Altmin Planning Lithium Refinery Setup

Altmin becomes the first Indian company to secure a listing under the US-led Mineral Security Partnership (MSP)—a fourteen-nation alliance focused on building diverse, secure, and sustainable supply chains for critical minerals. The project, officially listed in August 2025, positions India to counter China’s dominance in the lithium refining space.

India’s Entry into Global Critical Minerals Network

The mines ministry had proposed Altmin’s lithium refining project in 2023 as India’s first candidate under MSP. With the listing now in place, Altmin said the recognition allows it to “take a significant leap forward” in refining lithium and advancing India’s supply chain independence.

Altmin’s Role in India’s Battery Ecosystem

Altmin manufactures cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries and specializes in Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry. The company also develops its own lithium-ion cell chemistries, strengthening domestic capabilities for electric mobility and energy storage solutions.

Strengthening Strategic Alliances

The MSP is designed to accelerate the development of critical mineral supply chains. It encourages collaboration between governments, industries, and reputed mining companies. Altmin’s project will mark the first major critical minerals transaction between Brazil and India, reinforcing the BRICS framework and deepening South-South cooperation. Upstream integration of lithium refining will also enhance the Make in India vision by enabling large-scale production of competitively priced lithium-ion batteries, meeting the country’s rising demand.

Breaking China’s Stronghold

China currently dominates global lithium refining. With the MSP listing, Altmin gains access to advanced lithium refining technologies and resources. “Altmin’s inclusion in the MSP marks a milestone for India’s clean energy journey,” said Anjani Sri Mourya Sunkavalli, Founder and MD of Altmin. “This milestone puts us on the right path to building a self-reliant critical minerals ecosystem and accelerating our transition towards a sustainable, green future,” Sunkavalli added.

Strategic Refinery Acquisition in Brazil

Leveraging its new position, Altmin has acquired a lithium refinery and proprietary refining technology in Brazil. The company also plans to set up refineries closer to home in India. Notably, the Brazilian technology is the only lithium refining process outside China. It converts spodumene ore into Lithium Carbonate Equivalent (Li₂CO₃ and LiOH) across technical, pharmaceutical, battery, and nuclear grades.

A Turning Point for India’s Energy Security

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, the development is a significant step in breaking China’s monopoly over lithium refining. It strengthens India’s critical minerals ecosystem and supports the country’s clean energy ambitions. It also ensures greater resilience in the global supply chain for electric mobility and sustainable technologies.