India, Myanmar Strengthen Rare Earth Mining Partnership

Synopsis: India and Myanmar are strengthening cooperation in rare earth mining to diversify critical mineral supplies, reduce dependence on China, and support India's clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and defence sectors through resilient supply chains.

There is increased collaboration between India and Myanmar in the field of rare earth minerals, as India tries to look for alternative suppliers in order to diversify and lessen reliance on China, which is the leading processor of rare earth metals across the globe. This collaboration is a result of India's strategic move to gain access to reliable mineral sources necessary for EVs, renewable technology, electronics, and defense production.

In the past two years, the partnership has been progressing through a number of engagements at the leadership level and also through technical exchanges. As mentioned by the Indian Ambassador to Myanmar, Abhay Thakur, there have been two delegations from India which have visited Myanmar in December 2024 and February 2026 in order to explore potential areas for cooperation relating to rare earths and critical minerals. The matter is also being highlighted during the recent visit of Myanmar President, Min Aung Hlaing, to India.

Also read: Jaishankar Urges China on Border Peace, Trade Access

Myanmar is home to some of the most substantial deposits of rare earth elements, especially in Kachin State, which contributes a fair proportion of these resources to the global output. The rare earths are essential raw materials for the production of permanent magnets that are used in the production of electric cars, windmills, advanced technology products, and defense equipment. Through closer cooperation with Myanmar, India hopes to create a reliable source of these critical resources.

Myanmar possesses one of the largest deposits of rare earths, particularly in the state of Kachin where it produces quite a good share of rare earths into the global production of rare earths. Rare earths play a significant role as raw material for the production of permanent magnets, which find application in the production of electric cars, wind turbines, hi-tech items, and military items. India seeks to establish close collaboration with Myanmar in order to ensure a consistent supply of rare earths.

Some Indian companies who are taking part in this project include IREL (India) Ltd., NTPC Mining, Himadri Specialty, Oceanic Sands, PrNd Metal & Magnets, and Jai Puri Holdings. These talks are likely to be helpful in terms of exploration, estimation, and developing supply chains for rare earth minerals. It has been reported that private companies have been engaged in the task of examining mineral samples and logistical considerations for moving rare earth minerals from mining areas of Myanmar.

Also read: Industry Reacts: Budget Sparks Growth in Manufacturing & Tech

The closer relationship is in keeping with India's policy of increasing self-reliance in strategic minerals through its Aatmanirbhar Bharat program. With the demand for rare earth minerals on the rise, having reliable sources has become important to aid India’s industrialization and technological development, including its transition to renewable energy. The improved relationship with Myanmar will help ensure that India achieves resource security and helps strengthen economic relations between the two countries.