Vale signs MOU to explore natural gas

Rio de Janeiro, June 25, 2009 – Vale S.A. (Vale) informs that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. (Petrobras) to give Vale the exclusive right of acquisition of 25% of partneship in three blocks located at the area BM-ES-22, in the Brazilian state of Espirito Santo.

The assignment of rights will be submitted to the approval of the Brazilian oil and gas regulator agency, Agência Nacional do Petróleo, Gás Natural e Biocombustíveis (ANP).

The exploration of natural gas is part of Vale’s strategy of diversification and optimization of its energy matrix.

Vale