India Eyes Chile Lithium, Copper Deal to Boost Clean Energy Push

• India aims to secure steady lithium and copper supplies from Chile, supporting clean energy and industrial growth goals.
• The India-Chile CEPA will enhance commodity security, trade, and India’s role in global energy transition supply chains.
• Negotiations for the agreement start late May 2025, focusing on minerals and renewable energy collaboration.

India could achieve a stable supply of lithium and copper by furthering future trade relations with Chile in fulfilling its clean energy ambitions and industrial growth says experts.

Considering the rapid growth of India's industry and the transition to cleaner energy resources, essential minerals are soon expected to have a growing demand. Lithium and copper are essential building blocks to achieve India's clean energy ambitions and improvement of India's manufacturing sector and in building resilient infrastructure.

Chile is the world's leading producer of lithium and copper, so it is a strategic trade partner. Furthermore, pursuing this goal fits into India's broader ambitions of energy security and enhancing its electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem.

“The India-Chile CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) enhances India's commodity security, export competitiveness, and access to future minerals,” said Ajay Kedia, Director at Kedia Commodities in Mumbai.

Copper is vital for India, especially in the electric vehicle( EV) market, renewable energy frameworks and electrical infrastructure. As the EV market continues to expand, copper is increasingly being used in batteries, motors, wiring, and charging systems.

Also Read: India and Argentina Sign MoU for Lithium Exploration & Mining India's dependence on a consistent provision of these resources is evident in its industrial operations. Domestic producers in the EV, battery, energy storage and electrical equipment industries are ramping up production to support clean energy goals. Copper continues to be a critical component for a growing number of wires and cables, automotive systems, and electrical transmission systems.

Ajay Kedia said that will ensure a secure mineral supply and also improve trade across Latin America through the CEPA would allow India to reinforce its participation in the international supply chain and create lasting economic development.

 “It strengthens India's position in the global supply chain for energy transition, offers new markets for Indian industries, and aligns with long-term national goals like Make in India and green mobility,” he added.

Talks between India and Chile under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement will be entering a phase of negotiations. With the terms of reference confirmed on May 9, negotiations are expected to commence by May 26.

The agreement is anticipated to boost trade collaboration, especially in vital areas such as minerals and renewable energy.