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China’s Rare-Earth Rules Slow Down India’s EV Race

By Nandini Gupta
3 Min Read
Highlights
  • China’s new rules make it harder to get rare-earth materials needed for EVs.
  • Indian automakers are waiting for licenses, while US and EU firms are getting approvals.
  • India is holding talks with China and planning to make these materials locally.
  • The goal is clear: less dependence on China, more control at home.

What China Did?
On April 4, 2025, China made new rules to control how it exports rare-earth materials. These include metals like dysprosium, neodymium, and samarium — key to making electric motors, chips, and even defense tools.
Now, companies need special export licenses and must prove exactly how they’ll use them. This gives China more power over who gets these materials.

How It’s Hurting India
India depends a lot on China for these rare-earths — especially for its fast-growing EV industry.

  • Almost 90% of rare-earth magnets are made in China.
  • Indian companies have applied for licenses, but none have been approved.
  • Even big names like Maruti Suzuki are warning of delays in EV production.
  • Meanwhile, US and German auto companies have gotten approval — but their India units are still waiting.
  • Indian industry groups (like SIAM and ACMA) are asking the government for help to speed things up.

China Helps Some, Blocks Others
China is giving licenses to some global firms:

  • Companies working with GM, Ford, and Stellantis got approvals.
  • A new “green channel” makes it easier for European companies to get rare-earths.
  • But China still checks how these materials are used and keeps tight control over the quantity.

How India Is Responding
India is taking several steps to fight the shortage:

  • The Prime Minister’s Office and key ministries are planning talks with China.
  • The Health Ministry is trying to make it easier to get license approvals.
  • India is also pushing for local production of rare-earth magnets.
  • A national policy called the Critical Mineral Mission may offer financial help for this.

What This Means for the Future

For India’s EV Market
If this delay continues, it could slow down production and force companies to shift factories elsewhere.

For the Global Market
China is giving limited relief, but still controls the flow — showing why the world needs more supply options.

For Indian Policy
India’s mix of diplomacy and domestic planning shows it wants to break free from reliance on China for critical raw materials.

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