India Expands Global Critical Minerals Partnerships to Cut China Dependence

India is stepping up efforts to secure critical minerals from across the world as part of a long-term strategy to reduce dependence on China and strengthen its energy and industrial future. The government is currently in discussions with countries such as Brazil, Canada, France, and the Netherlands to build partnerships in the exploration, extraction, processing, and recycling of key minerals. These talks are being led by the Ministry of Mines and reflect India’s growing focus on supply chain security.

Critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel and rare earth elements are essential for modern technologies. They are used in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, renewable energy systems such as solar panels and wind turbines, electronics, defence equipment, and advanced manufacturing. As India moves ahead with its clean energy transition and electric mobility goals, demand for these minerals is expected to rise sharply in the coming years.

At present, China dominates a large part of the global supply chain for many critical minerals, especially rare earth processing and lithium refining. This concentration creates strategic risks for countries that rely heavily on imports. Export restrictions and geopolitical tensions in recent years have further highlighted the need for diversified supply sources. By engaging with multiple mineral-rich countries, India aims to reduce this vulnerability and secure stable long-term access to essential raw materials.

The discussions with Brazil, Canada, France, and the Netherlands focus not only on mining but also on technology sharing and value-chain development. India is keen to gain access to advanced mineral processing technologies, which are crucial for converting raw ore into usable materials for batteries and high-tech industries. Securing raw minerals alone is not enough; building refining and processing capacity is equally important for long-term industrial growth.

Canada is emerging as a key partner in this effort. Talks between the two countries are at an advanced stage, and broader cooperation in minerals, uranium, and clean energy is expected to be discussed during high-level visits. Brazil is also an important player because of its strong reserves of lithium and other minerals. France and the Netherlands offer potential collaboration in processing technology, sustainability practices, and recycling systems.

India’s global outreach builds on earlier agreements signed with countries such as Australia, Argentina, Germany and Japan. It is also in discussions with Peru and Chile, both known for their lithium resources. This wider diplomatic push aligns with global efforts by major economies to diversify critical mineral supply chains and reduce over-reliance on any single country.

At the same time, India is strengthening its domestic capabilities. The Union Budget 2026 announced the creation of Rare Earth Corridors in states like Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. These corridors aim to develop integrated ecosystems covering mining, processing, and manufacturing. By combining international partnerships with domestic development, India hopes to build a complete value chain within the country over time.

However, mining projects are long-term investments. From exploration to commercial production, projects can take five to seven years or more. This means the current deals are strategic moves designed to secure future supply rather than provide immediate relief. Still, early action is crucial because global competition for critical minerals is increasing rapidly as countries accelerate their energy transition plans.

Overall, India’s push for global critical minerals partnerships marks an important shift in its economic and strategic policy. By diversifying supply sources, investing in domestic processing, and building international alliances, India is laying the foundation for energy security, industrial growth, and reduced dependence on China. As demand for electric vehicles, renewable energy, and advanced technology rises, securing critical minerals will remain central to India’s long-term development strategy.