Vale SA engages in the production and exportation of iron ore, pellets, manganese, and iron alloys, which are raw materials needed for steelmaking. It operates through the following segments: Ferrous Minerals, Coal, Base Metals, Fertilizers and Others. The Ferrous Minerals segment includes the extraction of iron ore and the production of pellets, manganese ore, iron alloys, and coal, and logistics services. The Coal segment comprises the extraction of coal and its logistic services. The Base Metals segment involves the production of non-ferrous minerals, which include nickel, copper, and aluminum. The Fertilizers segment is comprised of three major groups of nutrients: potassium, phosphate, and nitrogen. The Others segment encompasses joint ventures and affiliates of other businesses. The company was founded on June 1, 1942 and is headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.