India Secures Copper Exploration Block in Zambia to Meet Rising Demand

The Government of India has acquired a 9,000 sq. km block in Zambia for copper and cobalt exploration, aiming to support India’s clean energy and EV battery sectors. Zambia is the seventh largest copper producer globally, and the rising demand for copper is linked to growth in electric vehicle batteries and clean energy technologies. India’s domestic copper production has declined, making international collaborations vital for its future supply needs.

The Government of India has secured a significant 9,000 sq. km block in Zambia for the exploration of copper and cobalt. This strategic initiative aims to support India’s clean energy sector, particularly its electric vehicle (EV) battery industries, under the guidance of the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Zambia, a landlocked nation in Southern Africa, is known for being rich in critical minerals such as copper, cobalt, nickel, and uranium, which are essential for modern industry.

Zambia’s geographical landscape includes notable features such as the Zambezi River, Kafue River, and Luangwa River, while its mountain terrains feature the Nyika Plateau and Mafinga Hills. It borders several countries, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia, contributing to its diverse mineral resources.

The country holds the distinction of being the seventh largest copper producer in the world, trailing behind Chile, the leading global producer of copper. The increasing demand for copper is primarily driven by the growth of electric vehicle batteries and clean energy technologies, which require substantial copper resources. This burgeoning demand is further fueled by infrastructure development, defense needs, and advanced electronics, raising concerns of a projected supply shortage by 2035.

India’s domestic copper production has seen an 8% decline since the fiscal year 2018-19. Within the nation, Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL) remains the sole government-owned copper producer. Key mining locations in India include the Malanjkhand open-pit copper mine in Madhya Pradesh, the Khetri underground copper mine in Rajasthan, and the historic Singhbhum belt in Jharkhand, which is recognized as one of the oldest copper-producing regions in the country.

India’s acquisition of the copper exploration block in Zambia underscores its commitment to securing vital minerals to meet the rising global demand for copper, particularly for clean energy and electric vehicles. As the country’s domestic production remains constrained, these international ventures are essential for ensuring future supply and supporting technological advancements in energy. Zambia’s rich mineral resources, especially in copper, position it as a key player in the global market, driven by increasing demand and projected supply constraints.

Original Source: www.insightsonindia.com