Archive · 13 Jun 2025
India Steps Up to Challenge China's REE Dominance
India wants to be less dependent on China for important minerals called rare earth elements (REEs).
These are used to make many things, like cars and electronics.
India has a lot of these minerals underground, the third most in the world.
However, they need better technology to get them out and make them useful.
The government is working to improve mining, find partners, and develop its own projects.
They are also looking for help from other countries.
India aims to reduce reliance on China's rare earth element (REE) exports.
India has the world's third-largest REE reserves but produces less than 1% globally.
The Indian government is exploring expanding domestic mining and refining through partnerships.
Key challenges include weak refining infrastructure and lack of technical talent.
The National Critical Mineral Mission (2025) focuses on REE self-reliance.
- Who
- India, its government, and relevant industries.
- What
- India is intensifying efforts to harness its own rare earth element (REE) reserves.
- When
- Ongoing initiative.
- Where
- India, and globally.
- Why
- To reduce dependence on China for REEs.
- Reserves
- Third largest globally (6.9 million tonnes)
- Current Production
- Less than 1% globally
- Government Initiative
- National Critical Mineral Mission (2025)
- Challenges
- Weak refining infrastructure, lack of technical talent
- Key Player
- Indian Rare Earths Ltd (IREL)
