India-Zambia Mineral Talks Hit Roadblock Over Mining Rights

Talks between India and Zambia over securing critical mineral resources have stalled due to uncertainty around mining rights, according to sources. India had been allocated a large area to explore cobalt and copper deposits, but progress has slowed as Zambia has yet to provide clear assurances on extraction rights.

India had already sent geological teams to survey the region and collect samples, with plans to involve private companies after completing a multi-year exploration phase. However, without firm guarantees from Lusaka, the future of the project remains unclear, even as New Delhi seeks to revive negotiations.

The delay highlights India’s growing urgency to secure supplies of key minerals like cobalt and copper, driven by rising demand in sectors such as electric vehicles and electronics. With imports increasing—especially after the closure of Vedanta Ltd’s Sterlite Copper plant—India continues to explore partnerships across Africa and other resource-rich regions.