The government has initiated discussions with Brazil, Canada, France, and the Netherlands to forge partnerships for the joint exploration, extraction, processing, and recycling of critical minerals, as the country intensifies efforts to secure key raw materials for its clean energy and industrial growth. The talks form part of India’s broader strategy to diversify supply chains and reduce dependence on a limited set of global suppliers.
Focus on Lithium, Rare Earths and Processing Technology
The proposed agreements will primarily target lithium and rare earth elements, which are essential for electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, renewable energy systems, electronics, and advanced manufacturing. In addition to securing raw materials, India is also seeking access to advanced mineral-processing technologies, a crucial step toward strengthening domestic value addition and reducing import dependence. Currently, India relies heavily on China, which dominates global supply chains for several critical minerals and leads in mining and refining technologies. This reliance has prompted policymakers to accelerate partnerships with multiple countries.
Long Timelines Make Overseas Partnerships Crucial
Mining experts caution that critical mineral projects require long gestation periods. From exploration to commercial production, projects can take five to seven years or longer, with many prospects failing to translate into viable mines. Consequently, India views early-stage international collaboration as essential to securing stable, long-term supplies.
Modelled on India–Germany Critical Minerals Pact
Officials indicated that India plans to replicate elements of its critical minerals agreement with Germany, signed earlier this year. That pact covers:
*Exploration and extraction
*Processing and recycling
*Acquisition and development of mineral assets
*Cooperation in third countries
Similar frameworks are under discussion with France, the Netherlands, and Brazil, while an agreement with Canada remains under active consideration.
India Expands Global Outreach for Energy Security
Beyond these four nations, India has already signed critical mineral partnerships with Argentina, Australia, and Japan, and is currently negotiating broader agreements with Peru and Chile. This expanding global engagement aligns with wider international efforts. Recently, G7 finance ministers and other major economies discussed strategies to reduce overdependence on Chinese rare earth supplies.
Critical Minerals Key to India’s Energy Transition
In 2023, India identified over 20 minerals, including lithium, as “critical” to support its energy transition, infrastructure expansion, and manufacturing growth. As demand for EV batteries, clean power technologies, and advanced electronics rises sharply, securing reliable mineral supplies has become central to India’s economic and climate strategy. As reported by reuters.com, by strengthening overseas partnerships and building domestic capabilities, India aims to create a resilient and diversified critical minerals ecosystem that supports long-term energy security and industrial competitiveness.
