjusted,  when  necessary  to  Vale’s  accounting  policies  including  eventual  goodwill,
provisional price adjustment, etc.

Accounting policy

Joint arrangements investments—Joint arrangements are all entities over which the Company has shared
control with one or more parties. Joint arrangement investments are classified as either joint operations
or joint ventures depending on the contractual rights and obligations of each investor.

F-43
F-43

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

15.

Investments in associates and joint ventures (Continued)

The  joint  operations  are  recorded  in  the  financial  statements  to  represent  the  Company’s  contractual
rights and obligations. The Company does not have material joint operations.

Interests in joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method, after initially being recognized at
cost. The Company’s investment in joint ventures includes the goodwill identified in the acquisition, net of
any accumulated impairment loss.

The Company’s interest in the profits or losses of its joint ventures is recognized in the income statement
and participation in the changes in reserves is recognized in the Company’s reserves. When the Company’s
interest in the losses of an associate or joint venture is equal to or greater than the carrying amount of the
investment, including any other receivables, the Company does not recognize additional losses, unless it
has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the joint venture.

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

Judgment is required in some circumstances to determine whether after considering all relevant factors,
the  Company  has  control,  joint  control  or  significant  influence  over  an  entity.  Significant  influence
includes situations of collective control.

The Company holds the majority of the voting capital in five joint arrangements (Alian¸ca Gera¸c ˜ao de
Energia  S.A.,  Alian¸ca  Norte  Energia  Participa¸c ˜oes  S.A.,  Companhia  Hispano-Brasileira  de  Pelotiza¸c ˜ao,
Companhia  ´Italo-Brasileira  de  Pelotiza¸c ˜ao  and  Companhia  Nipo-Brasileira  de  Pelotiza¸c ˜ao),  but
management have concluded that the Company does not have a sufficiently dominant voting interest to
have the power to direct the activities of the entity. As a result, these entities are accounted under equity
method due to shareholder’s agreements where relevant decisions are shared with other parties.

F-44
F-44

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

16. Noncontrolling interest

a) Summarized financial information

The  summarized  financial  information,  prior  to  the  eliminations  of  the  intercompany  balances  and
transactions, about subsidiaries with material noncontrolling interest are as follows:

December 31, 2017

Compa ˜nia
Vale Mineradora
Mo¸cambique Miski Mayo

MBR

PTVI

VNC

S.A.

S.A.C.(i) Others(ii) Total

Current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
251
Non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,041 1,586 2,046
115
Related parties—Stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

591

408

394

147

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,040 2,127 2,412

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties—Stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

170
288
226

684

128
237

142
202
3 1,318

368 1,682

Stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,356 1,759

730

Equity attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,342

735

37

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . .

434

174

(15)

(572)

(6)

(28)

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

113

–

–

Discontinued operations

(i)
(ii) Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests relates to Vale Oman Pelletizing

381
1,653
253

2,287

128
32
8,232

8,392

(6,105)

(1,101)

(659)

(104)

–

78
436
6

520

36
97
9

142

380

228

(11)

(6)

–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

–

73 1,314

–

(16)

13

14

–

F-45
F-45

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

16. Noncontrolling interest (Continued)

December 31, 2016

Compa ˜nia
Vale Mineradora
Mo¸cambique Miski Mayo

MBR

PTVI

VNC

S.A.

S.A.C.(i) Others Total

Current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
383
Non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,182 1,668 2,101
79
Related parties—Stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

132

444

551

32

Total assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,765 2,244 2,563

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties—Stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

106
198
37

341

139
261

124
177
6 1,055

406 1,356

386
1,796
358

2,540

95
29
7,861

7,985

Stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,424 1,838 1,207

(5,445)

Equity attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,406

741

40

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . .

400

165

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

262

2

1

–

(807)

(40)

–

(272)

(541)

(27)

–

94
429
13

536

35
99
11

145

391

235

3

2

28

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

–

(168) 1,982

–

(107)

–

–

(6)

–

December 31, 2015

Compa ˜nia
Vale Mineradora
Mo¸cambique Miski Mayo

MBR PTVI

VNC

S.A.

S.A.C.(i) Others

Total

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

250

36 (1,916)

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests. . . . . . . . . .

66

15

(373)

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–

–

–

(3,766)

(188)

–

16

10

40

–

–

(21)

(491)

–

–

(i)

Discontinued operation

The stand-alone financial information may differ from the financial information reported herein, since
they  may  be  adjusted,  when  necessary  to  Vale’s  accounting  policies  including  eventual  goodwill,
provisional price adjustment, etc.

b) Acquisitions and divestments

In  March  2017,  the  Company  concluded  the  transaction  with  Mitsui  to  sell  15%  of  its  stake  in  Vale
Mo¸cambique  and  50%  of  its  stake  in  the  Nacala  Logistics  Corridor.  After  the  completion  of  the
transaction,  the  Company  holds  81%  of  Vale  Mo¸cambique  and  shares  control  of  the  Nacala  Logistic
Corridor with Mitsui. Further details are disclosed in note 15.

F-46
F-46

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

17.

Intangibles

Changes in intangibles are as follows:

Goodwill

Concessions

Right of use

Software

Total

Balance at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,956

Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disposals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of discontinued operations (note 14) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of discontinued operations
Transfer to net assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disposals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Merger of Valepar (note 29) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–
–
–
(30)
188
–

(33)

3,081

3,081
–

3,081

–
–
–
65
964
–

4,110

4,110
–

4,110

1,814

1,100
(12)
(248)
–
570
77

–

3,301

4,467
(1,166)

3,301

980
(9)
(209)
(79)
–
18

4,002

5,075
(1,073)

4,002

207

1
–
(2)
–
9
(68)

–

147

222
(75)

147

–
–
(2)
7
–
–

152

241
(89)

152

347

5,324

13
–
(153)
–
61
74

1,114
(12)
(403)
(30)
828
83

–

(33)

342

6,871

1,570
(1,228)

9,340
(2,469)

342

6,871

26
–
(142)
3
–
–

1,006
(9)
(353)
(4)
964
18

229

8,493

1,554
(1,325)

10,980
(2,487)

229

8,493

a)  Goodwill—The  goodwill  arose  from  the  acquisition  of  iron  ore  and  nickel  businesses.  In  2017,  the
goodwill was recognized on the acquisition of Vale controlling interest by Valepar, based on the expected
future returns on the ferrous segment. As the fundamentals are still valid on the date of the merger of
Valepar by Vale, the goodwill was fully recognized. The Company has not recognized the deferred taxes
over  the  goodwill,  since  there  are  no  differences  between  the  tax  basis  and  accounting  basis.  The
Company assess periodically the recoverable amount of the goodwill.

b) Concessions—The concessions refer to the agreements with governments for the exploration and the
development of ports and railways. The Company holds railway concessions which are valid over a certain
period of time. Those assets are classified as intangible assets and amortized over the shorter of their
useful lives and the concession term at the end of which they will be returned to the government.

c) Right of use—Refers to intangible identified in the business combination of Vale Canada Limited (‘‘Vale
Canada’’) and to the usufruct contract between the Company and noncontrolling stockholders to use the
shares of Empreendimentos Brasileiros de Minera¸c ˜ao S.A. (owner of Minera¸c ˜oes Brasileiras Reunidas S.A.
shares). The amortization of the right of use will expire in 2037 and Vale Canada’s intangible will end in
September of 2046.

F-47
F-47

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

17.

Intangibles (Continued)

Accounting policy

Intangibles are carried at the acquisition cost, net of accumulated amortization and impairment charges.

The estimated useful lives are as follows:

Concessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Right of use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3 to 50 years
22 to 31 years
5 years

Useful life

18. Property, plant and equipment

Changes in property, plant and equipment are as follows:

Balance at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

766

9,101

8,292

7,307

10,304

7,206

11,126

54,102

Land Building Facilities Equipment properties Others

Mineral

Constructions
in progress

Total

Additions(i) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disposals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets retirement obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and depletion . . . . . .
Transfers to non-current assets held for sale . . . .
Impairment (note 19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of discontinued operations

(note 14) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of discontinued operations
Transfer to net assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Additions(i) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disposals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets retirement obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation, amortization and depletion . . . . . .
Impairment (note 19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(i)

Includes capitalized borrowing costs.

–
(1)
–
–
–
(1)

–
(8)
–
(517)
–
(448)

(53)
111
26

–
702
2,177

–
(9)
–
(705)
–
(175)

(65)
960
1,253

–
(19)
–
(906)
–
(110)

–
639
978

–
(125)
311
(795)
–
(165)

–
(384)
–
(631)
(497)
(88)

(1,590)
748
230

–
861
1,110

5,240
(20)
–
–
–
70

5,240
(566)
311
(3,554)
(497)
(917)

–
1,731
(5,857)

(1,708)
5,752
(83)

(124)

(333)

(80)

(1,095)

(538)

(62)

(429)

(2,661)

724

724
–

724

–
–
–
–
(20)
79
(65)

718

718
–

718

10,674

9,471

6,794

8,380

7,515

11,861

55,419

16,678
(6,004)

15,664
(6,193)

11,953
(5,159)

16,066 11,319
(3,804)
(7,686)

11,861

84,265
– (28,846)

10,674

9,471

6,794

8,380

7,515

11,861

55,419

–
(11)
–
(587)
–
(122)
2,146

–
(57)
–
(736)
–
(105)
3,213

12,100

11,786

–
(67)
–
(814)
(34)
(83)
1,097

6,893

–
(138)
425
(618)
(131)
222
929

–
(212)
–
(754)
–
47
1,597

3,392
(151)
–
–
(86)
38
(8,935)

3,392
(636)
425
(3,509)
(271)
76
(18)

9,069

8,193

6,119

54,878

19,163
(7,063)

18,292
(6,506)

12,840
(5,947)

17,471 12,461
(4,268)
(8,402)

6,119

87,064
– (32,186)

12,100

11,786

6,893

9,069

8,193

6,119

54,878

F-48
F-48

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

18. Property, plant and equipment (Continued)

a) Disposals of assets

In June 2016, Vale approved a plan to dispose of its fleet of eleven ships. As consequence, these assets
were reclassified to non-current assets held for sale and a loss of US$66 was recognized in the income
statement as ‘‘Impairment and other results on non-current assets’’. In the year ended December 31, 2016,
the Company concluded the sale of three Very Large Ore Carriers (‘‘VLOC’s’’) and four Capesize vessels for
US$409.

In the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company concluded the sale of four VLOC’s and two Floating
Transfer  Stations  in  the  amount  of  US$391.  The  Company  recognized  a  loss  of  US$133  in  the  income
statement as ‘‘Impairment and other results on non-current assets’’.

Additionally, in 2017, the Company recognized a loss of US$348 in the income statement as ‘‘Impairment
and  other  results  on  non-current  assets’’  due  to  non-viable  projects  and  operating  assets  written  off
through sale or obsolescence.

Accounting policy

Property, plant and equipment is recorded at the cost of acquisition or construction, net of accumulated
depreciation and impairment charges.

Mineral properties developed internally are determined by (i) direct and indirect costs attributed to build
the mining facilities, (ii) financial charges incurred during the construction period, (iii) depreciation of
other fixed assets used during construction, (iv) estimated decommissioning and site restoration expenses,
and  (v)  other  capitalized  expenditures  during  the  development  phase  (phase  when  the  project
demonstrates  its  economic  benefit  to  the  Company,  and  the  Company  has  ability  and  intention  to
complete the project).

The  depletion  of  mineral  properties  is  determined  based  on  the  ratio  between  production  and  total
proven and probable mineral reserves.

Property,  plant  and  equipment,  other  than  mineral  properties  are  depreciated  using  the  straight-line
method based on the estimated useful lives, from the date on which the assets become available for their
intended use and are capitalized, except for land which is not depreciated.

F-49
F-49

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

18. Property, plant and equipment (Continued)

The estimated useful lives are as follows:

Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others:
Locomotives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wagon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Railway equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Useful life

15 to 50 years
3 to 50 years
3 to 40 years

12 to 25 years
30 to 44 years
5 to 33 years
20 years
2 to 50 years

The  residual  values  and  useful  lives  of  assets  are  reviewed  at  the  end  of  each  reporting  period  and
adjusted if necessary.

a) Mineral reserves

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

The estimates of proven and probable reserves are regularly evaluated and updated. These reserves are
determined  using  generally  accepted  geological  estimates.  The  calculation  of  reserves  requires  the
Company to make assumptions about expected future conditions that are uncertain, including future ore
prices, exchange rates, inflation rates, mining technology, availability of permits and production costs.
Changes  in  assumptions  could  have  a  significant  impact  on  the  proven  and  probable  reserves  of  the
Company.

The estimated volume of mineral reserves is used as basis for the calculation of depletion of the mineral
properties, and also for the estimated useful life which is a major factor to quantify the provision for asset
retirement obligation, environmental recovery of mines and impairment of long lived asset. Any changes
to the estimates of the volume of mine reserves and the useful lives of assets may have a significant impact
on the depreciation, depletion and amortization charges and assessments of impairment.

b) Expenditures and stripping costs

(i) Exploration  and  evaluation  expenditures—Expenditures  on  mining  research  are  accounted  for  as
operating expenses until the effective proof of economic feasibility and commercial viability of a given
field can be demonstrated. From then on, the expenditures incurred are capitalized as mineral properties.

(ii) Expenditures  on  feasibility  studies,  new  technologies  and  others  research—The  Company  also
conducts feasibility studies for many businesses which it operates including researching new technologies
to optimize the mining process. After these costs are proven to generate future benefits to the Company,
the expenditures incurred are capitalized.

F-50
F-50

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

18. Property, plant and equipment (Continued)

(iii) Maintenance  costs—Significant  industrial  maintenance  costs,  including  spare  parts,  assembly
services, and others, are recorded in property, plant and equipment and depreciated through the next
programmed maintenance overhaul.

(iv) Stripping  Costs—The  cost  associated  with  the  removal  of  overburden  and  other  waste  materials
(‘‘stripping  costs’’)  incurred  during  the  development  of  mines,  before  production  takes  place,  are
capitalized  as  part  of  the  depreciable  cost  of  the  mineral  properties.  These  costs  are  subsequently
amortized over the useful life of the mine.

Post-production  stripping  costs  are  included  in  the  cost  of  inventory,  except  when  a  new  project  is
developed  to  permit  access  to  a  significant  ore  deposits.  In  such  cases,  the  cost  is  capitalized  as  a
non-current asset and is amortized during the extraction of the ore deposits, over the useful life of the ore
deposits.

Stripping costs are measured at fixed and variable costs directly and indirectly attributable to its removal
and, when applicable, net of any impairment losses measured in the same basis adopted for the cash
generating unit of which it belongs.

19.

Impairment and onerous contracts

The impairment losses (reversals) recognized in the year are presented below:

Segments by class of assets

Assets or cash-generating unit

Property, plant and equipment and intangible
Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . North system
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Australia
Base metals—nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals—nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Newfoundland (VNL)
Base metals—nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nouvelle Caledonie (VNC)
Base metals—nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . On¸ca Puma
Coal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mozambique
Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Midwest system
Several segments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other assets

Stobie

Impairment of non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Onerous contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Impairment of non-current assets and onerous

contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Investments in associates and joint ventures
Iron ore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Base metals—Copper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Samarco Minera¸c ˜ao S.A.
Teal Minerals Inc.

Impairment of investments in associates and

joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income statement

Impairment (reversals)

2017

2016

2015

–
–
133
–
–
–
–
–
138

271
–

(160)
27
–
631
284
–
–
–
135

917
257

55
635
–
3,460
1,462
(252)
2,403
522
127

8,412
357

271

1,174

8,769

–

–

–
–

–

132
314

446

F-51
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

19.

Impairment and onerous contracts (Continued)

a) Impairment of non-financial assets

The Company has carried out an impairment test for the assets that a triggering event was identified. The
recoverable amount is assessed by reference to the higher of value in use (‘‘VIU’’) and fair value less costs
of disposal (‘‘FVLCD’’).

The  recoverable  amount  of  each  Cash  Generating  Units  (‘‘CGU’’)  under  the  impairment  testing  was
assessed using FVLCD model, through discounted cash flow techniques, which is classified as ‘‘level 3’’ in
the fair value hierarchy.

The cash flows were discounted using a post-tax discount rate ranging from 6% to 9%, which represents
an estimate of the rate that a market participant would apply having regard to the time value of money
and the risks specific to the asset. The Company used its weighted average cost of capital (‘‘WACC’’) as a
starting point for determining the discount rates, with appropriate adjustments for the risk profile of the
countries in which the individual CGU operate.

Iron ore and pellets—During 2017, the Company did not identify any changes in the circumstances or
indicators that would require reassessment of the carrying amount of the iron ore and pellets CGUs.

Of  the  total  goodwill  (note  17),  US$2,157  is  allocated  to  the  group  of  ferrous  mineral  CGUs.  The
impairment analysis based on FVLCD model demonstrates that there were no impairment loss in relation
to the individual CGUs or goodwill.

In 2016, based on the market circumstances, the Company decided to resume Norte’s system pelletizing
plant,  based  on  the  studies  carried  out  by  management  that  demonstrates  its  economic  feasibility.
Accordingly, the Company reversed the full impairments of US$160 recorded in 2013 and 2015.

In 2015, the Company recognized an impairment loss of US$522 due to lack of competitiveness in the
Midwest  system  because  of  the  complex  logistic  system  associated  with  the  decline  in  iron  ore  prices.
Accordingly, long-lived assets were fully impaired.

Coal—Based  on  the  2017  impairment  triggering  assessment,  the  Company  has  identified  trigger  of
impairment in the Mozambique CGU, driven by a reduction in the proven and probable reserves due to a
geological  revision  undertaken  by  Management  in  the  last  quarter  of  2017.  However,  coal  price
projections  have  increased,  triggering  a  discussion  around  impairment  reversal  review.  The  Company
carried out an impairment test based on FVLCD model and concluded that there were no changes in the
impairment previously recognized.

In 2016, the future mining plans of the coal assets in Australia were revised and an impairment loss of
US$27 was recognized in the income statement (US$635 in 2015).

F-52
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

19.

Impairment and onerous contracts (Continued)

In 2015, due to a reduction in the estimated future coal prices, at that point in time, associated with an
increase in the logistics costs, the Company recognized an impairment loss of US$2,403 in relation to the
coal asset in Mozambique.

Nickel—Based  on  the  2017  impairment  trigger  assessment,  the  Company  has  identified  impairment
indicators in the nickel CGUs, driven by a decrease in the nickel long-term price projections. The Company
carried out an impairment test based on FVLCD model and concluded that there were no changes in the
impairment previously recognized.

Except for an underground mine in Sudbury that was affected by seismic activities and the cost to repair
the asset is deemed not recoverable in the current market conditions. Therefore, the Company has placed
this  asset  on  ‘‘care  and  maintenance’’  and  an  impairment  of  US$133  was  recognized  in  the  income
statement.

Of  the  total  goodwill  (note  17),  US$1,953  is  allocated  to  the  group  of  nickel  CGUs.  The  impairment
analysis  based  on  FVLCD  model  demonstrates  that  there  were  no  impairment  loss  in  relation  to  the
individual CGUs or goodwill.

In  2016,  the  decrease  in  long  term  nickel  price  projections,  that  significantly  reduced  the  recoverable
amounts of the VNL and VNC CGUs, associated with significant capital investments in new processing
facilities  in  recent  years,  resulted  in  impairment  losses  of  US$631  and  US$284  (2015—US$3,460  and
US$1,462), respectively.

b) Onerous contract

In 2016, the Company recognized a provision of US$257 (US$357 in 2015) for the costs in respect of certain
long-term contracts in the Midwest system for fluvial transportation and port structure, with minimum
guaranteed volume.

c) Impairment of investments in associates and joint ventures

In 2015, the Company recognized an impairment of US$132 in its investment in Samarco (note 21) and
US$314 in Teal Minerals Inc. (‘‘Teal’’).Teal recognized an impairment of property, plant and equipment due
to the revision of future mining plans and the decrease of the copper price.

Accounting policy

Impairment of non-Financial assets—Non-financial assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events
or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount might not be recoverable. An impairment
loss is recognized for the amount by which the asset´s carrying value exceeds its recoverable amount. The
recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal (‘‘FVLCD’’) and value in use
(‘‘VIU’’).

F-53
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

19.

Impairment and onerous contracts (Continued)

FVLCD is generally determined as the present value of the estimated future cash flows expected to arise
from  the  continued  use  of  the  asset  from  a  market  participant’s  perspective,  including  any  expansion
prospects. VIU model is determined as the present value of the estimated future cash flows expected to
arise  from  the  continued  use  of  the  asset  in  its  present  form.  Value  in  use  is  determined  by  applying
assumptions specific to the Company’s continued use and cannot take into account future development.
These  assumptions  are  different  to  those  used  in  calculating  fair  value  and  consequently  the  VIU
calculation is likely to give a different result to a FVLCD calculation.

Assets that have indefinite useful life and are not subject to amortization, such as goodwill, are tested
annually for impairment.

For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are
separately  identifiable  cash  flows  (Cash  Generating  Units  (CGUs)).  Goodwill  is  allocated  to  Cash
Generating  Units  or  Cash  Generating  Units  groups  that  are  expected  to  benefit  from  the  business
combinations in which the goodwill arose and are identified in accordance with the operating segment.

Non-current assets (excluding goodwill) in which the Company recognized impairment in the past are
reviewed whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the impairment may no longer be
applicable. In such cases, an impairment reversal will be recognized.

Onerous Contracts—For certain long-term contracts, a provision is recognized when the present value of
the  unavoidable  cost  to  meet  the  Company’s  obligation  exceeds  the  economic  benefits  that  could  be
received from those contracts.

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

The Company determines its cash flows based on the budgets approved by management, which require
the use of the following assumptions: (i) mineral reserves and mineral resources measured by internal
experts;  (ii)  costs  and  investments  based  on  the  best  estimate  of  projects  as  supported  by  past
performance;  (iii)  sale  prices  consistent  with  projections  available  in  reports  published  by  industry
considering the market price when appropriate; (iv) the life of each cash-generating unit (ratio between
production and mineral reserves); and (v) discount rates that reflect specific risks relating to the relevant
assets in each cash-generating unit. These assumptions are subject to risk and uncertainty. Hence, there is
a possibility that changes in circumstances will change these projections, which may affect the recoverable
amount of the assets.

F-54
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

20.

Loans, borrowings, cash and cash equivalents and financial investments

a) Net debt

The Company evaluates the net debt with the objective of ensuring the continuity of its business in the
long term, being able to generate value to its stockholders, through the payment of dividends and capital
gain.

Debt contracts in the international markets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt contracts in Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total of loans and borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(-) Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(-) Financial investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net debt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

17,288
5,201

22,489

4,328
18

18,143

21,130
8,192

29,322

4,262
18

25,042

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

b) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents includes cash, immediately redeemable deposits and short-term investments
with  an  insignificant  risk  of  change  in  value.  They  are  readily  convertible  to  cash,  being  US$1,790
denominated  in  R$,  indexed  to  the  Brazilian  Interbank  Interest  rate  (‘‘DI  Rate’’or’’CDI’’),  US$2,395
denominated in US$, mainly time deposits and US$143 denominated in other currencies.

F-55
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

20.

Loans, borrowings, cash and cash equivalents and financial investments (Continued)

c) Loans and borrowings

i) Total debt

Debt contracts in the international

markets

Floating rates in:
US$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
EUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fixed rates in:
US$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
EUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other currencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Debt contracts in Brazil
Floating rates in:
R$, indexed to TJLP, TR, IPCA, IGP-M and
CDI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basket of currencies and US$ indexed to
LIBOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fixed rates in:
R$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

310
–

–
–
17
263

590

447

339

68
259

1,113

1,703

234
–

–
–
17
304

555

402

343

66
294

1,105

1,660

2,764
240

12,588
900
206
–

16,698

3,195

708

173
12

4,088

20,786

5,489
211

13,083
1,583
209
–

20,575

5,621

1,217

216
33

7,087

27,662

The future flows of debt payments principal, per nature of funding and interest are as follows:

Bank loans

Capital markets

Development
agencies

2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Between 2022 and 2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2026 onwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

161
849
983
574
503
87

–
–
831
1,353
3,529
8,585

1,020
901
761
696
950
172

Principal

Total

1,181
1,750
2,575
2,623
4,982
8,844

Estimated
future
interest
payments(i)

1,245
1,149
1,090
945
2,727
5,929

3,157

14,298

4,500

21,955

13,085

(i)

Estimated  future  payments  of  interest,  calculated  based  on  interest  rate  curves  and  foreign  exchange  rates  applicable  as  at
December 31, 2017 and considering that all amortization payments and payments at maturity on loans and borrowings will be
made  on  their  contracted  payments  dates.  The  amount  includes  the  estimated  values  of  future  interest  payments  (not  yet
accrued), in addition to interest already recognized in the financial statements.

F-56
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

20.

Loans, borrowings, cash and cash equivalents and financial investments (Continued)

At December 31, 2017, the average annual interest rates by currency are as follows:

Loans and borrowings

Average
interest rate(i)

Total debt

US$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
R$(ii) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
EUR (iii) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other currencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5.39%
8.14%
3.34%
3.23%

16,940
4,147
1,177
225

22,489

(i)

(ii)

In order to determine the average interest rate for debt contracts with floating rates, the Company used the rate applicable at
December 31, 2017.
R$ denominated debt that bears interest at IPCA, CDI, TR or TJLP, plus spread. For a total of US$2,329 the Company entered into
derivative transactions to mitigate the exposure to the cash flow variations of the floating rate debt denominated in R$, resulting
in an average cost of 1.89% per year in US$.

(iii) Eurobonds, for which the Company entered into derivatives to mitigate the exposure to the cash flow variations of the debt

denominated in EUR, resulting in an average cost of 4.29% per year in US$.

ii) Reconciliation of debt to cash flows arising from financing activities

December 31,

Cash flow

Interest

2016 Additions Repayments

paid Transferences exchange rate accretion

Non-cash changes

Effect of

Interest December 31,
2017

Loans and borrowings
Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,660
27,662

29,322

–
1,976

1,976

(8,998)
–

(1,686)
–

(8,998)

(1,686)

8,971
(8,971)

–

59
119

178

1,697
–

1,697

1,703
20,786

22,489

iii) Credit and financing lines

Type

Credit lines
Revolving credit facilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Revolving credit facilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financing lines
BNDES—CLN 150 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BNDES—S11D e S11D Log´ıstica . . . . . . . . .

Contractual
currency

Date of
agreement

Period of the
agreement

Available amount

Total amount

December 31, 2017

US$
US$

R$
R$

May 2015
June 2017

September 2012
May 2014

5 years
5 years

10 years
10 years

3,000
2,000

1,174
1,863

3,000
2,000

6
307

In June 2017, the Company signed a US$2,000 revolving credit facility, which will be available for five
years, to replace the US$2,000 line that was signed in 2013, which was cancelled. At December 31, 2017,
the total available amount in revolving credit facilities remains at US$5,000.

F-57
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

20.

Loans, borrowings, cash and cash equivalents and financial investments (Continued)

Liquidity risk—The revolving credit facilities available today were acquired from a syndicate of several
global commercial banks. To mitigate such risk, Vale has a revolving credit facilities to assist the short term
liquidity  management  and  to  enable  more  efficiency  in  cash  management,  being  consistent  with  the
strategic focus on cost of capital reduction.

iv) Funding

In February 2017, the Company issued through Vale Overseas Limited guaranteed notes due August 2026
totaling US$1,000. The notes bears 6.250% coupon per year, payable semi-annually, and were sold at a
price of 107.793% of the principal amount. The notes were consolidated with, and formed a single series
with,  Vale  Overseas’s  US$1,000  6.250%  notes  due  2026  issued  on  August,  2016.  Vale  applied  the  net
proceeds from the offering to the early redemption of Vale’s e750 notes (due in March 2018).

In September 2017, the Company redeemed all of its 5.625% guaranteed notes due 2019 issued through
Vale Overseas Limited totaling US$1,000. Additionally, the Company conducted a Tender Offer for the
outstanding 4.625% guaranteed notes due 2020 issued by its subsidiary Vale Overseas Limited. The total
principal amount of 2020 Notes accepted for purchase pursuant to the Tender Offer was US$501 from a
total of US$1,000.

v) Guarantees

As at December 31, 2017 and 2016, loans and borrowings are secured by property, plant and equipment
and receivables in the amount of US$275 and US$472, respectively.

The securities issued through Vale’s 100%-owned finance subsidiary Vale Overseas Limited are fully and
unconditionally guaranteed by Vale.

vi) Covenants

Some of the Company’s debt agreements with lenders contain financial covenants. The primary financial
covenants in those agreements require maintaining certain ratios, such as debt to EBITDA and interest
coverage. The Company has not identified any instances of noncompliance as at December 31, 2017 and
2016.

Accounting policy

Loans  and  borrowings  are  initially  measured  at  fair  value,  net  of  transaction  costs  incurred  and  are
subsequently  carried  at  amortized  cost  and  updated  using  the  effective  interest  rate  method.  Any
difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognized in the
Income statement over the period of the loan, using the effective interest rate method. The fees paid in
obtaining the loan are recognized as transaction costs.

F-58
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

20.

Loans, borrowings, cash and cash equivalents and financial investments (Continued)

Loans and borrowing costs are capitalized as part of property, plants and equipment if those costs are
directly  related  to  a  qualified  asset.  The  capitalization  occurs  until  the  qualified  asset  is  ready  for  its
intended  use.  The  average  capitalization  rate  is  22%.  Borrowing  costs  that  are  not  capitalized  are
recognized in the income statement in the period in which they are incurred.

21.

Liabilities related to associates and joint ventures

In March 2016 Samarco and its shareholders, Vale S.A. and BHP Billiton Brasil Ltda. (‘‘BHPB’’), entered into
an Agreement (‘‘Framework Agreement’’) with the Brazilian federal government, the two Brazilian states
(Esp´ırito Santo and Minas Gerais) and other governmental authorities, in connection with the lawsuit
related to the Samarco dam failure (Note 27), in order to implement the programs for remediation and
compensation of the areas and communities affected.

The Framework Agreement has a 15-year term, renewable for successive one-year periods until all the
obligations under the Framework Agreement have been satisfied.

Under  the  Framework  Agreement,  Samarco,  Vale  S.A.  and  BHPB  have  established  a  foundation
(‘‘Funda¸c ˜ao Renova’’ or ‘‘Foundation’’) to develop and implement social and economic remediation and
compensation,  to  be  funded  by  Samarco.  To  the  extent  that  Samarco  does  not  meet  its  funding
obligations to the foundation, each of Vale S.A. and BHPB will provide, under the terms of the Framework
Agreement, funds to the Foundation in proportion to its 50% equity interest in Samarco.

As the consequence of the dam failure, governmental authorities ordered the suspension of Samarco’s
operations.

Due to the uncertainties regarding Samarco’s future cash flow, Vale S.A. maintains a provision for the
obligation to comply with the reparation and compensation programs under the Framework Agreement
(pro rata to its proportional equity interest in Samarco). The movements in the provisions are as follows:

Balance at January 1st, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,077

–

Additions / Provision recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest accretion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38
(294)
182
(7)

996
326
670

996

1,163
(139)
72
(19)

1,077
292
785

1,077

2017

2016

In addition to the provision above, Vale S.A. made available in the year ended December 31, 2017 the
amount of US$142, which was fully used to fund Samarco’s working capital and was recognized in Vale´s
income statement as ‘‘Impairment and other results in associates and joint ventures’’. Vale S.A intends to

F-59
F-59

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

21.

Liabilities related to associates and joint ventures (Continued)

make  available  until  the  first  half  of  2018  up  to  US$48  to  Samarco  to  support  its  working  capital
requirements, without any binding obligation to Samarco in this regard. Such amounts will be released by
the  shareholders,  simultaneously  and  pursuant  to  the  same  terms  and  conditions,  subject  to  the
fulfillment of certain milestones.

The summarized financial information of Samarco are as follows:

Current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Negative reserves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

66
6,016

6,082
5,481
3,636

9,117
(3,035)
(930)

164
5,978

6,142
4,851
3,415

8,266
(2,124)
(965)

Under  Brazilian  legislation  and  the  terms  of  the  joint  venture  agreement,  Vale  does  not  have  an
obligation to provide funding to Samarco. Therefore, Vale’s investment in Samarco was impaired in full
and no provision was recognized in relation to the Samarco’s negative reserves.

The contingencies related to the Samarco dam failure are disclosed in note 27.

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

The provision requires the use of assumptions that may be mainly affected by: (i) changes in scope of work
required  under  the  Framework  Agreement  as  result  of  further  technical  analysis  and  the  ongoing
negotiations  with  the  Federal  Prosecution  Office,  (ii)  resolution  of  uncertainty  in  respect  of  the
resumption of Samarco´s operations; (iii) updates in the discount rate; and (iv) resolution of existing and
potential legal claims. As a result, future expenditures may differ from the amounts currently provided
and changes to key assumptions could result in a material impact to the amount of the provision in future
reporting periods. At each reporting period, Vale S.A. will reassess the key assumptions used by Samarco
in the preparation of the projected cash flows and will adjust the provision, if required.

22.

Financial instruments classification

The  Company  classifies  its  financial  instruments  in  accordance  with  the  purpose  for  which  they  were
acquired, and determines the classification and initial recognition according to the following categories:

Financial assets
Current

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Loans and At fair value
through
profit or
loss

receivables or
amortized
cost

Loans and At fair value
through
profit or
loss

receivables or
amortized
cost

Total

Total

F-60
F-60

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

22.

Financial instruments classification (Continued)

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Loans and At fair value
through
profit or
loss

receivables or
amortized
cost

Loans and At fair value
through
profit or
loss

receivables or
amortized
cost

Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivative financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-current
Derivative financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,328
18
–
2,600
1,898

8,844

–
151
2,628

2,779

Total of financial assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11,623

Financial liabilities
Current
Suppliers and contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivative financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans and borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-current
Derivative financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans and borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participative stockholders’ debentures . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total of financial liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4,041
–
1,703
270

6,014

–
20,786
975
–

21,761

27,775

12,182

8,123

Total

4,328
18
106
2,600
1,898

8,950

453
151
2,628

3,232

4,041
104
1,703
270

6,118

–
–
106
–
–

106

453
–
–

453

559

–
104
–
–

104

686
–
–
1,233

686
20,786
975
1,233

1,919

23,680

2,023

29,798

4,262
18
–
3,663
–

7,943

–
180
–

180

3,630
–
1,660
353

5,643

–
27,662
87
–

27,749

33,392

Total

4,262
18
274
3,663
–

8,217

446
180
–

626

8,843

3,630
414
1,660
353

6,057

–
–
274
–
–

274

446
–
–

446

720

–
414
–
–

414

1,225
–
–
775

1,225
27,662
87
775

2,000

29,749

2,414

35,806

F-61
F-61

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

22.

Financial instruments classification (Continued)

The classification of financial assets and liabilities by currencies are as follows:

December 31, 2017

R$

US$

CAD

EUR

Others
currencies

Financial assets
Current
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivative financial instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-current
Derivative financial instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,790
1
60
246
–

2,097

384
5
–

389

Total of financial assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,486

Financial liabilities
Current
Suppliers and contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivative financial instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans and borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-current
Derivative financial instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans and borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participative stockholders’ debentures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,464
95
768
–

3,327

638
3,379
78
1,233

2,395
17
46
2,334
1,898

6,690

69
146
2,628

2,843

9,533

1,108
9
880
270

2,267

48
16,060
897
–

Total of financial liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8,655

19,272

5,328

17,005

48
–
–
6
–

54

–
–
–

–

54

386
–
18
–

404

207
–
–

207

611

11
–
–
–
–

11

–
–
–

–

11

49
–
37
–

86

1,140
–
–

1,140

1,226

Total

4,328
18
106
2,600
1,898

8,950

453
151
2,628

3,232

84
–
–
14
–

98

–
–
–

–

98

12,182

34
–
–
–

34

–
–
–

–

34

4,041
104
1,703
270

6,118

686
20,786
975
1,233

23,680

29,798

F-62
F-62

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

22.

Financial instruments classification (Continued)

December 31, 2016

R$

US$

CAD

EUR

Others
currencies

Financial assets
Current
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivative financial instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-current
Derivative financial instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

961
1
104
337

1,403

400
35

435

2,899
17
170
3,310

6,396

46
96

142

Total of financial assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,838

6,538

Financial liabilities
Current
Suppliers and contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivative financial instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans and borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Non-current
Derivative financial instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans and borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participative stockholders’ debentures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,897
317
752
–

2,966

1,052
5,869
87
775

7,783

948
97
827
353

2,225

173
19,790
–
–

19,963

Total of financial liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10,749

22,188

23.

Fair value estimate

45
–
–
–

45

–
49

49

94

612
–
17
–

629

–
209
–
–

209

838

56
–
–
1

57

–
–

–

57

96
–
64
–

160

–
1,794
–
–

1,794

1,954

Total

4,262
18
274
3,663

8,217

446
180

626

301
–
–
15

316

–
–

–

316

8,843

77
–
–
–

77

–
–
–
–

–

77

3,630
414
1,660
353

6,057

1,225
27,662
87
775

29,749

35,806

Due  to  the  short-term  cycle,  it  is  assumed  that  the  fair  value  of  cash  and  cash  equivalents  balances,
financial investments, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate their book values. For the
measurement  and  determination  of  fair  value,  the  Company  uses  various  methods  including  market,
income  or  cost  approaches,  in  order  to  estimate  the  value  that  market  participants  would  use  when
pricing the asset or liability. The financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value are classified and
disclosed in accordance with the following levels:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices on an active, liquid and visible market for identical assets or liabilities
that are accessible at the measurement date;

Level  2—Quoted  prices  (adjusted  or  unadjusted)  for  identical  or  similar  assets  or  liabilities  on  active
markets; and

Level  3—Assets  and  liabilities,  for  which  quoted  prices,  do  not  exist,  or  where  prices  or  valuation
techniques are supported by little or no market activity, unobservable or illiquid.

F-63
F-63

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

23.

Fair value estimate (Continued)

a) Assets and liabilities measured and recognized at fair value:

Financial assets
Derivative financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Financial liabilities
Derivative financial instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participative stockholders’ debentures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Level 2

Level 3

Total

289

289

581
1,233

1,814

270

270

209
–

209

559

559

790
1,233

2,023

405

405

1,190
775

1,965

315

315

449
–

449

720

720

1,639
775

2,414

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2, or between Level 2 and Level 3 in the year ended
December 31, 2017.

The following table presents the changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities for the year ended December 31,
2017:

Balance at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gain recognized in income statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

315

(45)

270

449

(240)

209

Derivative financial instruments

Financial assets

Financial liabilities

Methods and techniques of evaluation

i) Derivative financial instruments

Financial instruments are evaluated by calculating their present value through the use of instrument yield
curves at the closing dates. The curves and prices used in the calculation for each group of instruments are
detailed in the ‘‘market curves’’.

The pricing method used for European options is the Black & Scholes model. In this model, the fair value of
the derivative is a function of the volatility in the price of the underlying asset, the exercise price of the
option, the interest rate and period to maturity. In the case of options which income is a function of the
average  price  of  the  underlying  asset  over  the  period  of  the  option,  the  Company  uses  Turnbull  &
Wakeman model. In this model, in addition to the factors that influence the option price in the Black-
Scholes model, the formation period of the average price is also considered.

F-64
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

23.

Fair value estimate (Continued)

In the case of swaps, both the present value of the assets and liability are estimated by discounting the
cash flow by the interest rate of the currency in which the swap is denominated. The difference between
the present value of assets and liability of the swap generates its fair value.

For the TJLP swaps, the calculation of the fair value assumes that TJLP is constant, that is the projections of
future cash flow in Brazilian Reais are made on the basis of the last TJLP disclosed.

Contracts for the purchase or sale of products, inputs and costs of selling with future settlement are priced
using  the  forward  yield  curves  for  each  product.  Typically,  these  curves  are  obtained  on  the  stock
exchanges where the products are traded, such as the London Metals Exchange (‘‘LME’’), the Commodity
Exchange (‘‘COMEX’’) or other providers of market prices. When there is no price for the desired maturity,
Vale uses an interpolation between the available maturities.

The fair value for derivatives are within level 3 are measured using discounted cash flows and option
model valuation techniques with main unobservable inputs discount rates, stock prices and commodities
prices.

Participative stockholders’ debentures—Consist of the debentures issued during the privatization process
(note 13), which fair values are measured based on the market approach. Reference prices are available
on the secondary market.

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

The  fair  values  of  financial  instruments  that  are  not  traded  in  active  markets  are  determined  using
valuation techniques. Vale uses its own judgment to choose between the various methods. Assumptions
are based on the market conditions, at the end of the year.

An analysis of the impact if actual results are different from management’s estimates is present on note 33
(sensitivity analysis).

b) Fair value of financial instruments not measured at fair value

The  fair  value  estimate  for  level  1  is  based  on  market  approach  considering  the  secondary  market
contracts. For loans allocated to level 2, the income approach is adopted and the fair value for both fixed-
indexed  rate  debt  and  floating  rate  debt  is  determined  on  a  discounted  cash  flows  basis  using  LIBOR
future values and Vale’s bonds curve.

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

23.

Fair value estimate (Continued)

The fair values and carrying amounts of loans and borrowings (net of interest) are as follows:

Financial liabilities

Balance

Fair value

Level 1

Level 2

December 31, 2017
Debt principal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
December 31, 2016
Debt principal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

21,955

23,088

14,935

8,153

28,691

27,375

13,874

13,501

24. Derivative financial instruments

a) Derivatives effects on statement of financial position

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Current

Non-current

Current

Non-current

Assets

Derivatives not designated as hedge accounting
Foreign exchange and interest rate risk
CDI & TJLP vs. US$ fixed and floating rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IPCA swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eurobonds swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pr ´e-dolar swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Commodities price risk
Nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bunker oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38
9
–
22

69

22
15

37
–

–

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

106

–
82
27
32

141

3
–

3
309

309

453

132
7
–
1

140

4
130

134
–

–

274

1
61
–
23

85

2
–

2
359

359

446

Derivatives not designated as hedge accounting
Foreign exchange and interest rate risk
CDI & TJLP vs. US$ fixed and floating rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IPCA swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eurobonds swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Euro Forward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pr ´e-dolar swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Commodities price risk
Nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bunker oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Current

Non-current

Current

Non-current

Liabilities

95

4
–
5

104

–
–

–

410
41
–
–
24

475

–
–

–

293
20
7
46
5

371

5
38

43

638
57
45
–
32

772

2
–

2

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

24. Derivative financial instruments (Continued)

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Current

Non-current

Current

Non-current

Liabilities

Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–

–

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

104

211

211

686

–

–

414

451

451

1,225

b) Effects of derivatives on the income statement, cash flow and other comprehensive
income

Gain (loss) recognized
in the income statement

Financial settlement
inflows (outflows)

Year ended December 31

Gain (loss) recognized
in other comprehensive
income

2017

2016

2015

2017

2016

2015

2017

2016

2015

Derivatives not designated as hedge accounting
Foreign exchange and interest rate risk
CDI & TJLP vs. US$ fixed and floating rate swap . . . .
IPCA swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Eurobonds swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Euro forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pr ´e-dolar swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Commodities price risk
Nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bunker oil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Others. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedge

accounting

Bunker oil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

152
43
36
46
36

313

30
(80)

(50)
191

–
–

–

869
78
(19)
(46)
77

(1,172)
(61)
(130)
–
(139)

(181)
(20)
(39)
–
(1)

(513)
(25)
(142)
–
(90)

(330)
7
(13)
–
(42)

959

(1,502)

(241)

(770)

(378)

(42)
268

226
74

–
(3)

(3)

(49)
(742)

(791)
(142)

(439)
(42)

(481)

4
(3)

1
–

–
–

–

(30)
(799)

(829)
–

–
(3)

(3)

(62)
(270)

(332)
–

(450)
(42)

(492)

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

454

1,256

(2,916)

(240)

(1,602)

(1,202)

–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–

–
–

–
2

2

2

–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–

–
–

435
17

452

452

During  2015,  the  Company  implemented  bunker  oil  purchase  cash  flows  protection  program  and
recognized as cost of goods sold and services rendered and financial expense the amounts of US$439 and
US$2,477, respectively. In 2016, all derivatives impacts were charged to financial results.

F-67
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

24. Derivative financial instruments (Continued)

The maturity dates of the derivative financial instruments are as follows:

Currencies and interest rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bunker oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nickel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Last maturity dates

January 2024
December 2017
December 2019
December 2027

c) Hedge in foreign operations

Implementation of net investment hedge

As at January 1, 2017, Vale S.A., which the functional currency is Reais, designated its debts in US$ and
Euro, as an instrument in a hedge of its investment in foreign operations (Vale International S.A. and Vale
International Holding GmbH; hedging objects) to mitigate part of the foreign exchange risk on financial
statements.

At December 31, 2017 the carrying value of the designated debts are US$5,303 and EUR750. The foreign
exchange  loss  of  US$144  (US$95,  net  of  taxes),  was  recognized  in  the  ‘‘Cumulative  translation
adjustments’’  in  stockholders’  equity  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2017.  This  hedge  was  highly
effective throughout the year ended on December 31, 2017.

Accounting policy

The  Company  uses  financial  instruments  to  hedge  its  exposure  to  certain  market  risks  arising  from
operational, financing and investing activities. Derivatives are included within financial assets or liabilities
at fair value through profit or loss unless they are designated as effective hedging instruments.

At the beginning of the hedge operations, the Company documents the type of hedge, the relationship
between  the  hedging  instrument  and  hedged  items,  its  risk  management  objective  and  strategy  for
undertaking  hedge  operations.  The  Company  also  documents,  both  at  hedge  inception  and  on  an
ongoing basis that the hedge is expected to continue to be highly effective. The Company adopts the
hedge accounting procedure and designates certain derivatives as either:

Cash flow hedge—The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated
and qualify as cash flow hedges is recognized in equity within ‘‘Cumulative translation adjustments’’. The
gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognized immediately in the income statement. When a
hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting,
any cumulative gain or loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognized in profit or
loss when the transaction is recognized in the income statement.

Net investment hedge—Hedges of net investments in foreign operations are accounted for similarly to
cash flow hedges. Any gain or loss on the hedging instrument relating to the effective portion of the

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

24. Derivative financial instruments (Continued)

hedge is recognized in equity within ‘‘Cumulative translation adjustments’’. The gain or loss relating to
the ineffective portion is recognized immediately in the income statement. Gains and losses accumulated
in equity are included in the statement of income when the foreign operation is partially or fully disposed
of or sold.

Derivatives at fair value through profit or loss—Certain derivative instruments do not qualify for hedge
accounting. Changes in the fair value of any of these derivative instruments are recognized immediately
in the income statement.

The Company has performed an assessment of the IFRS 9–Financial instruments and the expected impacts
are detailed in note 2e.

Additional information about derivatives financial instruments
In millions of United States dollars, except as otherwise stated

The  risk  of  the  derivatives  portfolio  is  measured  using  the  delta-Normal  parametric  approach,  and
considers that the future distribution of the risk factors and its correlations tends to present the same
statistic properties verified in the historical data. The value at risk estimate considers a 95% confidence
level for a one-business day time horizon.

There was no cash amount deposited as margin call regarding derivative positions on December 31, 2017.

The  following  tables  detail  the  derivatives  positions  for  Vale  and  its  controlled  companies  as  of
December 31, 2017, with the following information: notional amount, fair value including credit risk,
gains or losses in the period, value at risk and the fair value breakdown by year of maturity.

a) Foreign exchange and interest rates derivative positions

(i) Protection programs for the R$ denominated debt instruments

In order to reduce cash flow volatility, swap transactions were implemented to convert into US$ the cash
flows from certain debt instruments denominated in R$ with interest rates linked mainly to CDI, TJLP and
IPCA. In those swaps, Vale pays fixed or floating rates in US$ and receives payments in R$ linked to the
interest rates of the protected debt instruments.

The swap transactions were negotiated over-the-counter and the protected items are the cash flows from
debt instruments linked to R$. These programs transform into US$ the obligations linked to R$ to achieve

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

24. Derivative financial instruments (Continued)

a currency offset in the Company’s cash flows, by matching its receivables—mainly linked to US$—with its
payables.

Notional

Fair value

Financial
Settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair value by year

Flow

December 31, December 31,
2016

2017

Index

Average December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017

2017

2017

2016

rate

2018

2019 2020+

1.25%
1.55%

101.33%
3.20%

CDI
Fix

TJLP +
Fix

R$ 4,360
US$2,030

R$ 6,289
US$2,105

CDI vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Receivable . . . . . . . . R$ 3,540
Payable . . . . . . . . . . . US$1,104
TJLP vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Receivable . . . . . . . . R$ 2,982
Payable . . . . . . . . . . . US$1,323
TJLP vs. US$ floating rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Receivable . . . . . . . . R$
216
Payable . . . . . . . . . . . US$ 123
R$ fixed rate vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Receivable . . . . . . . . R$ 1,158
Payable . . . . . . . . . . . US$ 385
IPCA vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Receivable . . . . . . . . R$ 1,000
Payable . . . . . . . . . . . US$ 434
IPCA vs. CDI swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Receivable . . . . . . . . R$ 1,350
Payable . . . . . . . . . . . R$ 1,350

R$ 1,031
US$ 343

R$ 1,000
US$ 434

R$
242
US$ 140

R$ 1,350
R$ 1,350

IPCA +
Fix

IPCA +
CDI

Fix
Fix

TJLP +
0.88%
Libor + (cid:7)1.23%

8.02%
(cid:7)0.28%

6.62%
98.58%

6.55%
3.98%

(33)

(121)

13

15

27

(24)

(37)

(380)

(622)

(191)

37

(80) (245)

(56)

(54)

(55)

25

(13)

(35)

(51)

(2)

(1)

(0)

3

(4)

(50)

–

27

18

13

(6)

9

7 (15.5)

(27)

85

42

(20)

0.4

2

(0)

83

(ii) Protection program for EUR denominated debt instruments

In order to reduce the cash flow volatility, swap and forward transactions were implemented to convert
into US$ the cash flows from certain debt instruments issued in Euros by Vale. In those swaps, Vale receives
fixed rates in EUR and pays fixed rates in US$. In those forwards only the principal amount of the debt is
converted from EUR to US$.

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

24. Derivative financial instruments (Continued)

The swap and forward transactions were negotiated over-the-counter and the protected items are the
cash flows from debt instruments linked to EUR. The financial settlement inflows/outflows are offset by
the protected items’ losses/gains due to EUR/US$ exchange rate.

Notional

Fair value

Financial
Settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair value by year

Flow

December 31, December 31,

2017

2016 Index

Average December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017

2017

2017

2016

rate

2018

2019 2020+

EUR fixed rate vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Receivable . . . . . . . . . . . .
500
Payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . US$ 613

e
500
US$ 613

3.75%
4.29%

Fix
Fix

e

23

(52)

(7)

6

(4)

(4)

31

Flow

December 31, December 31, Bought / Average rate December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017

(USD/EUR)

2017

2016

2016

2017

2017

Sold

Notional

Fair value

Financial
Settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair
value
by
year

2018

Forwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

e0

e500

B

1.143

–

(46)

(32)

–

–

b) Commodities derivative positions

(i) Bunker Oil purchase cash flows protection program

In  order  to  reduce  the  impact  of  bunker  oil  price  fluctuation  on  maritime  freight  hiring/supply  and,
consequently,  reducing  the  company’s  cash  flow  volatility,  bunker  oil  derivatives  were  implemented,
through zero cost-collars.

The derivative transactions were negotiated over-the-counter and the protected item is part of the Vale’s
costs linked to bunker oil prices. The financial settlement inflows/outflows are offset by the protected
items’ losses/gains due to bunker oil prices changes.

The contracts expired in 2017.

Notional (ton)

Average

Fair value

Financial
settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair value
by year

Flow

2017

2016

December 31, December 31, Bought /

Sold (US$/ton)

strike December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017
2016

2017

2017

Bunker Oil protection
Call options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Put options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–
–

2,856,000
2,856,000

B
S

–
–

–
–

–

130
(14)

116

3
–

3

–
–

–

2017

–
–

–

As  at  December  31,  2016,  excludes  US$24,  of  transactions  in  which  the  financial  settlement  occurs
subsequently of the closing month.

F-71
F-71

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

24. Derivative financial instruments (Continued)

(ii) Protection programs for base metals raw materials and products

In  the  operational  protection  program  for  nickel  sales  at  fixed  prices,  derivatives  transactions  were
implemented to convert into floating prices the contracts with clients that required a fixed price, in order
to keep nickel revenues exposed to nickel price fluctuations. Those operations are usually implemented
through the purchase of nickel forwards.

In  the  operational  protection  program  for  the  purchase  of  raw  materials  and  products,  derivatives
transactions were implemented, usually through the sale of nickel and copper forward or futures, in order
to reduce the mismatch between the pricing period of purchases (concentrate, cathode, sinter, scrap and
others) and the pricing period of the final product sales to the clients.

The  derivative  transactions  are  negotiated  at  London  Metal  Exchange  or  over-the-counter  and  the
protected  item  is  part  of  Vale’s  revenues  and  costs  linked  to  nickel  and  copper  prices.  The  financial
settlement inflows/outflows are offset by the protected items’ losses/gains due to nickel and copper prices
changes.

Flow

Notional (ton)

December 31, December 31, Bought /
Sold

2016

2017

Average
strike
(US$/ December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2016

Value at Risk

Fair value

2017

2017

ton)

2017 2017 2018

Fair value
by year

Financial
settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Fixed price sales protection
Nickel forwards . . . . . . . . . . . .
Raw material purchase protection
Nickel forwards . . . . . . . . . . . .
Copper forwards . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9,621

11,615

292
79

134
441

B

S
S

10,253

11,597
6,941

24

(0.3)
(0.0)

(0.4)

(1)

0.1
(0.1)

(0.0)

(2)

0.3
(0.3)

0.0

4

21

0.1 (0.3)
0.0 (0.0)

0.1 (0.4)

3

–
–

–

c) Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. warrants

The company owns warrants of Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. (WPM), a Canadian company with stocks
negotiated in Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange. Such warrants configure American
call options and were received as part of the payment regarding the sale of part of gold payable flows
produced as a sub product from Salobo copper mine and some nickel mines in Sudbury.

Notional (quantity)

Average

Fair value

Financial
settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair value
by year

Flow

2017

2016

Sold (US$/share)

December 31, December 31, Bought /

strike December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017
2016

2017

2017

Call options . . . . .

10,000,000

10,000,000

B

44

39

44

–

4

2023

39

F-72
F-72

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

24. Derivative financial instruments (Continued)

d) Debentures convertible into shares of Valor da Log´ıstica Integrada (‘‘VLI’’)

The company has debentures in which lenders have the option to convert the outstanding debt into a
specified quantity of shares of VLI owned by the company.

Notional (quantity)

Average

Fair value

Financial
settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair value
by year

Flow

Conversion

2017

2016

December 31, December 31, Bought /

Sold (R$/share)

strike December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017
2016

2017

2017

2027

options . . . . . . . . .

140,239

140,239

S

8,530

(57)

(72)

–

3

(57)

e) Options related to Minera¸c ˜oes Brasileiras Reunidas S.A. (‘‘MBR’’) shares

The Company entered into a stock sale and purchase agreement that has options related to MBR shares.
Mainly, the Company has the right to buy back this non-controlling interest in the subsidiary. Moreover,
under certain restrict and contingent conditions, which are beyond the buyer’s control, such as illegality
due to changes in the law, the contract has a clause that gives the buyer the right to sell back its stake to
the Company. It this case, the Company could settle through cash or shares.

Notional (quantity, in
millions)

December 31, December 31, Bought /

Average

Fair value

Financial
settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair value
by year

2016

Sold (R$/share)

strike December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017
2016

2017

2017

2018+

2,139

B/S

1.7

251

121

–

12

251

Flow

Options . . . . . . . . . . .

2017

2,139

f) Embedded derivatives in contracts

The Company has some nickel concentrate and raw materials purchase agreements in which there are
provisions  based  on  nickel  and  copper  future  prices  behavior.  These  provisions  are  considered  as
embedded derivatives.

Notional (ton)

Average

Fair value

Financial
settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair value
by year

December 31, December 31, Bought /

Sold (US$/ton)

strike December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017
2016

2017

2017

Flow

Nickel forwards . . .
Copper forwards . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2017

2,627
2,718

2016

5,626
3,684

S
S

11,729
6,808

1
0

1

0
2

2

1
0

1

–

2018

1
0

1

F-73
F-73

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

24. Derivative financial instruments (Continued)

The Company has also a natural gas purchase agreement in which there´s a clause that defines that a
premium can be charged if the Company’s pellet sales prices trade above a pre-defined level. This clause is
considered an embedded derivative.

Notional (volume/month)

December 31, December 31, Bought /

Flow

2017

2016

Average

Fair value

Financial
settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair value
by year

Sold (US$/ton)

strike December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017
2016

2017

2017

2018

2019+

Call options

746,667

746,667

S

233

(2)

(2)

–

1

(0)

(2)

In August 2014 the Company sold part of its stake in Valor da Log´ıstica Integrada (‘‘VLI’’) to an investment
fund managed by Brookfield Asset Management (‘‘Brookfield’’). The sales contract includes a clause that
establishes, under certain conditions, a minimum return guarantee on Brookfield’s investment. This clause
is considered an embedded derivative, with payoff equivalent to that of a put option.

Notional (quantity)

Average

Fair value

Financial
settlement
Inflows
(Outflows)

Value at Risk

Fair value
by year

Flow

December 31,
2017

December 31, Bought /
2016

Sold (R$/share)

strike December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31,
2017
2016

2017

2017

Put option . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,105,070,863 1,105,070,863

S

3.86

(133)

(182)

–

10

2027

(133)

For sensitivity analysis of derivative financial instruments, Financial counterparties’ ratings and market
curves please see note 33.

25. Provisions

December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Payroll, related charges and other

remunerations(i) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Onerous contracts (note 19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Environment Restoration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asset retirement obligations (note 26) . . . . . . .
Provisions for litigation (note 27) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employee postretirement obligations

(note 28) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,101
102
30
87
–

74

1,394

725
101
10
47
–

69

952

–
364
79
3,081
1,473

2,030

7,027

–
473
111
2,472
839

1,853

5,748

(i)

Includes profit sharing provision US$780 and US$331 for the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

F-74
F-74

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

26. Asset retirement obligations

Provision is made for expected costs for the closure of the mines and deactivation of the related mining
assets. Changes in the provision for asset retirement obligations and long-term interest rates (per annum,
used to discount these obligations to present value and to update the provisions) are as follows:

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Balance at beginning of the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,519

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Settlements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Revisions on cash flows estimates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of discontinued operations
Transfer to net assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at end of the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

70
(60)
620
96

(77)

3,168

87
3,081

3,168

2,474

115
(77)
230
134

(357)

2,519

47
2,472

2,519

Long-term interest rates (per annum)
Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other regions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5.34%
0.57%
0.72%–6.13%

5.73%
0.55%
1.07%–8.02%

Accounting policy

When the provision is recognized, the corresponding cost is capitalized as part of property, plant and
equipment and is depreciated over the useful life of the related mining asset, resulting in an expense
recognized in the income statement.

The  long-term  liability  is  discounted  at  presented  value  using  a  long-term  risk  free  discount  rate
applicable  to  the  liability  and  the  unwinds  are  recorded  in  the  income  statement  and  is  reduced  by
payments for mine closure and decommissioning of mining assets.

The accrued amounts of these obligations are not deducted from the potential costs covered by insurance
or indemnities.

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

Judgment  is  required  to  determine  key  assumptions  used  on  the  asset  retirement  obligation
measurement such as, interest rate, cost of closure, useful life of the mining asset considering the current
conditions of closure and the projected date of depletion of each mine. Any changes in these assumptions
may significant impact the recorded provision. Therefore, the estimated costs for closure of the mining
assets is deemed to be a critical accounting estimate. These estimates are annually reviewed.

F-75
F-75

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

27.

Litigation

a) Provision for litigation

Vale is party to labor, civil, tax and other ongoing lawsuits, at administrative and court levels. Provisions
for losses resulting from lawsuits are estimated and updated by the Company, based on analysis from the
Company’s legal consultants.

Changes in provision for litigation are as follows:

Tax litigation Civil litigation Labor litigation

Environmental Total of litigation
provision

litigation

Balance at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reversals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Indexation and interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effect of discontinued operations

Net movements of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfers to net assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reversals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Indexation and interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Merger of Valepar (note 29)(i) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

269

23
(37)
(53)
9
20

–
(17)

214

40
(18)
(117)
10
(10)
631

750

(i)

refers to litigations of PIS/COFINS of interest on capital.

79

96
(63)
(59)
16
21

(1)
(5)

84

53
(36)
(3)
35
(2)
–

131

454

243
(122)
(103)
9
89

8
(44)

534

244
(118)
(105)
37
(10)
–

582

20

2
(5)
(5)
(3)
5

(1)
(6)

7

6
(2)
–
(1)
–
–

10

822

364
(227)
(220)
31
135

6
(72)

839

343
(174)
(225)
81
(22)
631

1,473

i. Provisions for labor litigation—Consist of lawsuits filed by employees and service suppliers, related to
employment relationships mainly in Brazil. The most recurring claims are related to payment of overtime,
hours in itinerary, and health and safety. Also the social security in Brazil (‘‘INSS’’) contingencies are related
to  legal  and  administrative  disputes  between  INSS  and  Vale  due  to  applicability  of  compulsory  social
security charges.

F-76
F-76

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

27.

Litigation (Continued)

b) Contingent liabilities

Contingent liabilities of administrative and judicial claims, with expectation of loss classified as possible,
and for which the recognition of a provision is not considered necessary by the Company, based on legal
advice are as follows:

Tax litigation(i) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Civil litigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Labor litigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Environmental litigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8,840
1,623
1,952
2,190

14,605

7,636
1,515
2,419
1,882

13,452

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

(i)

US$193 from merger of Valepar S.A.

i—Tax litigation—Our most significant tax-related contingent liabilities result from disputes related to
(i) the deductibility of our payments of social security contributions on the net income (CSLL) from our
taxable income, (ii) challenges of certain tax credits we deducted from our PIS and COFINS payments,
(iii) assessments of CFEM (royalties), and (iv) charges of value-added tax on services and circulation of
goods  (ICMS),  especially  relating  to  certain  tax  credits  we  claimed  from  the  sale  and  transmission  of
energy, ICMS charges to anticipate the payment in the entrance of goods to Par ´a State and ICMS/penalty
charges on our own transportation. The changes reported in the period resulted, mainly, from additions
of other periods to the existing proceedings related to PIS, COFINS, ICMS, CFEM; as well as the inclusion of
Valepar S.A. proceedings and the application interest and inflation adjustments to the disputed amounts.

ii—Civil  litigation—Most  of  those  claims  have  been  filed  by  suppliers  for  indemnification  under
construction  contracts,  primarily  relating  to  certain  alleged  damages,  payments  and  contractual
penalties. A number of other claims related to contractual disputes regarding inflation index.

iii—Labor litigation—Represents individual claims by employees and service providers, primarily involving
demands for additional compensation for overtime work, time spent commuting or health and safety
conditions; and the Brazilian federal social security administration (‘‘INSS’’) regarding contributions on
compensation programs based on profits.

iv—Environmental  litigation—The  most  significant  claims  concern  alleged  procedural  deficiencies  in
licensing processes, non-compliance with existing environmental licenses or damage to the environment.

c) Judicial deposits

In addition to the provisions and contingent liabilities, the Company is required by law to make judicial
deposits  to  secure  a  potential  adverse  outcome  of  certain  lawsuits.  These  court-ordered  deposits  are

F-77
F-77

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

27.

Litigation (Continued)

monetarily  adjusted  and  reported  as  non-current  assets  until  a  judicial  decision  to  draw  the  deposit
occurs.

Tax litigation(i) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Civil litigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Labor litigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Environmental litigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,201
60
712
13

1,986

193
62
691
16

962

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

(i)

Includes US$951 related to the merger of Valepar (note 29).

d) Contingencies related to Samarco accident

(i) Public civil claim filed by the Federal Government and others

The federal government, the two Brazilian states affected by the failure (Espirito Santo and Minas Gerais)
and  other  governmental  authorities  have  initiated  a  public  civil  lawsuit  against  Samarco  and  its
shareholders, Vale S.A. and BHPB, with an estimated value indicated by the plaintiffs of US$6.1 billion
(R$20.2 billion).

The Framework Agreement signed in March 2016, was ratified by the Federal Regional Court (‘‘TRF’’) in
May  2016.  This  ratification  was  suspended  by  the  Superior  Court  of  Justice  (‘‘STJ’’)  in  June  2016  and
resulted  in  the  restoration  of  the  public  civil  claim,  and  maintained  other  measures,  such  as:  (a)  the
prohibition of the defendants from transferring or conveying any of their interest in its Brazilian iron ore
concessions, without, however, limiting their production and commercial activities and; (b) the order of
the deposit with the court of US$363 (R$1.2 billion) by January 2017, which was provisionally replaced by
the guarantees provided for under the agreements with Federal Prosecution Office (‘‘MPF’’), as detailed in
the item (ii) below.

(ii) Public civil action filed by Federal Prosecution Office

On May 3, 2016, the Federal Prosecution Office (MPF) filed a public civil lawsuit against Samarco and its
shareholders and presented several demands, including: (i) the adoption of measures for mitigating the
social,  economic  and  environmental  impacts  resulting  from  the  dam  failure  and  other  emergency
measures; (ii) the payment of compensation to the community; and (iii) payments for the collective moral
damage. The action value indicated by the MPF is US$47 billion (R$155 billion).

In January 2017 Samarco, Vale S.A. and BHPB entered into two preliminary agreements with the MPF.

The first agreement (‘‘First Agreement’’) aims to outline the process and timeline for negotiations of a
Final  Agreement  (‘‘Final  Agreement’’),  initially  expected  to  occur  by  June  30,  2017  and  extended  by
April 20, 2018. This First Agreement establishes a timeline and actions to set the ground for conciliation of

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

27.

Litigation (Continued)

two public civil lawsuits in the amounts of US$6.1 billion (R$20.2 billion) and US$47 billion (R$155 billion),
mentioned above, which are actually suspended.

In addition, the First Agreement provides for: (a) the appointment of experts to give support the Federal
Prosecutors  and  paid  for  by  the  companies  to  conduct  a  diagnosis  and  monitor  the  progress  of  the
programs under the Framework Agreement, and (b) holding at public hearings and the engagement of
technical  assistance  to  the  affected  people,  in  order  to  allow  these  communities  to  take  part  in  the
definition of the content of the Final Agreement.

Samarco,  Vale  S.A.  and  BHPB  has  agreed  to  provide  a  guarantee  for  fulfillment  of  the  obligations
regarding  the  financing  and  payment  of  the  socio-environmental  and  socio-economic  remediation
programs resulting from the Fund ˜ao dam failure, pursuant to the two public civil actions, until the signing
of  the  Final  Agreement,  amounting  to  US$665  (R$2.2  billion),  of  which  (i)  US$30  (R$100  million)  in
financial investments; (ii) US$393 (R$1.3 billion) in insurance bonds; and (iii) US$242 (R$800 million) in
assets  of  Samarco.  If,  by  April  20,  2018,  the  negotiations  have  not  been  completed,  the  Federal
Prosecutor’s  Office  may  require  that  the  Court  re-institute  the  order  for  the  deposit  of  US$363
(R$1.2  billion)  in  relation  to  the  US$6.1  billion  (R$20.2  billion)  public  civil  action  and  US$2.2  billion
(R$7.7 billion) related US$47 billion (R$155 billion), mentioned above, which are actually suspended.

On  March  16,  2017,  the  12th  Judicial  Federal  Court  of  Belo  Horizonte  partially  ratified  the  First
Agreement, which decision includes: (i) ratification of the engagement of experts to perform a socio-
environmental impact assessment and assessment of programs under the Framework Agreement and a
period for the companies to engage an expert to perform the socio-economic impact assessment; (ii) the
consolidation and suspension of related claims aiming to avoid contradictory or conflicting decisions and
to establish a unified judicial procedure in order for the parties to be able to reach a final agreement;
(iii) accepted the guarantees proposed by Samarco and its shareholders under the Preliminary Agreement
on a temporary basis.

In  addition,  the  Second  Agreement  (‘‘Second  Agreement’’)  was  signed  on  January  19,  2017,  which
establishes a timetable to make funds available to remediate the social, economic and environmental
damages caused by the Fund ˜ao dam failure in the municipalities of Barra Longa, Rio Doce, Santa Cruz do
Escalvado and Ponte Nova, amounting to US$60 (R$200 million). The 12th Judicial Federal Court of Belo
Horizonte ratified this Second Agreement.

Parties  are  still  negotiating  an  agreement  regarding  the  choice  of  the  expert  to  perform  the  socio-
economic impact assessment. In this regard, on November 16th, 2017, they signed an addendum to the
First Agreement, in which the parties defined matters related to the socio-economic impact assessment,
its institutional structure and the respective experts, which, in the period of 90 days from the signing of
the addendum, shall present their technical and commercial proposals.

Alongside,  the  parties,  together  with  the  plaintiffs  of  the  US$6.1  billion  (R$20.2  billion)  public  civil
lawsuit,  the  State  Prosecutors  and  the  Public  Defenders,  are  conducting  the  discussions  regarding  the
Final Agreement.

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

27.

Litigation (Continued)

(iii) U.S. Securities class action suits

Related to the Vale´s American Depositary Receipts

Vale S.A. and certain of its officers were named as defendants in securities class action suits in the Federal
Court in New York brought by holders of Vale’s American Depositary Receipts under U.S. federal securities
laws. The lawsuits allege that Vale S.A. made false and misleading statements or did not make disclosures
concerning the risks and dangers of the operations of Samarco’s Fund ˜ao dam and the adequacy of related
programs and procedures. The plaintiffs have not specified an amount of alleged damages or indemnities
in these actions.

On  March  23,  2017  the  judge  issued  a  decision  rejecting  a  significant  portion  of  the  claims  against
Vale S.A. and the individual defendants, and determining the prosecution of the action with respect to
more limited claims. The portion of plaintiffs’ case that remains is related to certain statements about
procedures, policies and risk mitigation plans contained in Vale S.A.’s sustainability reports in 2013 and
2014, and certain statements regarding to the responsibility of Vale S.A. for the Fund ˜ao dam failure made
in a conference call in November 2015.

This lawsuit is currently ongoing with under discovery the gathering of documents to be provided to the
plaintiffs.

Vale S.A. continues to contest the outstanding points related to this lawsuit.

Related to the Samarco bonds

In March 2017, holders of bonds issued by Samarco filed a class action suit in the Federal Court in New York
against Samarco, Vale S.A. and BHPB under U.S. federal securities laws demanding for indemnification for
alleged violation of U.S. federal securities laws. The plaintiffs allege that false and misleading statements
were  made  or  disclosures  omitted  concerning  the  risks  and  dangers  of  the  operations  of  Samarco’s
Fund ˜ao dam and the adequacy of related programs and procedures. It is alleged that with the Fund ˜ao
dam collapse, the securities have dramatically decreased, in order that the investors who have purchased
such securities in a misleading way should be compensated, without, however, specifying an amount for
the alleged damages or indemnities in this action.

Vale S.A. continues to contest this lawsuit.

(iv) Criminal lawsuit

On October 20, 2016, the MPF brought a criminal lawsuit in the Brazilian Federal Justice Court against
Vale S.A., BHPB, Samarco, VogBr Recursos H´ıdricos e Geotecnia Ltda. and 22 individuals for alleged crimes
against the environment, urban planning and cultural heritage, flooding, landslide, as well as for alleged
crimes against the victims of the Fund ˜ao dam failure.

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

27.

Litigation (Continued)

In  November  2017  it  was  published  a  decision  by  means  of  the  Federal  Lower  Court  of  Ponte  Nova
established the resume of the criminal lawsuit and determined the beginning of the Discovery phase.

(v) Other lawsuits

In addition, Samarco and its shareholders were named as a defendant in several other lawsuits brought by
individuals,  corporations,  governmental  entities  or  public  prosecutor  seeking  personal  and  property
damages.

Given the status of these lawsuits, it is not possible at this time to provide a range of possible outcomes or
a reliable estimates of potential exposures for Vale S.A. Consequently, no contingent liability has been
quantified and no provision was recognized for lawsuits related to Samarco´s dam failure.

Accounting policy

A provision is recognized when is considered probable that an outflow of resources will be required to
settle the obligation and can be reliably estimated. The liability is accounted against an expense in the
income  statement.  This  obligation  is  updated  based  on  the  developments  of  the  judicial  process  or
interest accretion and can be reversed if the expectation of loss is not considered probable due to changes
in circumstances or when the obligation is settled.

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

By nature, litigations will be resolved when one or more future event occurs or fails to occur. Typically, the
occurrence  or  not  of  such  events  is  outside  of  the  Company’s  control.  Legal  uncertainties  involve  the
application of significant estimates and judgments by management regarding the potential out comes of
future events.

28. Employee benefits

a) Employee postretirements obligations

In  Brazil,  the  management  of  the  pension  plans  is  responsibility  of  Funda¸c ˜ao  Vale  do  Rio  Doce  de
Seguridade Social (‘‘Valia’’) a nonprofit entity with administrative and financial autonomy. The Brazilian
plans are as follows:

Benefit  plan  Vale  Mais  (‘‘Vale  Mais’’)  and  benefit  plan  Valiaprev  (‘‘Valiaprev’’)—Certain  Company’s
employees are participants of Vale Mais and Valiaprev plans with components of defined benefit (specific
coverage for death, pensions and disability allowances) and components of defined contributions (for
programmable  benefits).  The  defined  benefits  plan  is  subject  to  actuarial  evaluations.  The  defined
contribution  plan  represents  a  fixed  amount  held  on  behalf  of  the  participants.  Both  Vale  Mais  and
Valiaprev were overfunded as at December 31, 2017 and 2016.

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

Defined benefit plan (‘‘Plano BD’’)—The Plano BD has been closed to new entrants since the year 2000,
when the Vale Mais plan was implemented. It is a plan that has defined benefit characteristics, covering
almost exclusively retirees and their beneficiaries. It was overfunded as of December 31, 2017 and 2016
and the contributions made by the Company are not relevant.

Abono  complementa¸c ˜ao  benefit  plan—The  Company  sponsors  a  specific  group  of  former  employees
entitled  to  receive  additional  benefits  from  Valia  regular  payments  plus  post-retirement  benefit  that
covers medical, dental and pharmaceutical assistance. The contributions made by the Company finished in
2014. The abono complementa¸c ˜ao benefit was overfunded as at December 31, 2017 and 2016.

Other benefits—The Company sponsors medical plans for employees that meet specific criteria and for
employees  who  use  the  abono  complementa¸c ˜ao  benefit.  Although  those  benefits  are  not  specific
retirement plans, actuarial calculations are used to calculate future commitments. As those benefits are
related  to  health  care  plans  they  have  the  nature  of  underfunded  benefits,  and  are  presented  as
underfunded plans as at December 31, 2017 and 2016.

The  Foreign  plans  are  managed  in  accordance  with  their  region.  They  are  divided  between  plans  in
Canada,  United  States  of  America,  United  Kingdom,  Indonesia,  New  Caledonia,  Japan  and  Taiwan.
Pension  plans  in  Canada  are  composed  of  a  defined  benefit  and  defined  contribution  component.
Currently the defined benefit plans do not allow new entrants. The foreign defined benefit plans are
underfunded as at December 31, 2017 and 2016.

Employers’ disclosure about pensions and other post-retirement benefits on the status of the defined
benefit elements of all plans is provided as follows.

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

i. Change in benefit obligation

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Benefit obligation as at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,474

3,689

Service costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participant contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of changes in the actuarial assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer to held for sale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10
362
(281)
1
271
(9)
515
–

76
175
(259)
–
117
–
124
123

Other
benefits

1,223

(16)
66
(61)
–
75
(59)
68
–

Benefit obligation as at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,343

4,045

1,296

Service costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participant contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of changes in the actuarial assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7
360
(326)
–
64
(51)

86
183
(275)
(12)
167
276

30
67
(65)
–
11
71

Benefit obligation as at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,397

4,470

1,410

F-83
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

ii. Evolution of assets fair value

Fair value of plan assets as at December 31, 2015 . .

Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employer contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participant contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income) . .
Transfer to held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fair value of plan assets as at December 31, 2016 . .

Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employer contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Participant contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income) . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fair value of plan assets as at December 31, 2017 . .

Overfunded pension plans

Underfunded pension plans

Other benefits

3,435

512
42
1
(281)
281
(13)
717
–

4,694

513
45
–
(326)
(21)
(77)

4,828

3,094

151
99
–
(259)
71
–
105
158

3,419

151
65
(12)
(275)
174
254

3,776

–

–
61
–
(61)
–
–
–
–

–

–
65
–
(65)
–
–

–

iii. Reconciliation of assets and liabilities recognized in the statement of financial position

December 31, 2017

Plans in Brazil

December 31, 2016

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other
benefits

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other
benefits

Balance at beginning of the year . . . . .

Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes on asset ceiling and onerous
liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer to held for sale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,351

152

(45)
(27)
–

Balance at end of the year . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,431

Amount recognized in the statement

of financial position

Present value of actuarial liabilities . . .
Fair value of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of the asset ceiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3,397)
4,828
(1,431)

–

–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

(401)
239
–

(162)

–
(162)

(162)

–

–

–
–
–

–

(258)
–
–

(258)

(22)
(236)

(258)

961

156

35
201
(2)

1,351

(3,343)
4,694
(1,351)

–

–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

(386)
257
–

(129)

–
(129)

(129)

–

–

–
–
–

–

(227)
–
–

(227)

(18)
(209)

(227)

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

Amount recognized in the statement

of financial position

Present value of actuarial liabilities . . .
Fair value of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 31, 2017

Foreign plan

December 31, 2016

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other
benefits

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other
benefits

–
–

–

–
–

–

(4,069)
3,537

(1,152)
–

(532)

(1,152)

(16)
(516)

(532)

(36)
(1,116)

(1,152)

–
–

–

–
–

–

(3,659)
3,162

(1,069)
–

(497)

(1,069)

(16)
(481)

(497)

(35)
(1,034)

(1,069)

Total

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other
benefits

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other
benefits

Balance at beginning of the year . . . . .

Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes on asset ceiling and onerous
liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer to held for sale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,351

152

(45)
(27)
–

Balance at end of the year . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,431

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

Amount recognized in the statement

of financial position

Present value of actuarial liabilities . . .
Fair value of assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of the asset ceiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3,397)
4,828
(1,431)

–

–
–

–

(4,470)
3,776
–

(1,410)
–
–

(694)

(1,410)

(16)
(678)

(694)

(58)
(1,352)

(1,410)

961

156

35
201
(2)

1,351

(3,343)
4,694
(1,351)

–

–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

(4,045)
3,419
–

(1,296)
–
–

(626)

(1,296)

(16)
(610)

(626)

(53)
(1,243)

(1,296)

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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

iv. Costs recognized in the income statement

2017

2016

2015

Year ended December 31

Overfunded Underfunded
pension

pension
plans

Other
plans benefits

Overfunded Underfunded
pension

pension
plans

Other
plans benefits

Overfunded Underfunded
pension

pension
plans

Other
plans benefits

Service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest on expense on liabilities . . .
Interest income on plan assets . . . . .
Interest expense on effect of

(asset ceiling)/ onerous liability . .

Total of cost, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7
360
(513)

152

6

86
183
(151)

–

118

30
67
–

–

97

10
362
(512)

156

16

76
175
(151)

–

100

(16)
66
–

–

50

20
359
(491)

132

20

94
178
(151)

–

121

28
66
–

–

94

v. Costs recognized in the statement of comprehensive income

2017

2016

2015

Year ended December 31

Overfunded Underfunded
pension

pension
plans

Other
plans benefits

Overfunded Underfunded
pension

pension
plans

Other
plans benefits

Overfunded Underfunded
pension

pension
plans

Other
plans benefits

Balance at beginning of the year . .

(153)

(496)

(160)

(113)

(495)

(95)

(143)

(570)

(132)

Effect of changes actuarial

assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(65)

(167)

(27)

(271)

(117)

(75)

184

70

31

Return on plan assets (excluding

interest income). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–

167

–

281

71

Change of asset ceiling / costly
liabilities (excluding interest
income) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deferred income tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Others comprehensive income . . . . .
Translation adjustments. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfers/ disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accumulated other comprehensive
income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

47
(3)

(21)
7

(14)
4
–

–
–

–
(3)

(3)
4
(1)

–
(14)

(41)
12

(29)
1
(1)

(36)
–

(26)
9

(17)
(23)
–

–
35

(11)
16

5
(6)
–

–

–
–

(75)
17

(58)
(7)
–

(284)

70
–

(30)
10

(20)
49
1

(8)

–
2

64
2

66
10
(1)

–

–
1

32
(9)

23
14
–

(163)

(496)

(189)

(153)

(496)

(160)

(113)

(495)

(95)

F-86
F-86

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

vi. Risks related to plans

The Administrators of the plans have committed to strategic planning to strengthen internal controls and
risk management. This commitment is archived by conducting audits including of internal controls, which
aim to mitigate operational market and credit risks. Risks are presented as follow:

Legal—lawsuits:  issuing  periodic  reports  to  internal  audit  and  directors  contemplating  the  analysis  of
lawyers about the possibility of loss (remote, probable or possible), aiming to support the administrative
decision regarding provisions. Analysis and ongoing monitoring of developments in the legal scenario
and its dissemination within the institution in order to subsidize the administrative plans, considering the
impact of regulatory changes.

Actuarial—the annual actuarial valuation of the benefit plans comprises the assessment of costs, revenues
and  adequacy  of  plan  funding.  It  also  considers  the  monitoring  of  biometric,  economic  and  financial
assumptions (asset volatility, changes in interest rates, inflation, life expectancy, salaries and other).

Market—profitability  projections  are  performed  for  the  various  plans  and  profiles  of  investments  for
10  years  in  the  management  study  of  assets  and  liabilities.  These  projections  include  the  risks  of
investments in various market segments. Furthermore, the risks for short-term market of the plans are
monitored monthly through metrics of VaR (Value at Risk) and stress testing. For exclusive investment
funds of Valia, the market risk is measured daily by the custodian asset bank.

Credit—assessment  of  the  credit  quality  of  issuers  by  hiring  expert  consultants  to  evaluate  financial
institutions  and  internal  assessment  of  payment  ability  of  non-financial  companies.  For  assets  of
non-financial companies, the assessment is conducted a monitoring of the company until the maturity of
the security.

vii. Actuarial and economic assumptions and sensitivity analysis

All  calculations  involve  future  actuarial  projections  about  some  parameters,  such  as:  salaries,  interest,
inflation, the trend of social security in Brazil (‘‘INSS’’) benefits, mortality and disability.

The  economic  and  actuarial  assumptions  adopted  have  been  formulated  considering  the  long-term
period  for  maturity  and  should  therefore  be  examined  accordingly.  In  the  short  term  they  may  not
necessarily be realized.

F-87
F-87

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

In the evaluations were adopted the following assumptions:

Discount rate to
determine
benefit
obligation . . . . . .

Nominal average

rate to
determine
expense/
income . . . . . . . . . .

Nominal average
rate of salary
increase . . . . . . . . .

Nominal average
rate of benefit
increase . . . . . . . . .
Immediate health
care cost trend
rate . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ultimate health

care cost trend
rate . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Nominal average
rate of price
inflation . . . . . . . .

December 31, 2017

Brazil

December 31, 2016

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other benefits

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other benefits

9.74% - 9.85%

9.84% 9.74% - 9.91% 10.98% - 11.14%

10.98%

10.98% - 11.09%

9.74% - 9.85%

9.84%

N/A

10.98% - 11.14%

10.98%

4.25% - 6.34% 4.25% - 6.34%

N/A

4.85% - 5.95%

6.95%

4.85%

4.85%

N/A

6.00%

6.00%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

7.38%

7.38%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

8.00%

8.00%

4.25%

4.25%

4.25%

4.85%

4.85%

4.85%

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Underfunded
pension plans

Other benefits

Underfunded
pension plans

Other benefits

Foreign

Discount rate to determine benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nominal average rate to determine expense/ income . . . . . . . .
Nominal average rate of salary increase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nominal average rate of benefit increase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Immediate health care cost trend rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ultimate health care cost trend rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nominal average rate of price inflation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.26%
3.84%
3.27%
N/A
N/A
N/A
2.10%

3.44%
N/A
N/A
3.00%
5.99%
4.56%
2.10%

3.84%
4.01%
4.05%
N/A
N/A
N/A
2.00%

3.90%
N/A
N/A
3.00%
6.30%
4.50%
2.00%

F-88
F-88

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

For the sensitivity analysis, the Company considers the effect of 1% in nominal discount rate to determine
the actuarial liability. The effects of this change in actuarial liabilities in premise and adopted the average
duration of the plan are as follows:

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other benefits

December 31, 2017

Nominal discount rate—1% increase
Actuarial liability balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assumptions made . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nominal discount rate—1% reduction
Actuarial liability balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assumptions made . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,126
10.75%

3,715

8.75%

3,943

4.85%

5,073

2.85%

1,232

5.61%

1,620

3.61%

viii. Assets of pension plans

Brazilian plan assets as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 includes respectively (i) investments in a portfolio
of  Vale’s  stock  and  other  instruments  in  the  amount  of  US$37  and  US$26  and  (ii)  Brazilian  Federal
Government securities in the amount of US$4,617 and US$4,374.

Foreign plan assets as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 includes Canadian Government securities in the
amount of US$864 and US$735, respectively.

ix. Overfunded pension plans

Assets by category are as follows:

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

Total

Debt securities—Corporate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt securities—Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments funds—Fixed Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments funds—Equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
International investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Structured investments—Private Equity funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Structured investments—Real estate funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Real estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans to participants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–
2,757
2,515
531
24
–
–
–
–

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5,827

72
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

72

Funds not related to risk plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fair value of plan assets at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–
–
–
–
–
196
15
365
224

800

72
2,757
2,515
531
24
196
15
365
224

–
2,612
2,411
168
12
217
–
–
–

6,699

5,420

(1,871)

4,828

117
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

117

–
–
–
–
–
140
10
370
260

780

117
2,612
2,411
168
12
357
10
370
260

6,317

(1,623)

4,694

F-89
F-89

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

Measurement of overfunded plan assets at fair value with no observable market variables (level 3) are as
follows:

Loans to
Private equity funds Real estate funds Real estate participants

Total

Balance as at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets sold during the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer to held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance as at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets sold during the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer to held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance as at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

x. Underfunded pension plans

Assets by category are as follows:

136

(19)
30
(23)
26
(10)

140

37
31
(8)
(4)
–

196

6

–
3
–
1
–

10

(2)
8
–
(1)
–

15

319

3
2
(17)
63
–

370

4
13
(17)
(5)
–

365

249

710

33
55
(121)
46
(2)

17
90
(161)
136
(12)

260

780

29
75
(137)
(3)
–

68
127
(162)
(13)
–

224

800

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt securities—Corporate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt securities—Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments funds—Fixed Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments funds—Equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
International investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Structured investments—Private Equity funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Real estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans to participants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4
1,364
–
141
159
8
–
97
–
–
–

28
3
338
801
–
392
–
–
–
–
–

–
32
– 1,367
338
–
942
–
159
–
400
–
–
–
294
197
44
44
5
5
195
195

–
1,240
–
83
142
92
–
–
–
–
–

24
–
10
736
307
368
27
–
–
–
–

–
24
– 1,240
10
–
819
–
449
–
460
–
27
–
187
187
24
24
6
6
173
173

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,773

1,562

441 3,776

1,557

1,472

390 3,419

F-90
F-90

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

Measurement of underfunded plan assets at fair value with no observable market variables (level 3) are as
follows:

Balance as at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets sold during the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance as at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets sold during the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance as at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xi. Disbursement of future cash flow

Private equity funds

Real estate

Loans to
participants

98

15
176
(110)
8

187

8
13
(18)
7

197

20

–
–
–
4

24

1
17
(1)
3

44

5

–
–
–
1

6

–
–
–
(1)

5

Others

159

9
–
–
5

173

10
–
–
12

195

Total

282

24
176
(110)
18

390

19
30
(19)
21

441

Vale expects to disburse US$140 in 2018 in relation to pension plans and other benefits.

xii. Expected benefit payments

The expected benefit payments, which reflect future services, are as follows:

Overfunded
pension plans

Underfunded
pension plans

Other benefits

December 31, 2017

2018. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2020. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2021. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2022. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2023 and thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

97
102
108
82
117
641

251
252
252
253
256
1,311

67
68
70
72
74
397

b) Profit sharing program (‘‘PLR’’)

The Company recorded as cost of goods sold and services rendered and other operating expenses related
to the profit sharing program US$780, US$331 and US$42 for the years ended on December 31, 2017, 2016
and 2015, respectively.

F-91
F-91

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

c) Long-term compensation plan

For the long-term awarding of eligible executives, the Company compensation plans includes Matching
Program and Performance Share Unit Program—PSU, with three to four years-vesting cycles, respectively,
with the aim of encouraging employee’s retention and stimulating their performance.

For the Matching program, the participants can acquire Vale’s common shares in the market without any
benefits  being  provided  by  Vale.  If  the  shares  acquired  are  held  for  a  period  of  three  years  and  the
participants keep it employment relationship with Vale, the participant is entitled to receive from Vale an
award in shares, equivalent to the number of shares originally acquired by the executive. It should be
noted that, although a specific custodian of the shares is defined by Vale, the share initially purchased by
the executives have no restriction and can be sold at any time. However, if it’s done before the end of the
three-year-vesting period, they lose the entitlement of receiving the related award paid by Vale.

For PSU program, the eligible executives have the opportunity to receive during a four year-vesting cycle,
an award equivalent to the market value of a determined number of common shares and conditioned to
Vale’s performance factor measured as an indicator of total return to the shareholders (TSR). This award is
paid in cash and can occur in cumulative installments of 20% (at the end of 2nd year), 30% (at the end of
3rd year) and 50% (at the end of 4th year), conditioned to the performance factor of each year.

Liabilities  of  the  plans  are  measured  at  fair  value  at  every  reporting  period,  based  on  market  rates.
Compensation costs incurred are recognized by the defined vesting period of three or four years. For the
years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 the Company recognized in the income statement the
amounts of US$65, US$37 and US$29, respectively, related to long term compensation plan.

Accounting policy

Employee benefits

i. Current benefits—wages, vacations and related taxes

Payments of benefits such as wages or accrued vacation, as well the related social security taxes over those
benefits are recognized monthly in income, on an accruals basis.

ii. Current benefits—profit sharing program

The Company has the Annual Incentive Program (AIP) based on Team and business unit’s contribution and
Company-wide performance through operational cash generation. The Company makes an accrual based
on evaluation periodic of goals achieved and Company result, using the accrual basis and recognition of
present  obligation  arising  from  past  events  in  the  estimated  outflow  of  resources  in  the  future.  The
accrual is recorded as cost of goods sold and services rendered or operating expenses in accordance with
the activity of each employee.

F-92
F-92

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

28. Employee benefits (Continued)

iii. Non-current benefits—long-term incentive programs

The Company has established a procedure for awarding certain eligible executives (Matching and Virtual
Shares  Programs)  with  the  goal  of  encouraging  employee  retention  and  optimum  performance.  Plan
liabilities are measured at each reporting date, at their fair values, based on market prices. Obligations are
measured at each reporting date, at fair values based on market prices. The compensation costs incurred
are recognized in income during the vesting period as defined.

iv. Non-current benefits—pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

The Company has several retirement plans for its employees.

For defined contribution plans, the Company’s obligations are limited to a monthly contribution linked to
a pre-defined percentage of the remuneration of employees enrolled in to these plans.

For  defined  benefit  plans,  actuarial  calculations  are  periodically  obtained  for  liabilities  determined  in
accordance with the Projected Unit Credit Method in order to estimate the Company’s obligation. The
liability  recognized  in  the  statement  of  financial  position  represents  the  present  value  of  the  defined
benefit obligation as at that date, less the fair value of plan assets. The Company recognized in the income
statement the costs of services, the interest expense of the obligations and the interest income of the plan
assets. The remeasurement of gains and losses, return on plan assets (excluding the amount of interest on
return of assets, which is recognized in income for the year) and changes in the effect of the ceiling of the
active and onerous liabilities are recognized in comprehensive income for the year.

For overfunded plans, the Company does not recognize any assets or benefits in the statement of financial
position or income statement until such time as the use of the surplus is clearly defined. For underfunded
plans, the Company recognizes actuarial liabilities and results arising from the actuarial valuation.

Critical accounting estimates and judgments

Post-retirement benefits for employees—The amount recognized and disclosed depend on a number of
factors  that  are  determined  based  on  actuarial  calculations  using  various  assumptions  in  order  to
determine costs and liabilities. One of these assumptions is selection and use of the discount rate. Any
changes to these assumptions will affect the amount recognized.

At the end of each year the Company and external actuaries review the assumptions that will be used for
the following year. These assumptions are used in determining the fair values of assets and liabilities, costs
and  expenses  and  the  future  values  of  estimated  cash  outflows,  which  are  recorded  in  the  plan
obligations.

F-93
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

29. Stockholders’ equity

a) Conversion of preferred shares and merger of Valepar S.A.

At  the  General  Extraordinary  Stockholders’  Meeting,  held  on  June  27,  2017,  approved  the  voluntary
conversion of Vale class ‘‘A’’ preferred share into common shares (‘‘ON’’), based on the conversion rate of
0.9342 common shares for each Vale class ‘‘A’’ preferred share.

On  August  11,  2017,  the  voluntary  conversion  period  expired  and  an  aggregate  of  1,660,581,830
preferred shares (excluding treasury shares), corresponding to 84.4% of the total outstanding preferred
shares, were converted into common shares.

At  the  Extraordinary  Stockholders’  Meeting  of  Valepar  S.A,  held  on  August  14,  2017,  stockholders
approved  the  merger  of  Valepar  with  and  into  Vale.  Thereafter,  Valepar  ceases  to  exist  and,  as
consequence,  its  stockholders  hold  direct  interests  in  Vale,  through  the  1.2065  Vale  common  shares
received for each Valepar share held by them. As a result, Vale issued 173,543,667 new common shares to
Valepar’s stockholders, all registered and without par value.

On August 14, 2017, the merger was accounted in Vale’s stockholders’ equity as capital reserve, based on
the accounting appraisal report of Valepar’s net assets, amounting US$1,158.

The impacts arising from the merger in the Company’s assets and liabilities are as follows:

Current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Judicial deposits (note 27(c)) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible (note 17) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provisions for litigation (note 27(a)) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taxes payable (note 8) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

August 14, 2017

24
951
964

20
631
130

Net assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,158

At the Extraordinary Stockholders’ Meeting and at the Special Stockholders’ Meeting, held on October 18,
2017,  preferred  stockholders  approved  the  conversion  of  all  Class  ‘‘A’’  preferred  shares  into  common
shares of the Company, in the proportion of 0.9342 common share for each class ‘‘A’’ preferred share.
During the period from October 20, 2017 until November 21, 2017, inclusive, the stockholders holding
Vale’s Class ‘‘A’’ preferred shares dissenting with regard to the resolution of the Special Meeting, had the
right  to  withdraw  from  the  Company,  receiving  R$24.26  per  share  which  is  the  equivalent  of  Vale
stockholders’ equity per share at December 31, 2016. At the end of this period, 10,397 common shares
were converted into treasury shares (corresponding to 11,130 preferred shares).

At the Extraordinary Stockholders’ Meeting held on December 21, 2017 approved the migration of the
Company to the special listing segment of B3 S.A. (‘‘Novo Mercado’’), following the conversion of the
class ‘‘A’’ preferred shares into common shares.

F-94
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

29. Stockholders’ equity (Continued)

The stockholders’ equity corresponds to 5,284,474,770 common shares and 12 preferred shares special
class (‘‘PNE’’ or ‘‘Golden shares’’), and there were no changes in the amount of share capital.

Share position before
conversion

Conversion of the
preferred shares

Issue of new shares

Share position after
conversion

Shares outstanding
ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PNA/PNE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Shares in treasury
ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PNA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3,185,653,000
1,967,721,926

1,838,235,414
(1,967,721,914)

5,153,374,926

(129,486,500)

31,535,402
59,405,792

55,507,287
(59,405,792)

173,543,667
–

173,543,667

–
–

5,197,432,081
12

5,197,432,093

87,042,689
–

Total issued shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5,244,316,120

(133,385,005)

173,543,667

5,284,474,782

The basic and diluted earnings per share were recalculated considering the changes in the number of
shares, as described above. The comparative information for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015
were restated, as presented in note 9.

b) Share capital

As at December 31, 2017, the share capital was US$61,614 corresponding to 5,284,474,782 shares issued
and fully paid without par value.

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

ON

PNE

Total

ON

PNA

Total

Stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Litel Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. and Litela

Participa¸c ˜oes S.A.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BNDES Participa¸c ˜oes S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bradespar S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mitsui & Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Valepar S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brazilian Government (Golden Share) .
Foreign investors—ADRs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign institutional investors in local
market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FMP—FGTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PIBB—Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Institutional investors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Retail investors in Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,108,483,410
401,457,757
332,965,266
286,347,055
–
–
1,292,115,112

1,129,164,954
62,061,672
2,632,618
277,003,730
305,200,507

Shares outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shares in treasury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5,197,432,081
87,042,689

Total issued shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5,284,474,770

Share capital per class of shares (in

–
–
–
–
–
12
–

–
–
–
–
–

12
–

12

1,108,483,410
401,457,757
332,965,266
286,347,055
–
12
1,292,115,112

1,129,164,954
62,061,672
2,632,618
277,003,730
305,200,507

–
206,378,882
–
–
1,716,435,045
–
786,067,634

262,868,264
70,662,746
741,730
104,510,549
37,988,150

–
66,185,272
–
–
20,340,000
12
610,880,671

825,753,408
–
1,171,101
133,496,260
309,895,202

–
272,564,154
–
–
1,736,775,045
12
1,396,948,305

1,088,621,672
70,662,746
1,912,831
238,006,809
347,883,352

5,197,432,093
87,042,689

3,185,653,000
31,535,402

1,967,721,926
59,405,792

5,153,374,926
90,941,194

5,284,474,782

3,217,188,402

2,027,127,718

5,244,316,120

millions) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total authorized shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

61,614
7,000,000,000

–
–

61,614
7,000,000,000

38,525
3,600,000,000

23,089
7,200,000,000

61,614
10,800,000,000

F-95
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

29. Stockholders’ equity (Continued)

The Board of Directors may, regardless of changes to by-laws, issue new common shares (up to the total
authorized shares), including the capitalization of profits and reserves to the extent authorized.

The Company repurchases its shares to hold in treasury for future sale or cancellation. These shares are
recorded in a specific account as a reduction of stockholders´ equity at their acquisition value and carried
at cost. These programs are approved by the Board of Directors with a determined terms and numbers of
shares. Currently, the Company does not have any share repurchase program.

Incremental  costs  directly  attributable  to  the  issue  of  new  shares  or  options  are  recognized  in
stockholders’ equity as a deduction from the amount raised, net of taxes.

c) Remuneration to the Company’s stockholders

The Company’s by-laws determine the minimum remuneration to stockholders of 25% of net income,
after appropriations to legal reserve and tax incentive reserve, as follows:

Net income of the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appropriation to legal reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appropriation to tax incentive reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income after appropriations to legal reserve and tax incentive reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Minimum mandatory remuneration(i) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appropriation to investments reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2017

5,507
(275)
(216)

5,016
1,475
3,541

(i)

The  minimum  mandatory  remuneration  were  based  on  interest  on  capital  and  will  be  paid  in  2018,  in  the  amount  of
US$0.28378015600 per share. Due to the Brazilian legislation, the Company must retain and collect the amount of withholding tax
(15%) and cannot be considered when charging the interest on capital to the mandatory dividend.

On December 14, 2017, the Board of Directors approved the payment in advance of the stockholders’
remuneration in the gross amount of US$682 (R$2,183 million) based on the interest on capital, as an
anticipation relating to 2017. The Board of Directors approved on February 26, 2018 (subsequent event),
the  complementary  payment  to  the  stockholders’  remuneration  in  the  gross  amount  of  US$793
(R$2,538  million)  based  on  the  interest  on  capital.  Together,  these  resolutions  comprise  the  minimum
mandatory remuneration for the year ended December 31, 2017 that will be paid in March 2018.

The  remuneration  paid  to  stockholders  based  on  the  on  interest  on  capital  during  2017  and  2016
amounted US$1,456 (US$0.282400343 per share) and US$250 (US$0.048511898 per share), respectively. All
remuneration was based on interest on capital for those years.

F-96
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

29. Stockholders’ equity (Continued)

d) Profit reserves

The amount of profit reserves are distributed as follows:

Legal reserve

Tax incentive
reserve

Investments reserve

Additional
remuneration
reserve

Total of profit
reserves

Balance as at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . .

Allocation of Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance as at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . .

Allocation of Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends and interest on capital of

Vale’s stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance as at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . .

985

204
195

1,384

275

–
(29)

1,630

–

377
–

377

216

–
(13)

580

–

1,808
–

1,808

3,541

–
(140)

5,209

–

634
–

634

–

(658)
24

–

985

3,023
195

4,203

4,032

(658)
(158)

7,419

Legal  reserve—Is  a  legal  requirement  for  Brazilian  public  companies  to  retain  5%  of  the  annual  net
income up to 20% of the capital. The reserve can only be used to compensate losses or to increase capital.

Tax incentive reserve—Results from the option to designate a portion of the income tax for investments
in projects approved by the Brazilian Government as well as tax incentives.

Investment  reserve—Aims  to  ensure  the  maintenance  and  development  of  the  main  activities  that
comprise  the  Company’s  operations  and  to  retain  budgeted  capital  for  investments.  Based  on  the
Company’s  by-laws,  this  reserve  is  capped  to  50%  of  the  annual  distributable  net  income,  up  to  the
amount of the share capital. The remaining balance over than 50% of the annual distributable net income
is retained based on the capital investments budget submitted for approval in the Stockholder’s Meeting,
pursuant to article 196 of the Law 6,404.

Additional remuneration reserve—Arises from the remuneration proposed by Management that exceeds
the  minimum  mandatory  remuneration  of  25%  of  the  adjusted  net  income.  On  April  20,  2017,
Stockholders  approved  the  payment  of  the  additional  remuneration  in  relation  to  the  year  ended
December 31, 2016.

F-97
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12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

29. Stockholders’ equity (Continued)

e) Unrealized fair value gain (losses)

Retirement
benefit
obligations

Cash flow
hedge

Available-for-sale
financial
instruments

Conversion
shares

Total gain
(losses)

Balance as at December 31, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance as at December 31, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance as at December 31, 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(703)

(70)
(36)

(809)

(46)
10

(845)

(6)

7
(1)

–

–
–

–

(1)

1
–

–

–
–

–

(282)

–
(56)

(992)

(62)
(93)

(338)

(1,147)

–
–

(46)
10

(338)

(1,183)

f) Shareholders Agreement

On the date of the merger of Valepar into Vale, August 14, 2017, the former Controlling Shareholders of
Valepar executed a new shareholders’ agreement (‘‘Vale Agreement’’) that binds only 20% of the totality
of Vale’s common shares issued by Vale, and will be in force until November 9, 2020, with no provision for
renewal.

For 6 months from the date of entry into force of the Vale Agreement, the Shareholders will be obligated
not  to  transfer,  by  any  means,  either  directly  or  indirectly,  Vale  shares  they  receive  as  a  result  of  the
implementation  of  the  Proposal  (‘‘Lock-Up’’),  except  for  (i)  the  transfer  of  Vale’s  shares  by  the
Shareholders to their affiliates and their current shareholders, provided that such transferred shares shall
remain subject to the Lock-Up, and (ii) the transfer of shares held by the Shareholders prior to the merger
of Valepar.

Accounting policy

Stockholder’s  remuneration—The  stockholder’s  remuneration  is  paid  on  dividends  and  interest  on
capital. This remuneration is recognized as a liability in the financial statements of the Company based on
bylaws. Any amount above the minimum mandatory remuneration approved by the by-laws shall only be
recognized in current liabilities on the date that is approved by stockholders.

The Company is permitted to distribute interest attributable to stockholders’ equity. The calculation is
based on the stockholders’ equity amounts as stated in the statutory accounting records and the interest
rate applied may not exceed the Brazilian Government Long-term Interest Rate (‘‘TJLP’’) determined by
the Central Bank of Brazil. Also, such interest may not exceed 50% of the net income for the year or 50%
of retained earnings plus profit reserves as determined by Brazilian corporate law.

The benefit to the Company, as opposed to making a dividend payment, is a reduction in the income tax
burden because this interest charge is tax deductible in Brazil. Income tax of 15% is withheld on behalf of

F-98
F-98

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

29. Stockholders’ equity (Continued)

the  stockholders  relative  to  the  interest  distribution.  Under  Brazilian  law,  interest  attributed  to
stockholders’  equity  is  considered  as  part  of  the  annual  minimum  mandatory  dividend.  This  notional
interest  distribution  is  treated  for  accounting  purposes  as  a  deduction  from  stockholders’  equity  in  a
manner similar to a dividend and the tax deductibility recorded in the income statement.

30. Related parties

The  Company’s  related  parties  are  predominantly  subsidiaries,  joint  ventures,  associates  and  key
management personnel of the Company. Transactions between the parent company and its subsidiaries
are eliminated on consolidation and are not disclosed in this note. Details of material non-consolidated
entities are disclosed in note 15.

Related  party  transactions  were  made  by  the  Company  on  terms  equivalent  to  those  that  prevail  in
arm´s-length transactions, observing the price and usual market conditions, therefore these transactions
are under terms that are no less favorable to the Company than those arranged with third parties.

Purchases, accounts receivable and other assets, and accounts payable and other liabilities relates largely
to amounts charged by joint ventures and associates related to the pelletizing plants lease and railway
transportation services.

Information about related party transactions and effects on the financial statements is set out below:

a) Transactions with related parties

Joint
Ventures

Associates

Total

Joint
Ventures

Associates

Total

Joint
Ventures

Associates

Total

2017

2016

2015

Year ended December 31

Net operating

revenue . . . . . . . . . .
Cost and operating
expenses . . . . . . . . .
Financial result . . . . .

399

(1,943)
118

337

(29)
(14)

736

166

(1,972)
104

(916)
(29)

346

(50)
(20)

512

139

353

492

(966)
(49)

(815)
–

(83)
8

(898)
8

Net operating revenue relates to sale of iron ore to the steelmakers and right to use capacity on railroads.

Cost and operating expenses mostly relates to the operational leases of the pelletizing plants. Further
information in relation to these operational leases is disclosed in note 31.

F-99
F-99

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

30. Related parties (Continued)

b) Outstanding balances with related parties

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Joint
Ventures

Associates

Total

Joint
Ventures

Associates

Total

Assets
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans to related parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Liabilities
Supplier and contractors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loans from related parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

73
112
4,526
17

192
–
612

38
14
–
–

20
1,245
–

111
126
4,526
17

212
1,245
612

69
53
–
–

95
–
359

35
20
–
–

11
440
–

104
73
–
–

106
440
359

In  2017,  the  loans  from/to  related  parties  mainly  arose  in  connection  with  the  transaction  of  Nacala’s
corridor  business  (further  information  in  relation  to  this  transaction  is  disclosed  in  note  15).  Loans  to
related parties corresponds to the loan of US$4,526 to Nacala BV, which carries interest at 7.44% p.a. The
loan from related parties mainly relates to the loan from Pangea Emirates Ltd. in the amount of US$1,166,
which carries interest at 6.54% p.a.

c) The key management personnel remuneration is as follows:

Short-term benefits
Wages or pro-labor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Direct and indirect benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Profit sharing program (‘‘PLR’’) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Long-term benefits
Shares based . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Severance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year ended December 31

2017

2016

2015

9
10
10

29

16

7

52

8
4
–

12

1

5

18

8
6
8

22

1

6

29

F-100
F-100

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

31. Commitments

a) Contractual obligations

The table below presents the annual minimum future payments, which are required and non-cancelable,
related to contractual obligations of the Company as of December 31.

Operating lease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total minimum payments required . . . . . . . .

2018

283
2,191

2,474

2019

192
1,021

1,213

2020

179
686

865

2021

178
604

782

2022 and
thereafter

221
3,761

Total

1,053
8,263

3,982

9,316

Operating  lease—Vale  has  operating  lease  agreements  with  its  joint  ventures  Companhia  Coreano-
Brasileira  de  Pelotiza¸c ˜ao,  Companhia  Hispano-Brasileira  de  Pelotiza¸c ˜ao,  Companhia  ´Italo-Brasileira  de
Pelotiza¸c ˜ao and Companhia Nipo-Brasileira de Pelotiza¸c ˜ao (together ‘‘pelletizing plants’’), in which the
Company leases their pelletizing plants. These agreements are renewable and last from 3 up to 10 years.
The  minimum  future  payments  have  been  calculated  considering  that  all  contracts  will  be  renewed
automatically.

The Company also has operating leases for the exploration and processing of iron ore with joint ventures,
port operations with third parties and property leases for its operational facilities with third parties.

The total amount of operational leasing expenses for the year ended on December 31, 2017, 2016 and
2015 were US$664, US$266 and US$329, respectively.

Purchase obligations—The purchase obligations derive mainly from contracts for the acquisition of fuel,
energy and the acquisition of raw materials and services.

b) Guarantees provided

As of December 31, 2017, corporate guarantees provided by Vale (within the limit of its direct or indirect
interest) for the companies Norte Energia S.A. and Companhia Sider ´urgica do Pec ´em S.A. are US$378 and
US$1,497, respectively.

The net book value of property, plant and equipment pledged to secure judicial claims on December 31,
2017 and 2016 were US$15 and US$35, respectively.

c) Nickel Operations—Indonesia

The  Company´s  subsidiary  PT  Vale  Indonesia  Tbk  (‘‘PTVI’’),  a  public  company  in  Indonesia,  has  an
agreement in place with the Government of Indonesia to operate its mining licenses and it includes a
commitment  to  divest  an  additional  20%  of  PTVI’s  shares  to  Indonesian  participants  by  October  2019
(approximately  20%  of  PTVI’s  shares  are  already  registered  on  the  Indonesian  Stock  Exchange).  The

F-101
F-101

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

31. Commitments (Continued)

existing major shareholders, Vale Canada and Sumitomo Metal Mining, Co., Ltd., will comply with the
divestment obligation on a pro rata basis.

32. Risk management

Vale  considers  that  an  effective  risk  management  is  key  to  support  the  achievement  of  the  company
objectives and to ensure the financial strength and flexibility of the company and the business continuity.

Therefore, Vale has developed its risk management strategy in order to provide an integrated approach
of the risks the company is exposed to, considering not only the risks generated by variables traded in
financial markets (market risk) and those arising from liquidity risk, but also the risk from counterparties
obligations (credit risk) and those relating to inadequate or failed internal processes, people, systems or
external events (operational risk), among others.

a) Risk management policy

The Board of Directors established a corporate risk management policy defining principles and guidelines
applicable to this process in the company and the corresponding governance structure.

This policy determines that corporate risks should be measured and monitored, regularly, in an integrated
manner,  in  order  to  ensure  that  the  company  overall  risk  level  remains  aligned  with  its  strategic
guidelines.

The  Executive  Risk  Management  Committee,  created  by  the  Board  of  Directors,  is  responsible  for
supporting  the  Executive  Board 
issuing  opinions  and
recommendations. It is also responsible for the supervision and revision of the principles and instruments
of corporate risk management.

in  the  risk  management  decisions, 

The  Executive  Board  is  responsible  for  the  approval  of  the  policy  deployment  into  norms,  rules  and
responsibilities and for reporting to the Board of Directors about such procedures.

The  risk  management  norms  and  instructions  complement  the  corporate  risk  management  policy  and
define practices, processes, controls, roles and responsibilities.

The Company may, when necessary, allocate specific risk limits to management activities, including but
not limited to, market risk limit, corporate and sovereign credit limit, in accordance with the acceptable
corporate risk limit.

b) Liquidity risk management

The liquidity risk arises from the possibility that Vale might not perform its obligations on due dates, as
well as face difficulties to meet its cash requirements due to market liquidity constraints.

F-102
F-102

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

32. Risk management (Continued)

See note 20 ‘‘Loans, borrowing, cash and cash equivalents and financial investments’’ for details on the
Company’s liquidity risk.

c) Credit risk management

Vale’s  exposure  to  credit  risk  arises  from  trade  receivables,  derivative  transactions,  guarantees,  down
payment for suppliers and cash investments. Our credit risk management process provides a framework
for assessing and managing counterparties’ credit risk and for maintaining our risk at an acceptable level.

(i) Commercial credit risk management

See note 10 ‘‘Accounts receivables’’ for details on commercial credit risk.

(ii) Treasury credit risk management

To manage the credit exposure arising from cash investments and derivative instruments, credit limits are
approved to each counterparty with whom we have credit exposure.

Furthermore, we control the portfolio diversification and monitor different indicators of solvency and
liquidity of the different counterparties that were approved for trading.

d) Market risk management

Vale is exposed to the behavior of several market risk factors that can impact its cash flow. The assessment
of  this  potential  impact  arising  from  the  volatility  of  risk  factors  and  their  correlations  is  performed
periodically to support the decision making process regarding the risk management strategy, that may
incorporate financial instruments, including derivatives.

The portfolio of these financial instruments is monitored on a monthly basis, enabling financial results
surveillance and its impact on cash flow.

Considering  the  nature  of  Vale’s  business  and  operations,  the  main  market  risk  factors  which  the
Company is exposed to are:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Foreign exchange and interest rates;

Product prices and input costs.

F-103
F-103

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

32. Risk management (Continued)

e) Foreign exchange and interest rate risk

The company’s cash flow is subjected to volatility of several currencies, as its product are predominantly
priced in US dollar, while most of the costs, disbursements and investments are denominated in other
currencies, mainly Brazilian real and Canadian dollar.

In order to reduce the potential impact that arises from this currency mismatch, derivatives instruments
may be used as a risk mitigation strategy.

Vale implements hedge transactions to protect its cash flow against the market risks that arises from its
debt obligations—mainly currency volatility. The hedges cover most of the debts in Brazilian reais and
euros. We use swap and forward transactions to convert debt linked to Brazilian real and Euros into US
dollar, with volumes, flows and settlement dates similar to those of the debt instruments—or sometimes
lower, subject to market liquidity conditions.

Hedging  instruments  with  shorter  settlement  dates  are  renegotiated  through  time  so  that  their  final
maturity matches—or becomes closer—to the debts‘ final maturity. At each settlement date, the results of
the  swap  and  forward  transactions  partially  offset  the  impact  of  the  foreign  exchange  rate  in  Vale’s
obligations, contributing to stabilize the cash disbursements in US dollar.

Vale has also exposure to interest rates risks over loans and financings. The US Dollar floating rate debt in
the portfolio consists mainly of loans including export pre-payments, commercial banks and multilateral
organizations loans. In general, such debt instruments are indexed to the LIBOR (London Interbank Offer
Rate) in US dollar. We take advantage of the potential correlation between commodity prices and U.S.
dollar floating interest rates as a partial natural hedge for our cash flow.

f) Risk of product and input prices

Vale is also exposed to market risks including commodities price and input price volatilities. In accordance
with risk management policy, risk mitigation strategies involving commodities can be used to adjust the
cash flow risk profile and reduce Vale’s cash flow volatility. For this kind of risk mitigation strategy, Vale
uses predominantly forwards, futures or zero-cost collars.

g) Operational risk management

The  operational  risk  management  is  the  structured  approach  that  Vale  uses  to  manage  uncertainty
related to possible inadequate or failure in internal processes, people, systems and external events, in
accordance with the principles and guidelines of ISO 31000.

The  main  operational  risks  are  periodically  monitored,  ensuring  the  effectiveness  of  preventive  and
mitigating key controls in place and the execution of the risk treatment strategy (implementation of new
or improved controls, changes in the risk environment, risk sharing by contracting insurance, provisioning
of resources, etc.).

F-104
F-104

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

32. Risk management (Continued)

Therefore, the Company seeks to have a clear view of its major risks, the best cost-benefit mitigation plans
and the effectiveness of the controls in place, monitoring the potential impact of operational risk and
allocating capital efficiently.

h) Capital management

The  Company’s  policy  aims  at  establishing  a  capital  structure  that  will  ensure  the  continuity  of  your
business  in  the  long  term.  Within  this  perspective,  the  Company  has  been  able  to  deliver  value  to
stockholders through dividend payments and capital gain, and at the same time maintain a debt profile
suitable  for  its  activities,  with  an  amortization  well  distributed  over  the  years,  thus  avoiding  a
concentration in one specific period.

i) Insurance

Vale  contracts  several  types  of  insurance  policies,  such  as  operational  risk  policy,  engineering  risks
insurance  (projects),  civil  responsibility,  life  insurance  policy  for  their  employees,  among  others.  The
coverage of these policies is similar to the ones used in general by the mining industry and is issued in line
with  the  objectives  defined  by  the  Company,  with  the  corporate  risk  management  policy  and  the
limitation  imposed  by  the  insurance  and  reinsurance  global  market.  In  general,  the  company’s  assets
directly related with its operations are included in the coverage of insurance policies.

Insurance management is performed with the support of existing insurance committees in the various
operational areas of the Company. Among the management instruments, Vale uses captive reinsurance to
balance  the  price  on  reinsurance  contracts  with  the  market,  as  well  as,  enable  direct  access  to  key
international markets of insurance and reinsurance.

33. Additional information about derivatives financial instruments

a) Sensitivity analysis of derivative financial instruments.

The following tables present the potential value of the instruments given hypothetical stress scenarios for
the main market risk factors that impact the derivatives positions. The scenarios were defined as follows:

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

(cid:127)

Probable: the probable scenario was based on the estimated risk variables that were used on
pricing the derivative instruments as at December 31, 2017.

Scenario  I: fair  value  estimated  considering  a  25%  deterioration  in  the  associated  risk
variables

Scenario  II: fair  value  estimated  considering  a  50%  deterioration  in  the  associated  risk
variables

F-105
F-105

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

33. Additional information about derivatives financial instruments (Continued)

The curves used on the pricing of derivatives instruments were developed based on data from B3 S.A.,
Central Bank of Brazil, London Metals Exchange and Bloomberg.

F-106
F-106

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

33. Additional information about derivatives financial instruments (Continued)

Instrument

Instrument’s main risk events

Probable

Scenario I

Scenario II

CDI vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Protected item: R$ denominated debt. . . . . . . .
TJLP vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Protected item: R$ denominated debt. . . . . . . .
TJLP vs. US$ floating rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Protected item: R$ denominated debt. . . . . . . .
R$ fixed rate vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . . . .

Protected item: R$ denominated debt. . . . . . . .
IPCA vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Protected item: R$ denominated debt. . . . . . . .
IPCA vs. CDI swap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Protected item: R$ denominated debt linked
to IPCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
EUR fixed rate vs. US$ fixed rate swap . . . . . .

Protected item: EUR denominated debt . . . . . .
Bunker Oil protection
Forwards and options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Protected item: Part of costs linked to

R$ depreciation
US$ interest rate inside Brazil decrease
Brazilian interest rate increase
R$ depreciation
R$ depreciation
US$ interest rate inside Brazil decrease
Brazilian interest rate increase
TJLP interest rate decrease
R$ depreciation
R$ depreciation
US$ interest rate inside Brazil decrease
Brazilian interest rate increase
TJLP interest rate decrease
R$ depreciation
R$ depreciation
US$ interest rate inside Brazil decrease
Brazilian interest rate increase
R$ depreciation
R$ depreciation
US$ interest rate inside Brazil decrease
Brazilian interest rate increase
IPCA index decrease
R$ depreciation
Brazilian interest rate increase
IPCA index decrease

IPCA index decrease
EUR depreciation
Euribor increase
US$ Libor decrease
EUR depreciation

Bunker Oil price decrease

bunker oil prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Bunker Oil price decrease

Nickel sales fixed price protection
Forwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nickel price decrease
Protected item: Part of nickel revenues with

fixed prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nickel price fluctuation

Purchase protection program
Nickel forwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nickel price increase
Protected item: Part of costs linked to nickel

prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nickel price increase

Copper forwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Protected item: Part of costs linked to

Copper price increase

copper prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Copper price increase

WPM warrants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WPM stock price decrease
Conversion options—VLI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VLI stock value increase
Options—MBR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MBR stock value decrease

(33)
(33)
(33)
n.a.
(380)
(380)
(380)
(380)
n.a.
(54)
(54)
(54)
(54)
n.a.
25
25
25
n.a.
(34)
(34)
(34)
(34)
n.a.
85
85

n.a.
23
23
23
n.a.

–

n.a.

24

n.a.

(0)

n.a.
(0.0)

n.a.
39
(57)
251

(300)
(42)
(35)
–
(705)
(395)
(405)
(403)
–
(83)
(54)
(55)
(55)
–
(57)
13
(2)
–
(150)
(39)
(50)
(43)
–
53
67

(67)
(158)
15
6
158

–

–

(6)

6

(1)

1
(0.2)

0.2
19
(92)
150

(567)
(53)
(37)
–
(1,029)
(409)
(427)
(425)
–
(112)
(56)
(57)
(56)
–
(138)
1
(25)
–
(266)
(44)
(64)
(52)
–
25
50

(50)
(338)
8
(12)
338

–

–

(37)

37

(2)

2
(0.3)

0.3
6
(137)
74

Instrument

Main risks

Probable

Scenario I

Scenario II

Embedded derivatives—Raw material

purchase (nickel) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Nickel price increase

Embedded derivatives—Raw material

purchase (copper) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Embedded derivatives—Gas purchase . . . . . .
Embedded derivatives—Guaranteed

Copper price increase
Pellet price increase

1

0
(2)

(7)

(5)
(4)

(14)

(9)
(7)

minimum return (VLI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

VLI stock value decrease

(133)

(262)

(472)

F-107
F-107

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

33. Additional information about derivatives financial instruments (Continued)

b) Financial counterparties’ ratings

The transactions of derivative instruments, cash and cash equivalents as well as investments are held with
financial  institutions  whose  exposure  limits  are  periodically  reviewed  and  approved  by  the  delegated
authority.  The  financial  institutions  credit  risk  is  performed  through  a  methodology  that  considers,
among other information, ratings provided by international rating agencies.

The  table  below  presents  the  ratings  in  foreign  currency  published  by  agencies  Moody’s  and  S&P
regarding the main financial institutions that we had outstanding positions as of December 31, 2017.

Long term ratings by counterparty

Moody’s

S&P

ANZ Australia and New Zealand Banking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Banco ABC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Banco Bradesco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Banco do Brasil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Banco de Credito del Peru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Banco do Nordeste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Banco Safra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Banco Santander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Banco Votorantim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bank of America. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bank of China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bank of Mandiri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bank of Nova Scotia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bank Rakyat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi UFJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Banpar ´a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Barclays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BBVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BNP Paribas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BTG Pactual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Caixa Economica Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Canadian Imperial Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
China Construction Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Citigroup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Credit Agricole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Credit Suisse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deutsche Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goldman Sachs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
HSBC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intesa Sanpaolo Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ita ´u Unibanco. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
JP Morgan Chase & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Macquarie Group Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mizuho Financial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Morgan Stanley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
National Australia Bank NAB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
National Bank of Oman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rabobank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Royal Bank of Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Societe Generale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Standard Bank Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Standard Chartered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
UBS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unicredit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Aa3
Ba3
Ba3
Ba3
Baa1
Ba3
Ba3
A3
Ba3
A3
A1
Baa3
A1
Baa3
A1
–
Baa2
A3
A2
Ba3
Ba3
A1
A1
Baa1
A1
Baa2
A3
A3
A2
A3
Ba3
A3
A3
A1
A3
Aa3
Baa3
Aa2
A1
A2
Ba1
A2
A1
Aa3
Baa1

AA(cid:7)
BB
BB
BB
BBB+
BB
BB
A(cid:7)
BB
A(cid:7)
A
BB+
A+
BB+
A(cid:7)
BB(cid:7)
BBB
BBB+
A
BB(cid:7)
BB
A+
A
BBB+
A
BBB+
A(cid:7)
BBB+
A
BBB
BB
A(cid:7)
BBB
A(cid:7)
BBB+
AA(cid:7)
–
A+
AA(cid:7)
A
–
BBB+
A(cid:7)
A(cid:7)
BBB

F-108
F-108

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

33. Additional information about derivatives financial instruments (Continued)

c) Market curves

(i) Products

Nickel

Maturity

Price (US$/ton)

Maturity

Price (US$/ton)

Maturity

Price (US$/ton)

SPOT
JAN18
FEB18
MAR18
APR18
MAY18

Copper

12,260
12,725
12,745
12,767
12,789
12,812

JUN18
JUL18
AUG18
SEP18
OCT18
NOV18

12,833
12,857
12,878
12,896
12,920
12,940

DEC18
DEC19
DEC20
DEC21

12,960
13,167
13,354
13,454

Maturity

Price (US$/lb)

Maturity

Price (US$/lb)

Maturity

Price (US$/lb)

SPOT
JAN18
FEB18
MAR18
APR18
MAY18

Bunker Oil

3.30
3.28
3.28
3.29
3.29
3.30

JUN18
JUL18
AUG18
SEP18
OCT18
NOV18

3.30
3.31
3.31
3.31
3.31
3.31

DEC18
DEC19
DEC20
DEC21

3.32
3.33
3.33
3.33

Maturity

Price (US$/ton)

Maturity

Price (US$/ton)

Maturity

Price (US$/ton)

SPOT
JAN18
FEB18
MAR18
APR18
MAY18

375
376
376
376
375
375

JUN18
JUL18
AUG18
SEP18
OCT18
NOV18

374
372
371
369
368
366

DEC18
DEC19
DEC20
DEC21

364
303
277
255

(ii) Foreign exchange and interest rates

US$—Brazil Interest Rate

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

01/02/18
02/01/18
03/01/18
04/02/18
05/02/18
06/01/18
07/02/18
08/01/18
09/03/18
10/01/18

2.86
4.04
3.27
2.96
2.84
2.78
2.73
2.72
2.69
2.71

11/01/18
12/03/18
01/02/19
04/01/19
07/01/19
10/01/19
01/02/20
04/01/20
07/01/20
10/01/20

2.77
2.71
2.82
2.85
2.91
2.94
3.02
3.03
3.06
3.13

01/04/21
04/01/21
07/01/21
10/01/21
01/03/22
04/01/22
07/01/22
10/03/22
01/02/23
07/03/23

3.19
3.22
3.26
3.31
3.42
3.43
3.44
3.48
3.60
3.65

F-109
F-109

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

33. Additional information about derivatives financial instruments (Continued)

US$ Interest Rate

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

1M
2M
3M
4M
5M

TJLP

1.57
1.62
1.70
1.77
1.81

6M
7M
8M
9M
10M

1.83
1.85
1.87
1.88
1.89

11M
12M
2Y
3Y
4Y

1.90
1.90
2.11
2.23
2.29

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

01/02/18
02/01/18
03/01/18
04/02/18
05/02/18
06/01/18
07/02/18
08/01/18
09/03/18
10/01/18

BRL Interest Rate

7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00

11/01/18
12/03/18
01/02/19
04/01/19
07/01/19
10/01/19
01/02/20
04/01/20
07/01/20
10/01/20

7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00

01/04/21
04/01/21
07/01/21
10/01/21
01/03/22
04/01/22
07/01/22
10/03/22
01/02/23
07/03/23

7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
7.00

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

01/02/18
02/01/18
03/01/18
04/02/18
05/02/18
06/01/18
07/02/18
08/01/18
09/03/18
10/01/18

6.89
6.90
6.82
6.76
6.73
6.71
6.66
6.67
6.70
6.72

11/01/18
12/03/18
01/02/19
04/01/19
07/01/19
10/01/19
01/02/20
04/01/20
07/01/20
10/01/20

6.74
6.80
6.87
7.11
7.41
7.78
8.07
8.38
8.63
8.88

01/04/21
04/01/21
07/01/21
10/01/21
01/03/22
04/01/22
07/01/22
10/03/22
01/02/23
07/03/23

9.06
9.24
9.40
9.55
9.66
9.75
9.84
9.92
9.99
10.12

Implicit Inflation (IPCA)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

01/02/18
02/01/18
03/01/18
04/02/18
05/02/18
06/01/18
07/02/18
08/01/18
09/03/18
10/01/18

4.27
4.27
4.20
4.14
4.11
4.09
4.04
4.05
4.08
4.10

11/01/18
12/03/18
01/02/19
04/01/19
07/01/19
10/01/19
01/02/20
04/01/20
07/01/20
10/01/20

4.12
4.18
4.24
4.33
4.52
4.57
4.62
4.66
4.69
4.72

01/04/21
04/01/21
07/01/21
10/01/21
01/03/22
04/01/22
07/01/22
10/03/22
01/02/23
07/03/23

4.72
4.75
4.78
4.81
4.82
4.82
4.84
4.85
4.87
4.91

F-110
F-110

12APR201813380467

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

Expressed in millions of United States dollar, unless otherwise stated

14NOV201111161635

33. Additional information about derivatives financial instruments (Continued)

EUR Interest Rate

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

1M
2M
3M
4M
5M

(cid:7)0.41
(cid:7)0.39
(cid:7)0.38
(cid:7)0.34
(cid:7)0.32

6M
7M
8M
9M
10M

(cid:7)0.30
(cid:7)0.29
(cid:7)0.28
(cid:7)0.27
(cid:7)0.27

11M
12M
2Y
3Y
4Y

(cid:7)0.26
(cid:7)0.26
(cid:7)0.15
0.01
0.15

CAD Interest Rate

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

Maturity

Rate (% p.a.)

1M
2M
3M
4M
5M

1.45
1.48
1.55
1.64
1.70

6M
7M
8M
9M
10M

1.73
1.49
1.31
1.19
1.07

11M
12M
2Y
3Y
4Y

0.99
0.91
2.09
2.22
2.30

Currencies—Ending rates

CAD/US$

0.7961

US$/BRL

3.3080

EUR/US$

1.1953

F-111
F-111

12APR201813380467