The federal appeals court has granted a key legal victory to Belo Sun Mining Corp, reinstating the Installation License for the company’s 100% owned Volta Grande Gold Project in Pará State, Brazil. On February 13, 2026, Desembargador Federal Flávio Jardim of TRF-1’s 6th Panel issued an order providing interim relief, which suspended a prior lower court ruling and restored the license’s full effectiveness. This ruling permits Belo Sun to continue with its planned installation and construction activities while the interlocutory appeal progresses.
The court’s decision follows a multi-year legal dispute that began with a suspension imposed in 2017. Belo Sun challenged the ongoing suspension through appropriate legal channels, arguing compliance with required studies, consultations and regulatory steps. The appeals court reviewed the record and concluded the company had satisfied the conditions previously set by TRF-1, enabling the temporary reinstatement of the installation permit.
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Why the appeals court reinstated the license
The ruling rested on detailed findings regarding technical documentation and the consultation process with Indigenous communities. The Court determined that the Indigenous Component Study (ECI) was prepared from primary data, meeting the standard previously mandated. Judges also assessed how consultations were conducted and evaluated the positions of federal bodies such as FUNAI (the National Indian Foundation).
Compliance with consultation and documentation requirements
In its analysis, the Court found that the consultation process followed the protocols agreed with the local Juruna (Yudjá) and Arara communities. The decision highlights that consultations were conducted consistent with the prior, free and informed consultation approach described in international norms and that those communities issued formal statements of support at various stages. The Court characterized the process as participatory, transparent and aligned with International Labour Organization Convention No. 169.
Administrative procedure and FUNAI’s change of position
The Court also addressed the procedural irregularities surrounding FUNAI’s later reversal of an earlier assessment that had found the ECI and consultation process sufficient. The appeals panel concluded that FUNAI’s change in position lacked a formal administrative process and did not include the technical justification required by applicable rules. As a result, any further demands by FUNAI—such as expanding the consultation scope—must follow a formal administrative pathway with clear technical reasoning before they can affect the license’s validity.
Implications for construction and project progress
With the Installation License reinstated, Belo Sun is authorized to move forward with construction and installation activities at Volta Grande. The company may resume operational work necessary to advance the project, subject to the ongoing interlocutory appeal and possible responses from respondents. The appeals procedure continues within TRF-1’s 6th Panel, where the merits of the interlocutory appeal will be examined and opposing parties may file their responses.
Next procedural steps and stakeholder engagement
Although the interim ruling is immediately actionable, it remains an interlocutory decision subject to review. Respondents were allowed to present counterarguments, and the appeal will proceed through the appellate panel. Belo Sun has stated it will provide timely updates as the judicial process unfolds. The company also emphasized continued collaboration with local communities and public authorities as it advances the project in line with recognized environmental and social standards.
Company statement and commitments
Clovis Torres, Belo Sun’s chairman and CEO, welcomed the ruling as an important milestone after a prolonged suspension that began in 2017. He acknowledged the efforts of the company team, community partners and government stakeholders who supported the process. Mr. Torres reiterated Belo Sun’s commitment to develop the project under best international mining practices and the highest social standards, aiming to deliver sustainable economic benefits and job opportunities to the region.
The company maintains that the Volta Grande development will adhere to environmental protections and socially responsible practices while contributing to local economic growth. For investors and stakeholders, the interim judicial relief reduces regulatory uncertainty in the near term by enabling physical work to resume, while the final appellate outcome remains pending.
About Belo Sun Mining Corp: Belo Sun is a mineral exploration and development company focused on advancing its gold assets in Brazil, with its primary project being the 100% owned Volta Grande Gold Project in Pará State. The company trades on the TSX under the symbol BSX and on the OTCQB under the symbol BSXGF. For official company updates, stakeholders should consult the company’s public filings and announcements.
