Archive · 30 Sep 2025
India's Deep Sea Mineral Exploration & Trade Deal with US
India is exploring the deep sea for valuable minerals, specifically Polymetallic Sulphides.
These minerals are rich in metals like copper and gold, essential for modern technology, to boost resource security.
Concurrently, India and the United States are in trade discussions aiming for a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
The US has expanded tariffs, raising questions about the deal.
India is seeking the elimination of tariffs and considering its options if not resolved.
India signed a contract for Polymetallic Sulphides (PMS) exploration in the Indian Ocean.
PMS are rich in metals crucial for high-tech and green technologies.
India is the first country to have two contracts with the ISA for PMS exploration.
The US expanded tariffs to include products impacting India's manufacturers.
India is negotiating with the US for a trade deal and elimination of reciprocal tariffs.
- Who
- India, United States, ISA
- What
- Deep-sea mineral exploration and trade deal discussions
- When
- Ongoing
- Where
- Indian Ocean, India and US
- Why
- Enhance resource security and discuss trade agreements
Indian Position
US Position
Tariffs
Indian Position
India seeks removal of tariffs on its products, especially with steel and aluminum manufacturers affected by tariffs.
US Position
The US has expanded tariffs and has not yet discussed removal of the steel and aluminium tariffs in WTO.
- Focus
- India's Deep-Sea Mineral Exploration in Indian Ocean & US Trade Deal
- Deep-Sea Minerals
- Polymetallic Sulphides (PMS)
- PMS Components
- Copper, zinc, lead, gold, silver and trace elements
- Trade Partner
- United States
- Bilateral Trade
- Nearly $120 billion (FY24)
Sources
India wins second mineral exploration contract in the Indian Ocean: What is this, why it matters
UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on urban noise pollution and significance of India’s deep-sea mineral exploration (Week 122)