India looks to Myanmar for critical minerals
Agencies New Delhi Critical minerals have emerged as key drivers of modern economic growth, supporting the green energy transition and technological development. Their importance t...
India is prioritising Myanmar for access to critical minerals crucial to modern economic growth, green energy, and technological advancements. Rare earth elements, vital for semiconductors, smartphones, and electric vehicle batteries, are driving demand. Recognising their significance, India launched the National Critical Mineral Mission to incorporate these minerals into its development plans.
This mission aims to support the nation's green transition through applications in solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicle batteries. Additionally, these minerals play a crucial role in national security, supporting advanced defence technologies.
To secure reliable supplies, India is engaging in bilateral partnerships and exploring Myanmar as a potential source. Myanmar is now the world's third-largest producer of rare earth minerals, a position that has made it increasingly important to India. However, accessing these resources in Myanmar involves complex challenges, including geopolitical issues, logistical hurdles, and environmental concerns. Furthermore, China's dominant position in mineral processing complicates India's efforts.
In June 2026, India and Myanmar signed agreements to deepen cooperation in critical and rare minerals, trade, security, and connectivity. These high-level talks underscored the longstanding ties between the two nations. Since then, India’s Ambassador to Myanmar has highlighted the increased attention given to cooperation in rare earths and critical minerals.
Despite these efforts, several challenges persist, such as inadequate infrastructure for transporting raw materials from remote, conflict-affected regions and the presence of ethnic armed groups.
India’s approach involves sustained diplomatic engagement and policies aligned with Myanmar’s evolving political landscape. While reducing supply-chain risks in the face of China's dominance in critical minerals remains a priority, significant challenges in mineral access and logistics remain.
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