India’s private miners are expanding into Africa’s graphite, cobalt, lithium, tin, tantalum and tungsten sectors. This emerging network can strengthen mineral security
The government should treat private miners as strategic partners, offering diplomatic backing, help with host governments and stronger links with Indian manufacturers
China’s dominance extends beyond mining to processing: 77% of cobalt, 91% of graphite, 92% of rare earths and 65% of lithium are processed there
India is 100% import-dependent for lithium, cobalt and nickel, while 25% of graphite needs are imported. Diversifying supply sources is therefore essential
Acquiring mineral assets is only the first step. India must make domestic refining competitive and adapt existing infrastructure to process critical minerals
Mineral security requires domestic and overseas mining, processing and refining, backed by recycling of batteries, electronics, industrial waste and mine waste