India Proposes Collaboration With Canada On Critical Minerals And Processing

India has signaled its intent to deepen economic ties with Canada by proposing collaboration in the critical minerals sector. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, during his address at the India-Canada Business Forum, underscored the strategic importance of minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements, which are vital for clean energy technologies, electric vehicles, and advanced manufacturing.  

Goyal emphasized that India, with its growing industrial base and commitment to sustainability, can serve as a trusted partner in both extraction and processing of critical minerals. He noted that collaboration with Canada, which possesses abundant reserves, could help both nations strengthen supply chain resilience and reduce dependence on a few dominant global players.  

Key highlights from the announcement include  

• India has offered Canada collaboration in mining and processing of critical minerals.  
• The focus is on minerals essential for clean energy, EVs, and advanced manufacturing.  
• Piyush Goyal highlighted India’s role as a reliable partner in sustainable resource management.  
• Canada’s reserves of lithium, cobalt, and nickel make it a strategic partner for India.  
• The collaboration aims to build resilient supply chains and reduce global dependency risks.  
• India is also exploring opportunities to expand refining and processing capacities domestically.  
• The proposal aligns with India’s broader push for energy transition and self-reliance.  
• The India-Canada Business Forum served as the platform for this announcement.  
• Both nations are expected to explore joint ventures and technology-sharing agreements.  
• The initiative reflects India’s growing focus on securing critical resources for future industries.  

This proposal marks a significant step in India’s global economic diplomacy, positioning the country as a proactive player in the critical minerals ecosystem. By partnering with Canada, India aims to secure resources vital for its energy transition while offering Canadian firms access to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.  

Sources: Economic Times, Business Standard, Mint, The Hindu