India Strengthens Rare Earth Cooperation with Central Asia, Japan Amid China Supply Risks

India is actively working to develop its rare earth element (REE) mining and refining capabilities to reduce dependence on China, which has imposed export restrictions impacting global supply chains. The Indian government is engaging diplomatically with China to ensure supply chain predictability while simultaneously seeking to build strategic inventories, accelerate domestic production, and explore alternative suppliers, including through partnerships with Central Asian countries. Recent dialogues between India and Central Asia have emphasized cooperation in exploration, mining, processing, and supply of critical minerals, with expert exchanges and potential fiscal incentives to boost domestic manufacturing. Additionally, India and Japan are enhancing their strategic partnership by focusing on securing supply chains for critical minerals, recognizing their importance for clean energy and economic security. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a resolved trade deal with China involving rare earth minerals supply to the U.S., alongside educational exchange agreements, reflecting ongoing geopolitical negotiations around these critical resources. Together, these developments illustrate a multipronged approach by India and its partners to strengthen supply chain resilience and economic competitiveness in the rare earth sector amid global shifts in resource diplomacy.