New Delhi: MOIL Limited, India’s largest manganese ore producer under the Ministry of Steel, has officially begun exporting manganese ore as a State Trading Enterprise (STE), marking a significant shift in India’s mineral export strategy. The move is expected to boost the country’s mineral trade efficiency while capitalizing on surplus low-grade ore reserves.
First Consignment Dispatched to Indonesia
The company successfully dispatched its first export consignment of 54,600 tonnes of manganese ore fines to Indonesia from the Visakhapatnam port on August 22, 2025. This shipment represents the start of a new operational phase for MOIL, following the Government of India’s decision to designate the company as the STE for exporting manganese ore with less than 46% Mn (manganese) grade.
Read also: MOIL Sets September 19 as Record Date for FY25 Final Dividend; AGM Scheduled on September 30
Policy-Driven Trade Mechanism
In line with the National Trade Policy, MOIL has established a structured mechanism for FY 2024-25 to handle exports of manganese ore. Under this system, all such ore shipments from India are now routed exclusively through MOIL, ensuring better control, transparency, and value realization.
The export arrangement operates on a back-to-back basis with domestic suppliers, enabling MOIL to act as an intermediary that efficiently channels surplus ore to global markets. This approach not only streamlines the trade process but also ensures that domestic industry interests are safeguarded.
Strategic Importance of the Move
India currently has excess availability of low-grade manganese ore, particularly in the 25% Mn category, which exceeds domestic consumption requirements. This surplus had limited commercial utility within the country due to the higher-grade preferences of domestic industries, especially steel manufacturers.
By initiating exports, MOIL is positioning India to become a key player in the global manganese supply chain, particularly in emerging markets such as Southeast Asia. The move is also expected to contribute significantly to foreign exchange earnings, reduce resource wastage, and promote optimal utilization of the country’s mineral wealth.
Leadership Speaks: MOIL’s Commitment to Global Expansion
Commenting on this strategic development, Ajit Kumar Saxena, Chairman and Managing Director of MOIL, congratulated the team for executing the company’s first export consignment under the STE mandate. He emphasized the importance of efficient operations and informed strategies in expanding MOIL’s international trade activities.
“This is a proud moment for MOIL and for the Indian mining sector. The successful launch of our export operations marks a step toward greater global integration and strategic trade expansion,” said Saxena.
MOIL’s Role in India’s Steel Ecosystem
Headquartered in Nagpur, MOIL plays a critical role in supporting India’s steel industry, as manganese is an essential raw material in steelmaking. As the country’s largest producer of manganese ore, MOIL has long contributed to meeting domestic industrial needs and is now set to leverage its position in international markets.
This export initiative is expected to unlock new business opportunities, improve the company’s financial performance, and align with the government’s broader vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) through effective resource management and international trade.
Looking Ahead
As MOIL continues to develop its export capabilities, future consignments are likely to target other international markets, expanding India’s footprint in the global manganese supply chain. The success of this initiative could also set a precedent for similar export frameworks for other mineral commodities with surplus availability in India.
About MOIL
MOIL Limited, a Mini Ratna Category-I PSU under the Ministry of Steel, is India’s largest producer of manganese ore. Headquartered in Nagpur, the company operates multiple mines across Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. With a focus on expansion, sustainability, and value creation, MOIL continues to play a crucial role in supporting India’s steel sector and allied industries.
