India and US Sign Framework on Critical Minerals and Rare Earths

India and the United States have signed a framework to jointly mine, refine and recycle critical minerals and rare earth elements. The agreement aims to secure the supply of these materials, which are essential for electronics, electric vehicles, defence equipment and clean-energy technology.

The move comes after China restricted exports of rare earth magnets in April 2025, which disrupted global supply chains. Because a single country dominates the processing of rare earths, many nations including India have been looking to build alternative and more reliable sources.

Under the framework, the two countries will cooperate on mining, processing and the recycling of mineral scrap. They will also work together on financing projects in this sector. This is part of India’s wider push to reduce its dependence on imports for strategic raw materials.

For India, securing critical minerals supports its goals in electric mobility, semiconductor manufacturing and renewable energy. It also strengthens economic and strategic ties with the United States at a time when supply-chain security has become a global priority.