India Canada Critical Minerals Cooperation Strengthens Clean Mobility And Battery Manufacturing

On January 29, 2026, India Canada critical minerals cooperation took a significant step forward as the Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, India, held bilateral discussions with the Canadian Minister of Natural Resources to expand collaboration in clean mobility, advanced manufacturing, and strategic mineral resources.

Focus on Critical Minerals and Battery Manufacturing

The talks highlighted India’s USD 2 billion incentive programme aimed at building indigenous Advanced Chemistry Cells capabilities. This initiative is designed to reduce import dependence and strengthen domestic battery manufacturing for electric mobility and energy storage applications. Canada conveyed its readiness to support India’s requirements for key materials such as lithium, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements. The Canadian side also expressed willingness to share advanced battery technologies that can accelerate India’s clean mobility ambitions.

Manufacturing, R&D, and Supply Chain Collaboration

Discussions covered multiple areas across the battery ecosystem, including cell and component manufacturing, next-generation battery research and development, and the creation of resilient critical mineral supply chains. Testing, certification infrastructure, and sustainable manufacturing practices were also part of the dialogue. NMDC is exploring coal reserves in Canada to support India’s steel manufacturing capacity, aligning raw material security with long-term industrial growth. Both sides agreed to continue technical consultations and industry-level engagements to translate these discussions into concrete projects and partnerships that reinforce India Canada critical minerals cooperation across the mobility and manufacturing sectors.