New Delhi: India is holding talks with several countries to secure long term access to critical minerals that are essential for clean energy, electric vehicles and advanced technologies.
According to sources cited by Reuters, India is in discussions with Brazil, Canada, France and Netherlands to build cooperation across the entire supply chain of critical minerals. These talks cover exploration, mining, processing and recycling of minerals such as lithium and rare earth elements.
The move is part of a broader effort by India to reduce its dependence on imports from China, which currently dominates global processing and refining of many critical minerals. Indian officials say securing alternative sources and advanced processing technology is crucial for the country’s energy transition and industrial growth.
Officials familiar with the talks said the proposed agreements are likely to follow the framework of a recent cooperation pact signed between India and Germany. That agreement focuses not only on raw material supply but also on processing, recycling and joint investments in third countries.
Canada is seen as a key partner due to its large mineral reserves and advanced mining technology. Sources indicated that further progress could be made during an upcoming visit by the Canadian prime minister to India, where energy and minerals cooperation is expected to be high on the agenda.
India has also been stepping up engagement with other global partners, including the United States and the European Union, as countries compete to secure stable and reliable supplies of minerals needed for batteries, renewable energy systems and electronics.
Analysts say India’s outreach reflects a wider global shift, with governments increasingly treating critical minerals as a strategic priority tied to economic security and geopolitics.