NMDC Advances Global Push for Critical Minerals; Opens Dubai Office to Tap Strategic Assets

Mumbai, 2 July 2025: In a decisive step toward securing India’s critical mineral supply chain, state-run mining major NMDC has announced a strategic expansion plan involving global acquisitions and the opening of a new office in Dubai. The initiative aligns with India’s clean energy transition and the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM), positioning NMDC to play a key role in ensuring sustainable access to vital resources like lithium, cobalt, and copper.

NMDC Sets Sights on Global Mineral Assets to Fuel India’s Clean Energy Vision

As India accelerates its shift towards clean energy, NMDC is proactively seeking to acquire mineral assets vital for emerging technologies. Chairman and Managing Director Amitava Mukherjee confirmed the company is evaluating ten strategic mineral blocks across Africa, Australia, and South America.

These minerals—such as antimony, lithium, cobalt, and copper—are essential components in the production of solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems. Their acquisition is crucial for India’s ambition to reduce reliance on imports and establish itself as a major player in the global green energy supply chain.

Dubai Office Inauguration Signals NMDC’s International Growth Strategy

Underscoring its intent to integrate into international markets, NMDC has opened a new office in Dubai. This development not only strengthens the company’s global footprint but also enhances access to international investment and trade opportunities.

“Dubai represents a gateway to global opportunity. With our expansion, we are revolutionising our approach to mineral development,” said Mukherjee. The office was inaugurated earlier this week by Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy, signalling strong government backing for NMDC’s global ambitions.

India’s Strategic Mineral Agenda Backed by NMDC’s Overseas Drive

Operating under the Ministry of Steel and headquartered in Hyderabad, NMDC currently contributes 17–20% of India’s total iron ore output. The company’s international strategy comes in response to the Indian government’s 2023 declaration of 30 critical minerals vital to national interests, including lithium, cobalt, gallium, and bismuth.

By aligning its international exploration and acquisition efforts with the National Critical Mineral Mission, NMDC aims to secure long-term access to these resources, thereby reinforcing India’s position in the global critical minerals value chain.

This expansion marks a significant transformation in NMDC’s operational landscape, moving beyond domestic iron ore production to embrace a diversified, forward-looking mineral strategy that supports both national interests and global competitiveness.

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