Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL), a joint venture company formed by National Aluminium Company Ltd, Hindustan Copper Ltd, and Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Ltd, is actively exploring overseas opportunities in the acquisition of critical mineral assets. The objective of KABIL is to identify, explore, acquire, develop, mine, process, procure, and sell strategic minerals to ensure a steady and resilient supply for the Indian domestic industry. Currently, KABIL is focusing on critical minerals such as Lithium (Li) and Cobalt (Co) with ongoing initiatives in Argentina, Australia, and Chile.
In Argentina, KABIL has secured an Exploration and Development contract with a state-owned company, granting them exclusive rights to explore and develop lithium blocks in the Catamarca Province. The company has initiated the process of obtaining statutory clearances and other necessary activities to commence exploration.
In Australia, KABIL has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Critical Mineral Office (CMO) under the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources (DISER). This partnership aims to conduct joint due diligence and explore investment opportunities in lithium and cobalt mining assets. The collaboration is designed to facilitate long-term investment decisions and ensure a sustainable supply of these critical minerals to India.
In Chile, KABIL has entered into a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with the state-owned company ENAMI for the exploration of brine-type lithium blocks. KABIL is also exploring other countries with rich potential in critical and strategic minerals for long-term investments. Additionally, KABIL has submitted an expression of interest for projects related to the exploration, extraction, and processing of lithium in response to an RFI floated by the Chilean government.
KABIL’s efforts align with the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an initiative aimed at accelerating the development of sustainable critical energy minerals supply chains. MSP partners include several countries and the European Union, working together to ensure high environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards in all supported projects. The MSP aims to promote local value addition and community upliftment, ensuring that all nations benefit from the global clean energy transition.
Cover Photo: AI Generated
