India Presses Chile for Lithium, Copper in Trade Pact

India is intensifying efforts to secure concrete commitments from Chile regarding critical mineral supplies, including copper and lithium, as negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) progress towards a year-end conclusion.

Chile, a global leader in copper and lithium production, is reportedly seeking to prioritize cooperation on supply chains and value-added products rather than granting preferential access to raw materials. India, however, views preferential access as crucial for diversifying its supply of minerals essential for sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy.

This divergence on critical mineral access has become a persistent sticking point. Chile has indicated that certain preferences requested by India are not feasible under its current legal framework. India views critical minerals as a key balancing element in the proposed pact, especially as it opens its substantial domestic market to Chile.

The discussions occur amidst growing commercial ties, including a November 2025 agreement between Chilean miner Codelco and Adani Enterprises subsidiary Kutch Copper for joint copper project development. Trade between the nations has seen significant growth, with India's exports to Chile valued at $1.41 billion in 2025 and imports reaching $3.97 billion.