What's Happening?
India and Canada have agreed to enhance their cooperation in critical minerals, clean mobility, battery manufacturing, and sustainable industrial development. This decision follows high-level bilateral talks in New Delhi between India's Union Minister
for Heavy Industries and Steel, H D Kumaraswamy, and Canadian Minister of Natural Resources, Tim Hodgson. The discussions were part of India's Viksit Bharat@2047 vision and its commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2070. Minister Kumaraswamy emphasized India's growth as a global manufacturing hub, particularly in the automobile and electric mobility sectors. Minister Hodgson acknowledged India's leadership in battery technologies and expressed Canada's willingness to share advanced battery technologies. Canada is ready to support India's needs for lithium, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements, while seeking greater access to Indian markets for Canadian firms. Both countries discussed frameworks for joint work in battery cells, critical mineral supply chains, and sustainable manufacturing processes. A high-level Indian delegation is set to attend the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada Convention in Toronto in March 2026, where the first Canada-India Critical Minerals Annual Dialogue will occur.
Why It's Important?
The strengthened partnership between India and Canada in critical minerals and clean manufacturing is significant for several reasons. It aligns with global efforts to transition to sustainable energy sources and reduce carbon emissions. By collaborating on battery technologies and critical minerals, both countries can enhance their capabilities in electric mobility, which is crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This partnership also opens up new market opportunities for Canadian firms in India, potentially boosting economic growth and job creation in both countries. Furthermore, it supports India's ambition to become a global manufacturing hub, particularly in the electric vehicle sector, which is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. The collaboration could also lead to advancements in sustainable manufacturing processes, contributing to global environmental goals.
What's Next?
The next steps involve formalizing the critical minerals cooperation between India and Canada in the coming weeks. The upcoming Canada-India Critical Minerals Annual Dialogue in March 2026 will be a key event where both countries will discuss further collaboration. This dialogue will likely focus on specific projects and initiatives to enhance critical mineral supply chains and battery technology development. Additionally, both countries may explore opportunities for joint research and development in next-generation battery technologies. The outcomes of these discussions could shape future policies and investments in the clean energy sector, influencing global trends in sustainable industrial development.
