India has moved to secure key mineral supplies by signing a rare earth cooperation deal with Brazil, aiming to cut reliance on China and build a stronger supply chain.

India Signs Rare Earth Pact with Brazil

India has taken an important step to secure access to critical minerals. It signed a rare earth cooperation agreement with Brazil. The main goal is to reduce dependence on China and make supply chains more stable.

The agreement came during talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in New Delhi. After the meeting, Modi said the minerals pact “could potentially lower dependence on China.”

Brazil holds large reserves of rare earth minerals. However, officials said that only 30% of these reserves have been explored so far. This means there is strong potential for further exploration, mining, and processing. Through this partnership, India could gain access to materials that are essential for electronics, clean energy technologies, and defence production.

Broader Push to Deepen Ties

The rare earth deal is part of a wider effort to strengthen ties between the two countries. In total, India and Brazil signed nine agreements. These cover areas such as mining, steel supply chains, technology, and defence cooperation.

Modi highlighted the long-term vision behind the relationship. He said, “We will continue to strengthen this win-win partnership further.” His remarks reflected India’s interest in expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

Lula also described the partnership as strategically important. He said, “India and Brazil are crucial voices at the UN, at the WTO and G20.” He stressed that closer ties would help both nations deal with global economic uncertainty.

Focus on Technology and the Global South

The discussions were not limited to minerals and trade. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to stronger defence cooperation and clean energy partnerships. They also expressed support for advancing the interests of developing nations.

PM Modi underlined this shared objective. He said, “When India and Brazil work together the voice of the Global South becomes stronger and more confident.”

In addition, the two sides discussed cooperation in advanced fields. These include artificial intelligence, semiconductors, blockchain, and supercomputing. Modi described such collaboration as vital for both countries and for the wider Global South.

Trade Target and Visa Relief

India and Brazil have set a clear trade target. They aim to increase bilateral trade to $30 billion by 2030. This shows their intention to expand economic engagement significantly in the coming years.

To support business ties, Brazil announced that it will extend business visas for Indian ordinary passport holders to 10 years. This move is expected to make it easier for companies and professionals from both countries to work together.

Overall, the new agreements signal a stronger strategic and economic partnership. At the same time, they reflect India’s effort to secure critical minerals and reduce its reliance on a single dominant supplier.