INDUSTRY
India, US clinch framework agreement on critical minerals, rare earths
- IBJ Bureau
- May 27, 2026
India and the US have signed a major framework agreement on critical minerals and rare earths during US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to New Delhi.
The agreement marks a significant step in strengthening strategic and economic ties between the two countries.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Mr Rubio have signed the Framework on Securing of Supply in the Mining and Processing of Critical Minerals and Rare Earths, aimed at building resilient supply chains independent of China’s dominance in the sector.
The agreement covers the entire supply chain ecosystem, including mining, processing, refining, recycling, joint financing and investment cooperation.
The pact comes amid growing global concerns over dependence on China for rare earth processing and critical minerals essential for semiconductors, electric vehicle batteries, advanced telecommunication systems, defence equipment and clean energy technologies.
The framework traces its roots to the February 2025 summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump in Washington, where both leaders identified secure critical mineral supply chains as a strategic priority.
India is estimated to possess significant reserves of lithium, cobalt, titanium and other critical minerals and has been actively seeking foreign investments to boost domestic processing capabilities.
Industry experts note that the framework represents a major strategic step.
However, they add that successful implementation will of the agreement will require sustained policy coordination, investment support and faster environmental clearances for mining and processing projects.
Report By
View Reporter News