NMDC Limited, India’s top iron ore miner, is planning a strategic expansion into critical mineral blocks overseas. CMD Amitava Mukherjee confirmed that the company is evaluating assets across Africa, Australia, and South America, marking a major diversification move.
Dubai Office as Strategic Launchpad
NMDC recently inaugurated a Dubai office to serve as a global nerve centre. The facility will monitor market developments, conduct due diligence, and liaise with governments and local partners. It plays a critical role in expediting overseas acquisitions for the company.
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Targeting Key Minerals Globally
The company is eyeing high-value minerals: lithium, copper, cobalt, and iron ore in Africa. It’s also exploring coking coal assets in Australia and Indonesia. Mukherjee confirmed NMDC is evaluating 20 to 25 asset proposals, with eleven critical-blocks shortlisted for detailed study.
Collaborating with International Partners
NMDC’s subsidiary, Legacy Iron Ore, has already signed a lithium exploration agreement with Australia’s Hancock Prospecting. Earlier, NMDC and Coal India jointly explored lithium prospects in Chile and Australia under government-led initiatives.
About NMDC
NMDC Limited is a Navratna public sector company under the Ministry of Steel. Based in Hyderabad, it leads India’s iron ore output and operates diamond and magnetite mines. The company is targeting an increase in iron ore production to 55 million tonnes in FY 26 and 100 million tonnes by 2030. NMDC is now diversifying into critical minerals like lithium, copper, cobalt, and coking coal.
Also Read: NMDC Slashes Iron Ore Prices by Up to Rs 600 per Tonne Amid Weak Market Demand
