In a significant diplomatic development, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva held high level talks in New Delhi to strengthen cooperation in critical minerals and rare earth elements. The discussions reflect a shared commitment to deepening economic and strategic ties between the two growing global powers.
Brazil holds the second largest reserves of rare earth elements in the world. These minerals are essential for modern technologies such as electric vehicles, solar panels, smartphones, jet engines and guided missiles. With China dominating global rare earth production, countries like India are actively seeking diversified and reliable supply chains. Strengthening collaboration with Brazil offers India improved access to raw materials that are vital for its expanding manufacturing and clean energy sectors.
Officials confirmed that both leaders are expected to sign a memorandum on critical minerals and explore measures to enhance bilateral trade. Trade between the two nations crossed 15 billion dollars in 2025, and both sides have set an ambitious target of 20 billion dollars by 2030. Brazil remains India’s largest trading partner in Latin America, exporting sugar, crude oil, vegetable oils, cotton and iron ore. Rising infrastructure and industrial growth in India have further increased demand for Brazilian iron ore.
According to experts from the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, India’s engagement with Brazil complements its partnerships with the United States, France and the European Union, combining technology access with resource security. The leaders are also discussing global economic challenges, especially after recent US tariffs in 2025 affected both economies.
Additionally, Brazilian aerospace company Embraer and India’s Adani Group recently announced plans to manufacture aircraft in India, signaling expanding industrial cooperation. The visit is expected to inject fresh energy into the evolving India Brazil strategic partnership.
